[RBJamez]

To me, Ajahn Sujato sounds like he is arguing to establish a literal dogmatism based on his literal readings of the suttas & the Vinaya.

Many individuals may have their sectarian views, including myself, but my view is they should be regarded merely as such, i.e, "sectarian", even if they do conform with the suttas.

If we are not aware what I am suggesting, I see the Ajahn Brahm perspective is a clinical conformity to the Dhamma-Vinaya, where a heavy boundary is established between the ordained and the householders.

It's just that for a long time I have attended to the Teacher, and to the monks who inspire my heart, but never before have I heard a talk on the Dhamma like this."

"This sort of talk on the Dhamma, householder, is not given to lay people clad in white. This sort of talk on the Dhamma is given to those gone forth."

"In that case, Ven. Sariputta, please let this sort of talk on the Dhamma be given to lay people clad in white. There are clansmen with little dust in their eyes who are wasting away through not hearing [this] Dhamma. There will be those who will understand it."

Anathapindikovada Sutta In our modern age, with its wider experience, challenges & education, monks such as Ajahn Buddhadasa & Ajahn Chah made the decision to break down this traditional distinction between the ordained & the laity and impart the core Dhamma which traditionally was withheld from the laiety. However, the impression I gain, accurately or inaccurately, is Brahm & Sujato have decided to restore it because they believe it is following the Dhamma-Vinaya strictly.

So, although Ajahn Sujato may sound liberal in his views, for me, I sense he may potentially be asserting a very strong dogmatism. For me, his approach is far too intellectual. It is the stuff of PDH thesis rather than the 'experiential' Ajahn Chah tradition.

Kind regards