Monk Debates

One skill Buddhist monks in Bhutan (and other countries) learn is the art of debate. One monk will sit on a cushion and for an hour and a half or more, other monks will stand above and start a debate. When a point is being made, the standing monk often winds up and delivers the information by stepping toward the monk while clapping their hands. While the monks are not allowed let their emotions interfere (or grow personally angry) it is often hard to tell while watching the action as an outsider.

In the end, debaters are seen smiling as they are either found wrong or make fun of their opponent.

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