thumb|upright|Sangha, Luang Prabang, Laos The Sangha was originally established by Gautama Buddha in the fifth century BCE in order to provide a means for those who wish to practice full-time in a direct and highly disciplined way, free from the restrictions and responsibilities of the household life.Robinson et al. (2005). "Buddhist Religions: A Historical Introduction". Fifth Edition. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth/Thomson, p. 36. The Sangha also fulfils the function of preserving the Buddha's original teachings and of providing spiritual support for the Buddhist lay-community. The Sangha has historically assumed responsibility for maintaining the integrity of the doctrine as well as the translation and propagation of the teachings of the Buddha.
thumb|upright|Sangha, Luang Prabang, Laos The Sangha was originally established by Gautama Buddha in the fifth century BCE in order to provide a means for those who wish to practice full-time in a direct and highly disciplined way, free from the restrictions and responsibilities of the household life.Robinson et al. (2005). "Buddhist Religions: A Historical Introduction". Fifth Edition. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth/Thomson, p. 36. The Sangha also fulfils the function of preserving the Buddha's original teachings and of providing spiritual support for the Buddhist lay-community. The Sangha has historically assumed responsibility for maintaining the integrity of the doctrine as well as the translation and propagation of the teachings of the Buddha.