FGD,
I understand you are genuinely trying to get your head around this, however it is obvious that you simply don't understand how our system works. I covered your question in my post above (re pilots who are training, running the simulator etc) but perhaps in a way that you missed, when I added a premium to the base flying cost of a ticket.
Yes, in most operations, the Pilots are guaranteed a minimum number of flying hours pay whether they fly them or not, but I covered that above. Most people fly the minimum or above in a normal operation and so the safety net is not needed. You only get paid for the trips you do.
If there are a significant number of Pilots sitting round not flying then there is something wrong with the management of the company. (Google Qantas).
Oh and with the exception of the safety net, no, you are not earning money when you are not flying.
N