Question

How do you become a Buddhist monk?

Answer 1

Buddhism is a religion over 2,000 years old. It offers a method of overcoming the suffering that is inherent in being. Buddhist monks are those who take it upon themselves to live a life entirely devoted to this goal.

It doesn't take a whole lot to become a monk. You will need to have a basic understanding of Buddhism (which, if you intend to ordain, you will likely have). Otherwise, a sincere intent to practice the Buddhist teachings is all you need.

Part One of Three:
Learning About Buddhism



1

Familiarize yourself with Buddhist teachings. Begin your path to becoming a monk by understanding the basics about Buddhism. Check out books from the library, do research on line, and if possible, take classes from an instructor who has been ordained as a monk. The Buddha doesn't force anyone to believe, but asks disciples to prove the tenants true based on their own investigation of the religion. Here are the fundamentals you should know:Study the Eightfold Path, which is the way to the end of all suffering. The path consists of the right understanding, right speech, right intention, right effort, right mindfulness, right concentration, right action and right livelihood.Learn the four noble truths, which contain the essence of Buddhism. A simple version of the four noble truths is that suffering exists, it arises from attachment to wants, the condition stops when the attachment to desire stops and freedom from suffering is possible through the Eightfold Path.[1]

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2

Join a temple, or sangha, that practices Buddhism. The Buddhist religion is worldwide and temples exist in almost every country. Practicing Buddhism as a layperson will give you valuable insight into what it's like to be part of a Buddhist community, which is central to becoming a monk. You'll want to become a regular part of the community for months, or even years, before you take the next step to become a monk.[2]Check your phone book or look online for a Buddhist center near you.Be an active participant of the temple. Some sanghas offer introductory courses where you can learn more about Buddhism. Others schedule retreats to help you grow in your faith.Not all Buddhist communities are alike. Like other types of religious institutions, some are more traditional, while others have changed with modern times. Find a community that fits with your views and is appealing to you.It may also be helpful to visit Buddhist temples in other cities or even other countries to get a well-rounded view of the Buddhist community.



3

Find a spiritual guide or mentor.Learning from a mentor is a very important first step in becoming a monk. One-on-one instruction allows you to delve deeper into Buddhist teachings and gain a more complete understanding of what will be expected of you as a monk. Begin working with someone who can teach you everything you need to know.[3]To find a mentor, ask people in your Buddhist community for recommendations.Often, a temple will invite Buddhist leaders to come and speak to the group, and this gives you a chance to make contact with potential mentors.

Answer 2

Traditionally, Buddhist ordination comprises a two-step process: an initial (pabbajja) ceremony, in which the candidate becomes a novice (samanera) and later, a second (upasampada) ceremony, in which the candidate becomes a monk (bhikkhu).
Laypeople undergo ordination as a novice (m. Samanera श्रमणेर, f. Samaneri श्रमणेरी, श्रमणेरिका) in a rite known as 'the going forth' (pabbajja). The Pabbajja ceremony is also the preliminary part of higher ordination (upasaṃpadā), raising a novice to a monk.
After taking the complete education and training of a Sramanera, one is eligible to become a Bhiksu. A Bhiksu is a fully ordained member of the Buddhist Sangha.
The ordination procedure for Buddhist monks, begins with the applicant's