Over 2,000 years old, Buddhism is a religion.The method of overcoming the suffering inherent in being is offered by it.Buddhist monks live a life devoted to this goal.It doesn't take a lot to become a monk.If you intend to ordain, you will likely have a basic understanding of Buddhism.A sincere intent to practice the Buddhist teachings is all you need.
Step 1: You should be familiar with Buddhist teachings.
Understand the basics of Buddhism to begin your path to becoming a monk.If you can, check out books from the library, do research on line, and take classes from an instructor who is a monk.The Buddha asks his disciples to prove the tenants true based on their own investigation of the religion.The Eightfold Path is the way to end all suffering.The path is made up of the right understanding, speech, intention, effort, right concentration, and right livelihood.The essence of Buddhism is contained in the four noble truths.The four noble truths are that suffering exists, it arises from attachment to wants, the condition stops when the desire stops and freedom from suffering is possible through the Eightfold Path.
Step 2: Join a temple that practices Buddhism.
There are temples in almost every country of the world.Being a lay person in a Buddhist community will give you insight into what it's like to be a monk.You will want to be a part of the community for a long time before taking the next step.Look online for a Buddhist center near you or check your phone book.You should be an active participant in the temple.If you want to learn more about Buddhism, some sanghas offer introductory courses.retreats help you grow in your faith.Some Buddhist communities are not alike.Some of the religious institutions are more traditional than others.You can find a community that is appealing to you.It is helpful to visit Buddhist temples in other cities or other countries to get a better view of the Buddhist community.
Step 3: Find a mentor or spiritual guide.
The first step in becoming a monk is learning from a mentor.One-on-one instruction allows you to deepen your knowledge of Buddhist teachings and gain a better understanding of what will be expected of you as a monk.Someone can teach you everything you need to know.Ask your Buddhist friends for recommendations for a mentor.You can make contact with potential mentors if the temple invites Buddhist leaders to speak to the group.
Step 4: It's a good idea to spend time meditating.
A conscious effort to change how the mind works is required to become a Buddhist monk.A lot of your day will be spent in meditation.This requires practice.There are different types of meditation in Buddhism, including meditation that focuses on breathing and meditation on the Lamrim.Certain postures can be included in mediation.Two times a day, start with five minutes of meditation.If you can meditate for 15 minutes two times a day, you should increase your meditation time by a few minutes every day.There are monks who meditate for hours at a time.
Step 5: You will need to support yourself for two to three years.
Buddhist monks and nuns do not work a normal everyday job to support themselves, which is why they need to follow the Vinaya, a code of conduct.In some cases the abbey will provide for your basic necessities, but in other cases you'll need to have enough saved to support yourself.
Step 6: It's time to give up your worldly possessions.
Monks live as mendicants, meaning they only have what is required for a very simple quality of life.You will be provided with clothing, sundries, and other items to stay comfortable.Anything that could be considered a luxury item is not allowed.Monks aren't allowed to have items that could inspire jealousy, greed or possessiveness.
Step 7: The Buddhist community will become your family.
Your life will be devoted to your Buddhist community once you join a monastery.Your focus will be on those who need your help, and you will spend your days in service of others.You will not have a lot of contact with your family, and will be encouraged to think of your Buddhist community as a family.Discuss this with your family and let them know what you are going to do.Candidates who are married or have strong relationship ties are not accepted by some monasteries.Single people are more able to devote themselves to the teachings of Buddhism since they don't have outside forces pulling their attention away.
Step 8: Prepare to take a vow of chastity.
Monks don't engage in sexual behavior.Male and female monks are not allowed to talk to one another about things other than business.If you want to find out if you're suited for a chaste life, you need to practice chastity.The idea is that the energy you put into sex is directed to something bigger than yourself.
Step 9: Determine what kind of commitment you want to make.
ordination is supposed to be a lifelong commitment in some traditions.It's perfectly fine to pursue ordination for a limited number of months or years in other traditions.In Tibet, many men complete two or three-month ordinations to develop their spiritual identities before getting married or pursuing careers.If you're interested in joining the monastery, make sure it has the level of commitment you want.It's possible to do a two or three-month ordination if you're not sure.
Step 10: Training can start at an abbey.
If you want to become a monk, you'll have to go to a specific abbey.It is necessary to meet the requirements outlined by the abbey in order to be dained there.An offer to become a monk must be extended by an elder if you are a good candidate.
Step 11: There is anordination ceremony.
Only an ordination monk can perform the ceremony to mark your decision to become a Buddhist.The three Jewels and the five Precepts will be transmitted by the monk.Your Buddhist name will also be given to you.Shin Buddhism has an Affirmation ceremony instead of anordination ceremony.The same purpose is served by the affirmation ceremony.
Step 12: Follow the instructions of your teacher.
If you take part in an ordination ceremony, your teacher will be the monk who led the ceremony.Instructions specific to the monastery you are joining will be sent to you.
Step 13: Take the vows of the Bodhisattva.
A Bodhisattva is a person who devotes his or her life to Buddhism.The vows aim to benefit every human being and seek enlightenment.You can embody your highest ambitions by taking the vows.You will recite them on a regular basis because they commit you to a life of service.