Theravada Ordination: The Path to Monkhood

​What is Theravada Ordination?

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Theravada ordination is the sacred process through which one enters the Buddhist monastic community (Sangha) following the traditions established by the Buddha over 2,500 years ago. This ancient practice continues today in countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, offering individuals a path to dedicate their lives to spiritual practice.

The Journey to Becoming a Monk

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Prerequisites

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• Male, at least 20 years old (for full ordination)

• Free from debt and legal obligations

• Free from communicable diseases

• Permission from parents/spouse if applicable

• Sincere commitment to Buddhist practice

Types of Ordination

1. Temporary Ordination - Common in Thailand and Laos, lasting from a few weeks to several months

2. Novice Ordination (Samanera) - For those under 20 or beginning their monastic journey

3. Full Ordination (Bhikkhu) - Complete monastic vows for those 20 and older

The Ordination Process

Preparation Phase

• Find a suitable monastery accepting ordination candidates

• Contact the abbot or senior monk to express interest

• Study basic Buddhist teachings and practices

• Learn basic Pali chanting required for ceremonies

• Prepare necessary documents (ID, medical certificate)

Pre-Ordination

• Head and eyebrow shaving

• Donning white robes as a preparatory phase

• Learning basic monastic etiquette

• Memorizing essential chants for the ceremony

The Ordination Ceremony

• Requesting acceptance from the Sangha

• Receiving the robes and alms bowl

• Taking refuge in the Triple Gem

• Undertaking the precepts (10 for novices, 227 for fully ordained monks)

• Formal questioning regarding eligibility

• Official acceptance into the Sangha

Life as a Monk

Daily Schedule

• 4:00-4:30 AM: Wake up, personal meditation

• 5:00 AM: Morning chanting and meditation

• 6:15-8:00 AM: Morning meal (optional)

• 9:00 AM-10:30 PM: Chores, study, or meditation

• 11:00-12:00 PM: Lunch (Last meal of the day, no solid food after noon)

• 1:00-7:30 PM: Study, meditation, or monastery duties

• 8:00-9:15 PM: Evening chanting and meditation

• 9:30-10:00 PM: Personal practice or study

• 10:00 PM: Rest

Training and Practice

• Meditation (sitting, walking, and mindfulness)

• Dhamma study (Buddha's teachings)

• Vinaya study (monastic discipline)

• Pali language (traditional language of Buddhist texts)

• Community service and teaching

• Personal mentorship from senior/teaching monks

Monastic Rules

• 227 training rules for fully ordained monks

• Rules governing speech, actions, possessions, and interactions

• Emphasis on simplicity, non-harm, and mindfulness

What to Bring

• Personal toiletries (toothbrush, razor, etc.)

• Minimal clothing (will be replaced by robes)

• Any necessary medications

• Simple sandals

• Offerings for the monastery and teachers

What to Expect

The Nak Training Period

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At our temple, those interested in ordination first enter a preparatory stage where they live at the temple and observe the 8 precepts. This is called the "Nak" training period. During this time, candidates:

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• Live within the temple community

• Follow the 8 precepts (including not eating after noon)

• Learn monastic customs and protocols

• Practice meditation and chanting

• Participate in daily temple activities

• Receive instruction from senior monks

The duration of this training period varies according to each individual's progress. The head monk will assess your readiness for ordination based on your understanding, discipline, and adaptation to monastic life. Some candidates may be ready in days, while others may require months or even years of preparation.

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This period is intentionally challenging, testing your commitment through adjustments to a new lifestyle, potential language barriers, and strict discipline. However, the experience gained during this 8-precept training is invaluable—whether you ultimately proceed to full ordination or apply these principles in your daily lay life.

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Additional Challenges

• Adjusting to the simplicity of monastic life

• Following the many rules and protocols

• Limited food and sleep

• Physical discomfort from sitting meditation

• Cultural and language adjustments for Western practitioners

• Learning to live with minimal possessions

Benefits

• Focused environment for spiritual development

• Freedom from worldly responsibilities

• Guidance from experienced teachers

• Community of like-minded practitioners

• Opportunity for deep self-transformation

• Development of mindfulness and concentration

• Greater understanding of Buddhist philosophy

• Cultivation of patience, resilience, and equanimity

How to Apply

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Contact Wat Pa Lao Buddhadham directly to inquire about ordination opportunities. We provide guidance for both short-term and long-term ordination candidates and can help you prepare for this profound spiritual journey.

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For more information or to schedule a visit to discuss ordination possibilities, please contact our monastery office from the contact us form.