Monk for a Month is a joint effort between individual temples in Northern Thailand and blood Foundation. Together we seek to offer pilgrims a unique opportunity to experience all the riches and rewards of the monastic life in Thailand. We aim to foster meaningful cultural exchange and to provide opportunities for spiritual progression within the Thai Buddhist framework.
buddhist temple
In Thai culture it is generally accepted that, at some point in their lives, males will go through the process of being ordained as monks and spend some time in the temple. A great majority of Thai men have been ordained as monks. This often happens at a young age during school breaks and it is also common for young adults or older men to do the same. Indeed a lot of Thai men will join the monastery more than once during their lifetime. These 'temporary monks' might stay for a period of 3 months or more or as little as 2 weeks. During this time they live the very same life as the regular monks, waking up before dawn to do alms rounds, meditating, chanting, praying, receiving Dhamma and generally studying the tradition. During this time they are formally ordained, their heads are shaved and they wear the traditional robes. It is seen as a way of connecting the individual to a deeper understanding of the Buddhist teachings while providing real insight, by way of experience, into the life and practices of the monks, who hold such a central and esteemed position in Thai national life.
Monk for a Month is now offering this same opportunity to foreign visitors who have a sincere desire to participate in such an experience. While you are not required to be Buddhist or possess any particular knowledge of Buddhism you will be required to approach your stay with a sincerity of purpose. You are expected to have proper respect for the tradition you are entering and regard for the precepts laid upon you.
We do encourage people to stay for a minimum of 21 days, during which time they should be able to progress sufficiently to become ordained as a monk. If circumstances require we also offer a reduced 14 day program.
For those who are interested in the program but are currently not in a position to stay for this length of time we invite you to participate in a short course, consisting of several days in order to get a glimpse of the life in a temple.
http://www.monkforamonth.com/
