Bhikkhu Bhikkhuni » Tibet Dharma

Buddhist Monastic Tradition

A bhikkhu, (bhikkhuni female) is an ordained monk or nun in the Buddhist tradition. They obey the strict Vinaya, the code of monastic discipline.

Bhikkhu Monastics: 13 facts you never knew

Not all monks shave their heads: While a shaved head is a common symbol of monastic life, in some Theravada traditions, particularly in Southeast Asia, they may keep their hair short but not completely shaved.
Ordination requires a monastic: In order to become ordained, you might have to travel to Asia as many of the teachers here are not monastics.
Robes are not monastic, necessarily: Many teachers wear robes, but are householders. Robes have other indications. All monks wear (or should wear) robes, but not all robe wearers are monks.
Multiple levels of monastic ordination exist: There are 3 levels of bikkhu ordination, and 2 levels of bikkhuni ordination. Novice is the first.
Forest Monasteries: In Southeast Asia, there exists a strong tradition of Forest Monasteries. These monasteries, often located in remote areas, emphasize a simpler, more austere lifestyle focused on meditation and solitary practice.
Alms: Traditionally, monks rely on the generosity of laypeople for their daily sustenance. This practice of alms-giving fosters a connection between the monastic community and laypeople, while also reminding Bhikkhus of their dependence on the kindness of others.
Education and Social Service: In some regions, particularly in Theravada countries, monastics play a significant role in education and social service. They may run schools, provide healthcare services, or offer spiritual guidance to the community.
Lineage and Traditions: The tradition encompasses a diverse range of lineages and traditions. These variations can be seen in the specific monastic code interpretations, daily routines, meditation practices, and even attire worn by monks in different regions.
Lay Ordination: In some Mahayana traditions, there exists the practice of lay ordination. This allows individuals to follow a set of precepts and engage in Buddhist practices while remaining laypeople and living outside the monastery.
Bhikkhuni Revival: In recent decades, there has been a growing revival of the female lineage in Theravada traditions where it had previously been absent. This movement aims to empower women to fully participate in the monastic life and contribute their unique perspectives to the Buddhist community.
Western monastics: The tradition has increasingly taken root in Western countries. Western monks face unique challenges in adapting monastic practices and teachings to a different cultural context.
Modern Challenges: monastic communities face various modern challenges, including navigating the digital world, addressing social and environmental issues, and ensuring the financial sustainability of monasteries in a changing world.
Lifelong Learning: The life of a monk is a continuous journey of lifelong learning. They dedicate themselves not only to mastering meditation techniques but also to studying Buddhist scriptures, philosophy, and ethics, striving to deepen their understanding and share their knowledge with others.

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Entity Knowledge Graph for Bhikkhu (Bhikshuni for female)

This entity knowledge graph focuses on “Bhikkhu,” a Pali term for a fully ordained Buddhist monk, with “Bhikshuni” representing its feminine counterpart.

Central Entity:

Bhikkhu/Bhikshuni (Person): A fully ordained Buddhist monk/nun who has renounced worldly life and adheres to the monastic code (Vinaya).

Connected Entities:

Monastery (Place): The physical space where the Bhikkhu/Bhikshuni resides and practices.
Monastic Order (Organization): The community of Bhikkhus/Bhikshunis who follow the same Vinaya lineage and traditions.
Precepts (Concept): The ethical guidelines (227 for Theravada) that Bhikkhus/Bhikshunis uphold, including celibacy, non-harming, honesty, and non-intoxication.
Teachings (Concept): The vast body of Buddhist knowledge and practices that Bhikkhus/Bhikshunis study and strive to embody.
Practice (Concept): The daily activities and disciplines undertaken by Bhikkhus/Bhikshunis, including meditation, chanting, alms-giving, and ethical conduct.
Master/Teacher (Person): A senior and experienced Bhikkhu/Bhikshuni who guides and instructs novices and younger monastics.
Layperson (Person): Individuals who practice Buddhism outside the monastic life and often offer support and necessities to the monastics.

Relationships:

Resides in Monastery: Bhikkhus/Bhikshunis live within the confines of a monastery, following its established routines and practices.
Member of Monastic Order: Bhikkhus/Bhikshunis belong to a specific monastic order with its unique lineage and traditions.
Observes (Bhikkhu/Bhikshuni – Precepts): Upholding the monastic code is a core responsibility and foundation of life.
Studies (Bhikkhu/Bhikshuni – Teachings): Extensive study and contemplation of Buddhist teachings are crucial aspects of their development.
Engages in (Bhikkhu/Bhikshuni – Practice): They dedicate their lives to various practices like meditation, mindful living, and service to the community.
Learns from (Bhikkhu/Bhikshuni – Master/Teacher): Senior monastics play a vital role in guiding and transmitting knowledge to novices and younger monastics.
Interacts with (Bhikkhu/Bhikshuni – Layperson): Monastics often interact with laypeople, offering teachings, guidance, and blessings, while receiving support and resources in return.

Additional Notes:

The specific details of a monastic’s life can vary based on the Buddhist tradition (Theravada, Mahayana, Vajrayana) and the specific monastery or lineage they follow.

Monastic Ordination

Theravadin

Theravada Buddhist ordination for monastics traditionally has two main levels: novice and full ordination.

Sāmaṇera (novice): This is the initial step for males typically between the ages of seven and twenty. Novices wear simpler robes and abide by a set of ten precepts. They focus on education, learning monastic discipline, and Buddhist teachings. After a training period, they can choose to return to lay life or pursue full ordination.
Bhikkhu (full ordination): This level signifies full commitment to monastic life. Bhikkhus follow a stricter set of 227, precepts) and wear the traditional saffron robes. They dedicate themselves to meditation practice, study, and upholding the monastic life. Bhikkhuni ordination, for females, is a complex issue in Theravada Buddhism. There is currently no universally recognized lineage for full ordination for women. However, some monasteries offer alternative forms of ordination or training for female monastics.

Tibetan

Ordination in Tibetan Buddhism

Tibetan Buddhism, a branch of Mahayana Buddhism, has a system of monastic ordination with several levels. Here’s a breakdown of the typical path:

1. Refuge Vow: This initial step signifies a formal commitment to the Three Jewels of Buddhism: Buddha, Dharma (teachings), and Sangha (community). Anyone can take the Refuge Vow, monastics and laypeople alike.

2. Getsul/Getsulma (Sramanera/Sramanerika): This is the novice ordination, similar to the Theravada tradition. It involves taking eight precepts and wearing simpler robes. Aspiring monastics receive teachings, participate in daily rituals, and begin meditation practices. This is a time of discernment and allows individuals to confirm their monastic calling.

3. Gelong/Gelongma (Bhikshu/Bhikshuni): This is the full monastic ordination, signifying a lifelong commitment. It involves taking 253 precepts, adopting the full saffron robes, and shaving the head. Gelongs and Gelongmas dedicate themselves to rigorous study, meditation practice, and upholding monastic discipline.

Additional points to consider:

Temporary Ordination: Some lineages offer temporary ordination options, allowing individuals to experience monastic life for a set period.
Female Ordination: The issue of full ordination for women (Gelongma) is complex and debated in Tibetan Buddhism. There is currently no universally recognized lineage for Bhikshuni ordination in Tibetan traditions. Some monasteries offer alternative programs or empowerments for female monastics.
Variations: Practices and specific requirements for ordination can vary slightly between different Tibetan Buddhist lineages (e.g., Gelugpa, Kagyu, Nyingma).

Tibetan Buddhist ordination is a serious undertaking, requiring dedication, discipline, and a strong commitment to the monastic life and its vows.

The Path of a Bhikkhu: Upholding the Monastic Life in Buddhism

The figure of the monk (Bhikshuni for female) holds a significant position within Buddhist traditions. They embody dedication, discipline, and a commitment to spiritual growth. This post delves into the world of Bhikkhus, exploring the various aspects that define their path.

Monastery: A Haven for Practice

A monk’s life revolves around the monastery, their physical and spiritual home. This serene environment provides a space for them to reside, practice, and learn alongside fellow monastics.

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Monastic Order: A Community of Shared Vows

Bhikkhus are not solitary figures. They belong to a monastic order, a community bound by a shared commitment to the monastic code (Vinaya) and specific lineage traditions. This sense of belonging fosters support, guidance, and a shared purpose among the monastics.

Precepts: The Ethical Foundation

The precepts serve as the foundation of a monastic life. These ethical guidelines, often numbering 227 in the Theravada tradition, govern their conduct and ensure they uphold the principles of non-harming, truthfulness, and right livelihood.

Teachings: A Wellspring of Wisdom

Monastics dedicate themselves to studying the vast teachings of Buddhism. They delve into core concepts like the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and various philosophical and meditation practices, aiming to gain a deeper understanding of the path to enlightenment.

Practice: Embodying the Dharma

A monk’s life is an embodiment of practice. Meditation, chanting, alms-giving, and mindful living become interwoven into their daily routines. These practices serve as tools for self-transformation and the cultivation of qualities like compassion, wisdom, and equanimity.

Master/Teacher: A Guiding Light

Senior and experienced monastics, often referred to as masters or teachers, play a crucial role in the传承 (chuán chéng) – transmission of knowledge and guidance within the monastic order. They provide support, answer questions, and offer valuable insights to novices and younger monastics as they progress on their spiritual journey.

Bhikkhunis: Trailblazers on the Path

The journey of Bhikkshunis deserves special recognition. While facing historical challenges and societal biases in some traditions, Bhikkshunis have persevered in upholding the monastic life and contributing to the preservation and transmission of Buddhist teachings. Their presence enriches the monastic landscape and serves as an inspiration for future generations seeking to walk the path of renunciation and spiritual growth.

By understanding these interconnected aspects, we gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication and transformative journey undertaken by Bhikkhus and Bhikkhunis in their pursuit of enlightenment and the betterment of all beings.

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Layperson: A Symbiotic Relationship

While leading a monastic life, Bhikkhus do not exist in isolation. They interact with laypeople, offering teachings, spiritual guidance, and blessings. In return, laypeople often provide them with necessities and support, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship within the Buddhist community.

By understanding these interconnected aspects, we gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication and transformative journey undertaken by Bhikkhus in their pursuit of enlightenment and the betterment of all beings.