Many people wonder how long it takes to become a Buddhist monk. The answer is not simple. It depends on many factors like the country, the Buddhist tradition, and the person’s dedication. This article explains the usual process clearly and simply. It also shares important knowledge about buddhist monks and their lifestyle.
What Is a Buddhist Monk?
A Buddhist monk is a person who chooses to live a life dedicated to the teachings of the Buddha. Monks follow strict rules and live in temples or monasteries. They practice meditation, study Buddhist scriptures, and teach others. Becoming a monk means giving up many worldly desires to seek enlightenment.
The Different Stages of Becoming a Buddhist Monk
Becoming a monk usually happens in stages. Each stage takes time and requires learning and practice. Let’s look at these stages.
1. The Aspirant Stage
First, a person feels a strong wish to become a monk. This can happen at any age. The aspirant starts learning about Buddhism and the monk lifestyle. They may visit monasteries and speak with monks to understand what the life involves.
2. The Novice Stage (Samanera)
After deciding to become a monk, the aspirant may become a novice, called a samanera. This stage is like a trial period. The novice lives in the monastery, follows 10 basic precepts, and learns the daily routine.
The novice stage usually lasts from a few months to a few years. The time depends on the tradition and the individual’s readiness. Novices learn meditation, chanting, and Buddhist teachings.
3. Full Ordination (Bhikkhu)
After the novice period, when the teacher and the monastic community agree, the novice can be fully ordained as a bhikkhu (fully ordained monk). Full ordination means following 227 rules for monks in the Theravada tradition. Other traditions have different numbers of rules.
The full ordination is a serious step. It often requires the candidate to be at least 20 years old. The monk then commits to living by these rules and continues deepening their practice.
How Long Does Each Stage Take?
The total time to become a Buddhist monk varies. Here is a general timeline:
The Aspirant Stage
This can last from a few weeks to several years. It depends on when the person feels ready to take the next step.
The Novice Stage
Most novices stay for 6 months to 3 years. Some stay longer if they want more training before full ordination.
Full Ordination and Beyond
Once fully ordained, a monk continues lifelong learning. There is no fixed time to “complete” becoming a monk. The process is ongoing spiritual growth.
Factors That Affect the Time to Become a Monk
Age
Many traditions require a minimum age for full ordination, usually 20 years. Younger candidates may remain novices until they reach that age.
Tradition and Country
Different Buddhist traditions and countries have their own rules. For example, Tibetan Buddhism, Theravada Buddhism (found in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Myanmar), and Mahayana Buddhism have different customs.
Monastery Rules
Some monasteries require longer training periods. Others may allow faster ordination based on the candidate’s progress and sincerity.
Personal Readiness
The individual’s discipline, health, and understanding affect how fast they can move through the stages. Becoming a monk is not only about time but also about mental and spiritual readiness.
Daily Life of a Buddhist Monk
The life of a monk is disciplined and simple. They wake early, meditate, chant, study scriptures, and perform chores. Their daily routine supports their spiritual goals.
What Do Buddhist Monks Wear?
Buddhist monks wear simple robes, often in colors like saffron, orange, brown, or gray. These robes symbolize renunciation and simplicity.
The style and color of the robe can differ by tradition and country.
Common Misunderstandings About Becoming a Monk
It Is Not a Quick Process
Some think you can become a monk overnight. It takes time to adjust to the strict rules and the lifestyle. Patience and dedication are key.
Not Just Leaving the World
Becoming a monk is not running away from life. It is about training the mind and heart to live wisely and kindly.
It Requires Support
Monks rely on the support of their community and teachers. They need guidance to grow on their spiritual path.
How to Prepare If You Want to Become a Monk
Learn About Buddhism
Read books, attend teachings, and visit temples to understand the teachings deeply.
Practice Meditation
Start practicing meditation to train your mind and develop patience.
Visit Monasteries
Spend time in monasteries as a guest or layperson. This helps you experience the monk lifestyle firsthand.
Consult Experienced Monks
Speak with monks and teachers to get advice and learn about the path.
Conclusion
The journey to becoming a Buddhist monk takes time, patience, and commitment. From the aspirant stage to full ordination, it may take several years depending on many factors.
Remember, being a monk is not about how fast you finish but how sincerely you live by the Buddha’s teachings. This lifelong path is a journey of learning, practice, and transformation.
