Monastic Experience
Vedanta is the “culmination of knowledge”. This culmination, also known as moksha, spiritual freedom, is the goal of human life. In Vedanta, one realizes their ‘self’ as the ‘Self’ of the universe, one with God, yet transcendent. The scriptures give us broad steps, but each person determines the details for oneself because each one is differently constituted and unique. Vedanta allows this approach in order to enable one to work efficiently and sincerely toward the goal. Monasticism involves living life according to these broad principles and one’s own reading of the monastic vows.
We all know what family life is; monastic life is transcending family life and adopting chastity and spiritual disciplines to control the body and mind. It is in a way stepping from the known to the unknown. But this “unknown” path, meant for the brave, has great promise and potential. Every religion has had monastics that lived heroic lives. In the Ramakrishna Order a person is trained in Vedanta as demonstrated in the lives of Sri Ramakrishna, Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi, and Swami Vivekananda.
Monastic Routine
Daily meditation is the absolute core practice. The four Yogas—Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Raja Yoga—are combined in a manner that suits each individual’s temperament. Daily life involves focused work with detachment, devotion to God through worship, and prayer, studying, and contemplating Vedanta scriptures.
Tasks vary but generally include upkeep of the buildings and gardens, and temple duties. Bookstore operations and publishing provide ample opportunities to balance work and contemplation.
Requirements For A Monastic
Applicants must be reasonably fit and under 35 years of age. A minimum high school diploma is essential. Applicants should be debt-free. A minimum of one year of celibacy and abstinence from alcohol and drugs is indispensable. Monasticism involves community living and one must get along with different temperaments. On the personal level we look for people who have grit and patience, unselfishness and obedience.
Key qualities for a monastic include:
- A seeker of Truth pursuing a higher ideal.
- Renunciation of worldly enjoyment.
- Spirit of service and the joy of sharing.
- A contemplative mind.
Stages of Monastic Life
The first six months constitute a pre-probationary period. The Vedanta Society provides room and board. Personal, clothing, and medical expenses are not covered.
Then comes the probationary period, lasting a minimum of five years. The Vedanta Society provides a clothing allowance and necessary medical expenses. Upon the approval of the Center’s head, one is eligible for the first monastic vows called Brahmacharya (life of absolute purity and renunciation). This includes spending two years in India gaining a deeper monastic experience, studying scriptures, and meditation. Another four years before one is eligible for final vows of Sannyasa (final renunciation).
A Monastic Experience
Those interested in monastic life are encouraged to live near a Vedanta center and to regularly attend the services to understand Vedanta. This allows the head of the center and other monastics to know them better.
Young men are selected to experience monastic living through our “Monastic Experience program”. This program lasts from a couple of weeks to a few months, and provides an immersive experience in the lifestyle, allowing participants to explore this path before making any long-term commitment.
The primary motivation for choosing monastic life should be to seek an environment most conducive to spiritual growth, not to escape responsibilities and something unpleasant. Monastic life is not about avoiding work but taking the opportunities for duties, meditation, and study.
Ultimately, one gets out of monastic life what one puts in. Those forgoing the pleasures of ordinary life to willing work wholeheartedly towards the goal delineated by Vedanta—Self-realization, are welcome.
Contact Us
Serious inquiries about Monastic life or Monastic Experience program may be directed to our Seattle Ashrama.