Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery was founded by Most Venerable Kiribathgoda Gnanananda Thero in 1999 with the sole purpose of creating the conditions for attaining enlightenment under the teachings of Gautama Buddha. Since then hundreds of people have received monastic ordination and practiced under his guidance. Mahamevnawa is now offering this opportunity to people from countries around the world.
The process of ordination begins with a period of living at one of our monasteries as an upāsaka (lay devotee) in order to learn about the monastic life as laid down by the Buddha. This allows candidates to get a feel for what life will be like after ordination. During this time it is expected that candidates investigate Mahamevnawa and make a commitment to being part of the community for the long term. If it is determined that a candidate is suitable, the next step is pabbajja (novice ordination) which typically lasts from one to two years depending on circumstances. When the candidate has demonstrated a commitment to practice sincerely and live in harmony with the community, it is possible to take high ordination (Pali: upasampada).
Potential candidates for ordination must:
- Be free from financial debts or obligation (including child support)
- Be in good mental and physical health
- Hold a valid passport
- Have permission from parents
The emphasis of monastic training in Mahamevnawa is on practicing the teachings of the Buddha as they are found in the Sutta Pitaka. For this reason you will be trained in
- Canonical meditation practices such as anapanasati, brahmavihara, meditation on impermanance, and all the anussatis such as recollection of the Buddha, Dhamma & Sangha, recollection of death, and recollection of virtue.
- Ways of living in harmony with others
- Understanding the suttas
- The monastic rules that structure the life of Buddhist monastics
Start your exploration….
If you are interested in ordination, please contact us by using the form below.