Bodhinyana

A Buddhist monk's life is simple and virtuous. He does not seek happiness in fleeting distractions and worldly material pleasure. Instead, he strives for the inner peace within and the light of wisdom, which arise when the mind becomes still and calm.

The monk's daily ritual begins around 4.00 am with meditation in their huts. After an optional breakfast, there would be a period of chores before their last meal for the day at 10.30am. This meal is essentially the monks only meal for the day. The rest of the day is spent in seclusion, practising walking and sitting meditation and studying the Buddha's teachings. Sometimes, they come together to share an informal discussion at 6pm. They also chant together regularly and receive guidance from the senior monks in principles of Buddhism, meditation and proper conducts for a monk. Each fortnight, the monks meet formally to reaffirm their commitment to the training by reciting the monastic Code of Discipline, called the Patimokkha.

The Sangha and the Lay Community

The monks are not allowed to handle money and are not employed in paid work, but do accept other forms of generous offerings such as food and other necessary requisites. This way, the laity is able to cultivate the act of letting go and feel the joy of giving which is essential to every person's inner well being.

The monks are invited to give Dhamma Talks every Friday night at the Dhammaloka Buddhist Centre in Perth and also conducts meditation retreats in venues around Perth .