This was an amazing experience. It all came about after I got on a flight to Chiang Mai and sat next to a monk. It just so happens he is a monk master, and his temple is deep in the jungle close to the city I live in. These jungle monks live a unique monastic lifestyle, deeply connected to the forest environment.
We talked, since his English was good, about nothing, really—small talk. I’ve never spoken to a monk, so I took my opportunity with both hands. I asked Teacher Tawan about what it’s like being a monk and how he lives his life. He gifted me this coin, which brings good luck and protection, which I try to bring with me everywhere I go.
He then invited me to live with him at the temple, which is in a massive cave in the forest, the countryside of Udon Thani. I got Tawas’s contact details and met him a week later when we both returned to Udon Thani from Chiang Mai. We met at the airport and that’s where the adventure began! I was to stay with the monks for a few days, we met Saturday afternoon and left Tuesday morning.
I lived like them from the break of dawn till nightfall. We woke up around 4 am if I went with some of the monks to collect alms from the local community. Alms is where the people give the monks food offerings, such as rice, fish, cake, and things like this. Also, water, soda, and even things like medicine if a monk is sick. This is because a monk has to rely on this from the people, they do not have any possessions and only rely on offerings from the people to survive.
Surprisingly after 12pm they had sodas and chocolate and ice cream cones.. snacks basically. All offerings from the people, giving them boxes of drinks, and snacks.
So anyway, after we met and arrived at the temple, it was surreal. The cave was so big with a jungle surrounding it, they said when it rains there is a massive waterfall stream, I can only imagine how amazing that would look. I saw Tawan walk down the stairs to the cave with me, worshipers begin to bow, on their knees and bow three times. He would then bless them and tap their head with his hand or fan. This was all new to me, the religious and holy part of Buddhism I’ve never seen before.
I didn’t know what to do, do I bow or do I follow, wait for instructions? The master told me to sit with him, they sit in a certain position which after a while you begin to feel in your knees. It actually increased my mobility over time. It can be uncomfortable at first, but you get used to it after a while. I soaked it all up, everybody speaking in Thai, not knowing what they were talking about. Someone then said ‘superman’ referring to myself, and asking if I’m married and how long I have lived in Thailand.
Every time someone speaks to a monk, they clasp their hands together and bow, monks are very sacred. A national treasure to Thailand. We then trekked up the mountains, I wish I had been more prepared as I only brought my sandals. I had mountain climber trainers at home…
This was also pitch black at night, we had torches and walking sticks to help. It was still a fun adventure. I then asked Master Tawan some questions, he likes to answer everyone’s questions whilst going live on social media such as TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. I asked questions like how old is Buddhism? How long have you been a monk and what are the 5 precepts of Buddhism? All very Insightful.
The next morning I woke up early around 4 am, and went for a ‘monk shower’ old school style. Basically where you use a cup of water and squat down to clean yourself. It wasn’t too bad, to be honest with you. I felt ready to start my day after that. We went for alms collecting food where I would video whilst the monks collected the offerings… mainly food such as rice and also other things like boxes of water bottles and cakes, fruits, etc.
It was a pretty cool walk with the monks that took around 40 minutes in total, it starts at 6 am when the sun comes up.
We then went back to the temple cave, preparing all the food, which was like a big celebration. I noticed that the countries I’ve traveled to in Southeast Asia, all have a different outlook on food, really important to them and how it tastes. Back home we just throw it in the oven or the microwave. The monks eat first, then the female monks, then the visitors. So I ate last with the others. Amazing food such as pork, egg, rice, jelly, cakes and fruit. We would sit with our legs crossed on the floor and talk, luckily I meant a nice auntie who could speak English telling me to try all this delicious food.
Sometimes we would just chill, and have a coffee or a soda after twelve since we couldn’t eat a meal. We would do some manual labor tasks which I was more than happy to do, to earn my keep as they say.
The last day we ate, I said my goodbyes and we visited a few temples on the way to the airport. Lastly, we stopped off for some coffee and a bite to eat, they kindly didn’t let me pay and we had some fish and rice. I had to pay for the coffee or I would have felt too bad lol.
Life as a Buddhist Monk
Living as a Buddhist monk is a unique and transformative experience. Monks wake up early, typically before sunrise, to start their day with meditation and spiritual practice. The sound of the temple bell often marks the beginning of their day, calling them to gather for morning chanting and meditation. This early start sets the tone for a day filled with mindfulness and reflection.
Monks follow a strict routine that includes individual praying, morning alms rounds, chanting, and study of Dhamma. The alms rounds, are a significant part of their daily life. Monks walk barefoot through the local community, receiving food offerings from the laypeople. This practice not only sustains them physically but also fosters a deep connection with the community.
Adhering to a set of precepts is fundamental to monastic life. These precepts include not killing living things, abstaining from mind-altering substances, and living a life of simplicity and humility. Monks live in a community with other monks, creating an environment of mutual support and cooperation. Visitors from the lay community often come to seek guidance, offer food, or participate in the temple’s activities, further enriching the monastic experience.
Daily Life at the Monastery
Daily life at the monastery is simple and disciplined, reflecting the core values of Thai Buddhism. Monks spend their days meditating, studying, and performing daily tasks such as sweeping and cleaning. The act of cleaning is not just about maintaining the physical space; it is also a practice in mindfulness and humility.
Monks eat two meals a day, with no food consumed after noon. The first meal is usually taken after the morning alms round, and the second meal is around midday. This practice of eating only during specific times helps monks maintain discipline and focus on their spiritual practices.
Meditation sessions are a cornerstone of monastic life, often lasting for several hours. These sessions provide monks with the opportunity to cultivate mindfulness and deepen their understanding of the Dhamma. Despite the structured routine, monks also have free time to explore the monastery grounds, engage in personal spiritual practices, or simply reflect in silence.
Community service is another important aspect of daily life. Monks participate in activities such as cleaning and maintaining the monastery, which fosters a sense of responsibility and cooperation. This communal effort helps create a harmonious and supportive environment for everyone.
Spiritual Growth and Development
Spiritual growth and development are essential aspects of monastic life. Monks engage in various spiritual practices, including meditation, chanting, and the study of Dhamma. These practices are designed to cultivate mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom, which are crucial for spiritual development.
Dharma lessons are a regular part of monastic life, where monks learn about the teachings of the Buddha. These lessons provide valuable insights into the nature of existence, suffering, and the path to enlightenment. Monks also participate in discussions and reflections, which help deepen their understanding and application of these teachings.
Guidance from senior monks is invaluable for spiritual growth. Experienced monks offer advice on meditation techniques, provide support during challenging times, and share the wisdom gained from years of practice. This mentorship helps younger monks navigate their spiritual journey and stay committed to their path.
The ultimate goal of monastic life is to attain enlightenment, a state of profound wisdom and liberation from suffering. Through dedicated practice and continuous learning, monks strive to achieve this goal, embodying the principles of Thai Buddhism in their daily lives.
Unique Aspects of Monastic Life
One of the unique aspects of monastic life is the emphasis on detachment. Monks are expected to detach themselves from worldly desires and focus on their spiritual growth. This detachment is not about renouncing the world but rather about cultivating a sense of inner peace and freedom from attachment.
Mindfulness and meditation are central to this practice. Monks spend significant time meditating, which helps them develop a deep awareness of their thoughts and emotions. This awareness allows them to remain calm and centered, even in the face of challenges.
Physical labor, such as sweeping and cleaning, is another unique aspect of monastic life. These tasks are not just about maintaining the monastery; they are also a form of practice. Engaging in physical labor helps monks cultivate humility and detachment, reminding them of the impermanence of all things.
Community and cooperation are also fundamental to monastic life. Monks live and work together, sharing meals and responsibilities. This communal living fosters a sense of unity and support, creating an environment where everyone can thrive spiritually. The emphasis on community helps monks develop compassion and empathy, essential qualities for their spiritual journey.
Lessons Learned from the Monks
One of the most important lessons learned from the monks is the importance of living in the present moment. Monks emphasize the need to focus on the here and now, letting go of attachment to the past and future. This practice of mindfulness helps cultivate a sense of inner peace and clarity.
Gratitude and detachment are also key teachings. Monks teach the importance of being grateful for what we have and not being attached to material possessions. This detachment allows us to live more freely and joyfully, without the constant desire for more.
The importance of community and cooperation is another valuable lesson. Monks demonstrate how living and working together can create a supportive and harmonious environment. By supporting one another in our spiritual growth, we can achieve greater understanding and compassion.
Living a simple and disciplined life is also a powerful lesson. Monks show that by simplifying our lives and focusing on what truly matters, we can find greater purpose and meaning. Their way of life is a testament to the profound wisdom of Thai Buddhism and its ability to transform our own lives.
Conclusion
Overall, this was an amazing experience, and it was great to really assimilate with other people and cultures, and religions. I was lucky to meet Master Tawan and hope to see him again. Can visit their temple anytime.
Thanks for reading as always, see you in the next one.
