Who Are Monastics and Lay People?

The Buddha designed a system that aims to help as many people as possible find the greatest happiness. For those dedicated to achieving full enlightenment, he established the community of monks and nuns, known as the Sangha. For individuals who want to stay part of the world while cultivating qualities that lead to enlightenment, he created the community of lay disciples. These laypeople usually follow the Five Precepts.

NOTE: You don’t need to identify as a lay Buddhist to join activities at the monastery. Our events are open to all curious individuals, regardless of background.

Monks and nuns can devote their entire time to studying and practicing the Buddha’s teachings. To do this, the Buddha advised them to give up their jobs, family responsibilities, and property. This is made possible through practicing contentment with little. The basic needs of life are supplied by the lay community. Since the lay community is much larger than the monastic community, the burden on each individual is very light. Regular contact with monks and nuns helps laypeople learn the teachings and find answers to their questions about practice.

The Buddha used a beautiful simile to describe this relationship: Just as a bee visits flowers to gather nectar without harming them, monastics collect small amounts of alms food from everyone in the village without burdening anyone. And just as a bee helps flowers by spreading pollen, monks and nuns spread the Buddha’s teachings that lead to the highest happiness.

This same relationship governs this monastery, where monks live without earning a salary, relying solely on donations from lay disciples. Because of this, they are free to dedicate their time fully to studying and practicing the Buddha’s teachings. Just like in ancient times, the monks openly share their knowledge of these teachings with anyone interested in learning.

Practically, laypeople sign up to provide meals—breakfast and lunch—at the monastery. To cover additional expenses such as medicine, transportation, the mortgage, and utilities, some laypeople pledge a fixed monthly amount or give individual donations. The monks do not accept money directly; all financial donations are managed by a board of laypeople. Sometimes, laypeople donate household items as they wish. Under the guidance of the monks, volunteers handle day-to-day operations.

The monks lead many scheduled events both at the monastery and at outside locations. Occasionally, laypeople invite the monks to their homes to give sermons and lead chanting of protective verses. Additionally, the monks remain available after events or by appointment to answer questions.