Monastic Training

Download Monastic Training Application

Philosophy

Monastic training at Zenwest has been established as an opportunity for motivated individuals to engage in an intense, fully immersive programme for a clearly defined period of time.  Our monastic training is much like an apprenticeship; it is an intimate programme, we have the capacity to accept just two monastic trainees at any time.

Monastic training may lead an individual towards becoming a Novice Priest at Zenwest, but this is not necessarily the case, nor is it intended to be so. Monastics at Zenwest are individuals who are engaged in full-time, all-out Zen training- committed to awakening in this very moment. Monastic training has nothing to do with and is separate from formal Religious or institutional authorization.

Our perspective is that residential Zen training is just that – training. A training temple should not become a place for individuals to hide from the outside world in an effort to avoid the responsibilities of life and livelihood; but rather a powerful resource that can be utilized to investigate our deepest functioning as human beings in this vast cosmos through formal Zen training. Having had an opportunity to develop insight and awakening in this way, we return to the world to explore how we can apply this insight though work, relationship, and society at large. The parameters of our Monastic Training Programme are based on this perspective.

Overview

Each term of monastic training is 3 months in length. The minimum commitment to monastic training is one month.

Training terms:

Term 1: January through March

Term 2: May though July

Term 3: September through November

Once a candidate has successfully completed the application process, pilgrimage, and completed the practical entrance examination, the candidate is ordained as a monk, committing to vows, receiving a training clothes, and a Dharma name.

At the end of the individual’s monastic training commitment, the monastic is relieved of vows, robe, and name, and returns to lay life.

The pilgrimage and entrance exam are only required before an individual’s first training period. However, the pilgrimage is recommended as a fantastic way to transition from lay life before any training period, and is always an option.

Training as a monastic at Zenwest is not simply an extended meditation retreat; it is the embodiment of a journey of transformation and awakening. At Zenwest, we make this journey come alive by incorporating the physical dynamic of the journey into our Monastic Training programme.

For further detail, please contact the Zenwest Office.

Stages of the Process

1.    Application

  • Application form
  • Written references:
    • Meditation teacher
    • Personal Character Reference
    • Employer reference
  • Essay “Why I want to enter Monastic Training at Zenwest”
  • Deposit (20%)
  • Interview with Abbot (in person, Skype, or Phone)
 2.    36km Pilgrimage to Kokizan-ji in Sooke from Victoria
  • Arrive in Victoria and overnight
  • After breakfast, receive a packed lunch, snacks, and some water
  • Delivered to the Galloping Goose trail head with all gear and trail map
  • Pilgrimage is to be completed in one day (7-10hrs)
  • Supported by Zenwest members with additional water and check ins at intervals
  • A silent escort will be provided for any candidate that wishes it
  • Alternatives will be considered for anyone who is physically unable to complete the pilgrimage as described. This should be clarified during the Application/Interview process before your arrival.

 3.    Arrival at Kokizan-ji and Entrance Examination

  • Three nights in temporary accommodation
  • Participation in full monastic schedule
  • Review of rules and regulations governing monastic training
  • Examination of sitting posture, work habits and skills.
  • Assessment

 4.    Formal Admission to Training

  • Balance of fees for training period paid
  • Signing training agreement
  • Move into longer term accommodation.
  • Tea and formal training commitment with Abbot
  • Rite of Tokudo (monastic vows – “leaving home”)
    • Shaving of the head
    • Receiving training clothes and Dharma name
    • Commitment to 16 Sila + 4 Vows:
      • 3 Refuges
      • 3 Commandments of the Ancient Buddhas
      • 10 Sila of a Monk
      • Includes celibacy and complete sobriety
      • 4 Great Vows of the Bodhisattva
    • Rite of Zendo Entering

5.    Monastic Training Begins

  • Bedding, towels, facecloth provided
  • Work clothes provided (excluding shoes)
  • Leaving the property without the Abbot’s express permission or direction will result in termination of Monastic Training.
  • No personal visitors during the training period
  • Computer and telephone access is limited to emergencies ONLY
    • This includes all cell phones and electronic devices 
    • Please do not bring your computer, phone, or any other devices.

Monastic Training Programme Details

Monastic Training Fees (all fees in $CAN)

Hermitage:

  • $799/mo ($2,397/term)

Tenting (May-September Only):

  • $599/mo ($1,797/term)

Training fees include food, shelter, consumables and any provided training materials.

Download Monastic Training Application

Monastic Training Schedule*

*The training schedule is subject to change at the Abbot’s discretion.