Preparation and Procedure for Ordination into the Buddhist Sangha

Preparation and Procedure for Ordination into the Buddhist Sangha

Ordaining as a Buddhist monk is a significant milestone in Thai culture, representing a profound commitment to personal development and spiritual practice. This article serves as a guide for prospective monks (known as Nak or Upasampadapek) on how to prepare for and proceed through the ordination ceremony.

1. Preparation Before Ordination

Before the ceremony, the candidate must prepare both mentally and physically.

  • Chanting Practice: The candidate must memorize and recite the ordination chants (Khan Nak) fluently. It is highly recommended to practice with a monk teacher to ensure correct pronunciation and composure.

  • Essential Chants to Memorize: Beyond the ordination request, one should be familiar with:

    • Methods for Pinthu, Adhitthana (vows), and Vikap Civara (robe management).

    • Blessing chants (e.g., Yatha Sapphi).

    • Daily routine chants (Morning/Evening prayers).

    • Contemplation of the Four Requisites (Paccaya Sannissita).

  • Relationship: Build a rapport with the preceptor (Upajjhaya) to understand the rules and expectations.

Asking for Forgiveness

Before entering the monkhood, it is customary to seek forgiveness from parents and elders:

"For any physical, verbal, or mental actions by which I may have intentionally or unintentionally offended you, either in your presence or in your absence, please forgive me from this moment until I attain Nirvana."

2. The Eight Requisites (Atthaparikkhar)

The core items essential for a monk are the eight requisites (Atthaparikkhar):

  1. Five Robes: Lower robe (Sabong), Waistband, Upper robe (Civara), Outer robe (Sanghati), and Chest cloth (Pha Rat Ok).

  2. Alms Bowl: Including the stand, lid, bag, and carrying strap.

  3. Razor and whetstone.

  4. Needle and thread.

  5. Water filter (Thammarong).

Other suggested personal items include toiletries, sandals, an umbrella, a flashlight, a sleeping mat, and a pillow.

3. The Procession and Entry into the Uposatha (Ordination Hall)

The procession usually includes:

  • Performances (music/drums).

  • Offerings for the preceptor and the two supporting monks (Phra Khu Suat).

  • The candidate, holding three lotus flowers, three incense sticks, and two candles.

  • The candidate’s parents, carrying the robes and the alms bowl.

Procession Rituals:

  • Circumambulate the Uposatha three times clockwise.

  • Perform the Wantha Sema (paying respect to the sacred boundary) before entering.

  • Distribute alms (Proy Than) to demonstrate generosity before entering the hall.

4. Ordination Steps (Summary)

While rituals may vary slightly by temple, the general procedure includes:

  1. Hair Cutting: Family and friends cut locks of hair; the preceptor/mentor then shaves the head completely.

  2. Forgiveness Ritual: Final leave-taking from parents and elders.

  3. Entering the Hall: The candidate enters the Uposatha to pay respects to the principal Buddha image.

  4. Formal Request: The candidate formally requests ordination (Pabbajja) and observes the 10 Precepts.

  5. Becoming a Novice: The candidate is formally given the robes by their parents and changes into monk's attire.

  6. Full Ordination (Upasampada): The candidate undergoes the formal chanting procedure, answers questions regarding qualifications (Antarayika Dhamma), and is fully accepted into the Sangha by the assembly of monks.

  7. Finalizing: The preceptor provides final teachings/admonitions, followed by the offering of alms and merit-making.

5. Important Considerations for the Family

  • Items to Prepare: Alms for the monks, offerings for the ceremony, hair-cutting tools (lotus leaf, scissors, razor), and items for guests.

  • The "Money in the Alms Bowl" Question: Many ask if a new monk can use the money donated by laypeople into the alms bowl after they disrobe. It is not recommended to use this for personal expenses. This money is considered a religious offering. It is better to use it for temple maintenance, electricity/water bills, or to continue making merit.

Note: Practices can vary between temples. It is highly advised to consult the head monk or the preceptor at the specific temple where you intend to ordain for exact requirements and local customs.