The Life of a Buddhist Monk in a Theravada Monastery in Sri Lanka
The life of a Buddhist monk in a Theravada monastery in Sri Lanka is a simple but rewarding one. Monks wake up early in the morning, around 4:30 AM, to begin their day with meditation. After meditation, they chant the morning pirit, or prayers, and then have breakfast. After breakfast, monks attend to their daily duties. This may include cleaning the monastery, studying the Dhamma (Buddhist teachings), or teaching the Dhamma to others. Monks may also spend time in meditation or chanting. In the afternoon, monks have lunch and then rest for a while. After their rest, they may attend to more duties or continue their studies. In the evening, monks chant the evening pirit and then have dinner. After dinner, monks have some free time to relax or socialize. Monks are not allowed to work for money, so they rely on the generosity of laypeople for their support. Laypeople often donate food, clothing, and other necessities to monasteries. Monks also receive alms (offerings of food) from laypeopl...