The author visits Spring Hill Forest Monastery, a serene retreat high in the Hantanna Mountains of Sri Lanka, escaping the heat and sparse greenery of the International Institute of Theravāda (IIT). Initially introduced during a doctor’s visit, the author regularly returns, appreciating the quiet solitude, lush forests, cool climate, and picturesque surroundings. The monastery, home to a community of monks, offers a stark contrast to IIT. Despite difficulties with local leeches and the cold, the author remains appreciative of the environment. The author also speaks at a gathering, emphasizing the importance of supporting both male and female monastics.
2023
When it comes to shaving heads, Theravāda Buddhist Monks might be the authority on this issue. It is second nature for monks to shave but perhaps unknown to the rest of the world. In this article, we will discuss the motivation, Buddhist culture and methods for shaving the head and how it is done. Simplicity …
Theravāda Buddhist Monk Head Shaving: Traditions, Stories, and Techniques Read More »