Buddhist Quote by Tenzin Palmo
“I think it would help if, when people are first ordained, they underwent a period of strict training, maybe for several years. During this time they would learn basic Buddhist philosophy in a monastic community where all the teaching and training was directed toward living a perfect monastic life and wasn't channeled out to fit into the lay life - which is what usually happens in Dharma centers where the teachings are directed toward how to live the Dharma in your everyday life.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on monastic training, 2015
Advocates extensive, isolated monastic training before ordination to ensure deep understanding of Buddhist practice.
In simple terms: Long training builds true monastic skill.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize deep training before public teaching.
Themes
monastic discipline
Buddhist education
spiritual formation
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
instructional
philosophical
When to use this quote
- ordination ceremonies
- seminary curricula
- spiritual retreats
- religious education
Key Concepts
monasticism
pedagogy
spiritual authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- How does prolonged isolation affect later lay engagement?
- Is intensive training necessary for all monastic paths?
A Different Perspective
May limit adaptability of monks to lay contexts.
