Monastery Etiquette

Attire

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Dress conservatively, casually, comfortably, and refrain from wearing provocative or revealing clothing (e.g. shorts or skirts riding high above the knees, translucent clothing, clothing revealing midriff or the back, tight clothing, leggings, tank tops, etc.). While this applies to both sexes, it is especially important for women to dress conservatively out of respect and consideration for the celibate male monastics.

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Addressing Monks

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There are numerous ways to address Theravada Buddhist monks. There are further variations depending on the tradition, lineage, and even geographic region. In general, if you do not know the name of the monk, you may address him as “Bhante” (pronounced bhahn-tay).
 

Per Thai convention, “Taan” (pronounced tunn) means “venerable.” If you know a monk’s first name, you may address him as “Taan (first name).” The title “Ajaan” (pronounced ah-jahn) means “teacher” in Thai (derived from acariya, the Pali word for teacher). Some monasteries consistently use this term for monks who have been in robes for ten or more vassas (rains). At the Monastery, it is reserved for a few of the most senior monks. The abbot is often referred to as Taan Ajaan, Taan Ajaan Geoff, Phra Ajaan, or Phra Ajaan Geoff. Some students refer to him as Ajaan Geoff.

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Monastic Areas

Please avoid the monks’ area of Monastery. These are typically marked with small, yellow signs posted at some of the points of entry noting “Sangha Area.” If you’re unsure, refrain from entering and ask a monk or a long-term guests for guidance.

Monastic Rules

Guests are asked to be supportive of the Vinaya rules that the monks follow. When you are interacting with the monks, they might alert you to certain protocols or restrictions. First, be respectful of their requests. Second, they do not expect the laypeople to know all the Vinaya rules and will be happy to explain them to you, time permitting. If you want to learn more about the monks’ rules, refer to the Buddhist Monastic Code.

Right Speech

The Monastery is not a place for total silence. Visitors are encouraged to be quiet to perpetuate an atmosphere conducive to meditation. However, there are certain chores to be done and cooperation is necessary among the guests, so some speech is necessary. The Buddha taught the principle of Right Speech. Before speaking, ask yourself: Is it true? Is it useful? Is it the right time?