A Day in the Life of a Sera Jey Monk

Blog post Nestled in the tranquil hills of Bylakuppe, Karnataka, India, Sera Jey Monastery stands as a beacon of Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Established in 1970 by monks who fled Tibet after the 1959 uprising, this monastic university has blossomed into a vibrant community of over 3,000 monks dedicated to spiritual practice and scholarly pursuit. description.

5/3/20251 min read

The daily routine at Sera Jey Monastery is a harmonious blend of devotion, study, and communal living:

5:00 AM: The day begins with a two-hour puja (prayer session), accompanied by butter tea and bread.

7:00 AM: Monks engage in memorization of Buddhist texts, a cornerstone of their spiritual education.

8:00 AM: Debate classes commence, where monks refine their understanding of Buddhist philosophy

through analytical discussions.

11:00 AM: A communal gathering for prayers is followed by lunch.

112:00 PM: Afternoons are reserved for individual studies and consultations with teachers.

This structured schedule fosters discipline and deepens the monks' spiritual and philosophical insights.

Educational Pursuits

Sera Jey Monastery offers a rigorous curriculum that encompasses the Five Major Treatises of Buddhist Philosophy. In addition to traditional studies, the monastery has integrated modern academic disciplines to provide a well-rounded education, preparing monks to engage with the contemporary world while preserving their rich heritage.

A Global Spiritual Community

Beyond its educational endeavors, Sera Jey Monastery serves as a spiritual sanctuary where monks of all ages—ranging from 7 to 90—live in harmony, united by their commitment to the welfare of all beings. Their daily prayers and practices resonate beyond the monastery walls, contributing to a global community rooted in compassion and wisdom.

For those seeking to explore the teachings and traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, Sera Jey Monastery offers a profound glimpse into a life devoted to spiritual growth and communal harmony.