Sravasti Abbey Monastics

The monastics of Sravasti Abbey endeavor to live generously through dedicating their lives to the Buddha's teachings, practicing them earnestly, and offering them to others. They live simply, as the Buddha did, and offer a model for society at large, showing that ethical discipline contributes to a morally grounded society. Through actively developing their own qualities of loving-kindness, compassion, and wisdom, the monastics aspire to make Sravasti Abbey a beacon for peace in our conflict-torn world. Learn more about monastic life here...

Featured Series

A row of monastics and trainees chanting with eyes closed and palms together.

Sravasti Abbey Chants

Chants done throughout the day and as part of formal practice sessions recorded by the Sravasti Abbey monastic community. Also includes explanations of the visualisations and contemplations to do while chanting.

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By Prison Volunteers

A prison visit

As part of Sravasti Abbey’s program to bring the Dharma to incarcerated people, I recently…

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Chants from the Chinese Tradition

Repentance chant

The repentance chant that is part of the bimonthly monastic confession ceremony.

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Chants from the Chinese Tradition

Incense offering chant

The incense offering that opens monastic rites in the Chinese Buddhist tradition.

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Silhouette of Gyatso in front of an icy fence in winter.
By Prison Volunteers

My time in prison

A Sravasti Abbey volunteer confronts his preconceptions on what prison life is like.

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Life at Sravasti Abbey

Purpose of a monastery

A discussion on ways in which the structure of monastery life serves to transform our…

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New to Buddhism

General advice for Dharma practice

Reflecting on the purpose and meaning of our precious human life and remembering the central…

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Meditation

More advice for beginner meditators

Helpful advice on dealing with critical thoughts, thoughts about the past or future, balancing concentration…

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Meditation

Advice for beginner meditators

A listing of teachings and videos for those new to Buddhist meditation.

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Karuna the cat sits on a meditation cushion.
Cultivating Compassion

Our capacity for kindness

Cultivating compassion for specific groups of people and how this inner work transforms our everyday…

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Gems of Wisdom

Verse 82: Impulsiveness

On how conscientiousness and forethought contribute to beneficial behavior, whereas impulsiveness only brings about the…

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