The Thai Forest Tradition

The Thai Forest Tradition is a movement within Theravada Buddhism. Its monks live in simple forest monasteries, practise meditation intensively and follow the monastic rules, the Vinaya, closely. It began in north-east Thailand and now has monasteries in many countries, including Australia.

Origins

In the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, a monk named Ajahn Mun Bhuridatto, with his teacher Ajahn Sao, set out to live as they believed the early monks had lived. They wandered in the forests, kept strict discipline and put meditation at the centre. Ajahn Mun became a highly respected teacher, and many of his students went on to found monasteries.

"Ajahn" is a Thai word meaning teacher. It is used as a title for senior monks.

Ajahn Chah and the spread overseas

One of the best-known teachers of the next generation was Ajahn Chah, who founded Wat Nong Pah Pong in north-east Thailand. He was known for simple, direct teaching drawn from daily life. He accepted Western students, and his monastery Wat Pah Nanachat was set up for them.

His students founded monasteries in Britain, Australia, New Zealand, North America and Europe. Other lineages descended from Ajahn Mun, such as that of Ajahn Maha Boowa, have also spread abroad. In Australia, several forest monasteries are associated with these lineages.

Daily life in a forest monastery

Life is simple. Monks eat once a day from food offered by lay people, often after a morning alms round. They own few possessions, do not handle money, and keep the full set of monastic rules. The day includes chanting, sitting and walking meditation, chores and time alone.

The relationship with lay people is mutual. Lay supporters offer food and requisites. The monks offer teaching and an example of the renunciant life. This exchange of gifts is an important part of the tradition.

Teaching style

Forest teachers usually emphasise practice over theory. Common themes are mindfulness of breathing, recollection of the body, patience, restraint, and seeing for oneself that all things are impermanent. Ajahn Chah often taught that letting go is the heart of the path. Many talks by forest teachers have been translated into English and are widely available to read.