Education

Previously people went to Tibet for a higher Buddhist education where most large monasteries had colleges attached. Traditionally monks would spend many years studying, reflecting and meditating on the meaning and implications of Buddhist philosophy. They studied the Sutras and Tantras, crafts, astrology, medicine and meditation. They read texts, received explanations, debated among themselves and went for years into solitary retreat to deepen their understanding.

These days that is no longer possible and so it is hoped to establish a college in Tengboche were philosophy, medicine and arts can be taught. It is very important to maintain the tradition of higher educational facilities in the Himalayas because this means fewer monks will move away to Kathmandu and India and the culture can be strengthened and preserved. [See Projects/school]

There is a school for the younger monks at Tengboche. Students can enter when they are seven and they are taught Tibetan and Nepali. The students study writing, grammar, literature and the teachings from the Sutra and Tantra. They learn the ceremonies and traditional arts and crafts. In addition they learn practical skills needed to help in the management of the monastery.

It used to be that students were supported by their families but now many poorer students, some without any family support at all, are asking to be enrolled. This creates an extra financial burden on the monastery but Tengboche Rinpoche considers education to be very important for the people, as well as for peace and harmony in Khumbu.

Retreats

Retreat is an important part of Buddhist life and in the area there are many old retreat places and hermitages where great masters have stayed and meditated. Nowadays, people often stay in a room in the monastery while doing retreat and it is important to provide facilities for this. As part of the yearly schedule the monks spend six weeks every summer doing the traditional rain retreat when they are not allowed to leave the compound.

In addition, many western people like to spend some time in retreat in an area as inspiring and blessed by past masters as Tengboche. Therefore, it is an aim to provide more retreat facilities close to the monastery.