Food
In this lineage, everything – accommodation, food, teachings, etc. – is available for free, thanks to the generosity of our supporters and a culture of "dana". This culture helps to develop a mutually supportive relationship where lay people offer material support to the sangha, and monastics offer spiritual teachings and keep monasteries alive for the benefit of everyone. This nurtures a relationship of mutual trust, affection and respect.
Food for the monastery kitchen
The monks live only on what is freely given to them and are not able to purchase or prepare food themselves. Gifts of food has been the primary way lay people have supported Buddhist monasticism throughout the centuries. If you would like to support us by giving food, there are various options:
Offering the daily main meal
Anyone who wishes may come to the monastery any day and offer food for the main meal. This could be a good way to learn to know the community and the facilities of the monastery on a more personal level. You can send a message to the monastery phone (909 66 462) to let the kitchen manager know that you are intending to come on a particular date, or if you have any questions.
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It is good to arrive around 10:00. You are free to use the kitchen in the monastery as necessary, please do not feel uncomfortable, our kitchen is also meant for the public, and the kitchen manager can assist you if needed. The meal is offered to the monastic community at 11:00 and then shared among everyone present. After the meal, the monks are available for conversations and questions.
Offerings for the larder
If you want to drop by the monastery and give food but do not have the possibility to join for the daily main meal, you are always welcome to leave gifts on the kitchen counter, and then the kitchen manager will store and prepare your offerings at the monastery.
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Almsround
Traditionally, Buddhist monastics go on daily almsrounds to the towns and villages in their area to collect their daily meal. This tradition of going on almsrounds stems from the spiritual seekers of ancient India. Depending on the resident community, some of our monks might more or less regularly go to Skiptvet or Askim. If you wish to participate, please do not hesitate to contact us.