The Life of Discipline, Study, and Service: Reflections on My Journey at Sera JheMonastic University
My journey in this experience as a monk began at the age of two and half. Over the past 26
years, I have spent significant time at two key monastic institutions, Kopan Monastery, where I
was nurtured in my early years, and Sera Jhe Monastic University in South India, where the bulk
of my training took place. Sera, one of the largest Buddhist monastic universities, houses over
5,000 monks committed to the study of Buddhist philosophy, debate, and meditation. My time
there was marked by rigorous discipline, intense study, and deep spiritual growth—each
experience shaping my mind and approach to life.
Routine of Discipline and Learning
Sera Jhe was not just a place of study; it was a crucible for transformation. The daily schedule
demanded both intellectual engagement and deep spiritual discipline. My day began at 5:30
a.m. with prayers and pujas, grounding me for the day ahead. These rituals fostered a sense of
connection to the teachings and strengthened my focus for the day.
The days were filled with study, starting with memorization sessions—a vital part of our
education that required sharp mental discipline. Following that, we participated in debates, a
central practice in Buddhist learning. These debates were not only tools for sharpening the mind
but also for gaining deeper insights into the teachings. They required critical thinking, clarity of
thought, and the ability to challenge our own understanding.
Afternoons were devoted to classes on a wide range of subjects, from Buddhist philosophy and
Tibetan language to worldly knowledge like mathematics and science. This balanced curriculum
aimed to create well-rounded monks, grounded in both spiritual and practical wisdom. The
evenings brought more debate and memorization, often stretching late into the night. This
demanding schedule pushed me beyond my comfort zone, and it was within this structured life
that my mind and spirit were shaped.
Lessons in Philosophy and Practice
At Sera Jhe, the curriculum covered essential Buddhist texts and teachings. My studies included
topics like the nature of the mind and mental factors, as well as more advanced subjects such
as Paramita (Perfection), Madhyamika (the Middle Way), Pramana Vartika (logic and
epistemology), and Vinaya (monastic discipline). These teachings were not just abstract
concepts—they were practical guides for navigating life, mastering the mind, and finding
balance.
One of the greatest privileges during my time at Sera Jhe was being personally tutored by the
104th Ganden Tri Rinpoche, the holder of the Gelug lineage. His guidance went beyond
traditional lessons, helping me grasp the deeper essence of Buddhist philosophy and how to
apply it to everyday life. His teachings on compassion were particularly transformative,
reinforcing that true wisdom is not merely intellectual but must be lived and embodied.
A central focus of my training was Bodhichitta, the mind of awakening. As the Rigchung holder
in the topic of Compassion, I delved deeply into this practice. From the Buddhist perspective,
compassion is not just a feeling of empathy but a profound realization of the interconnectedness
of all beings. It became clear that true happiness is inseparable from the well-being of others—a
realization that has deeply influenced my spiritual path and continues to shape how I interact
with the world.
Rigorous Study and Inner Transformation
The teachings at Sera Jhe were not simply academic pursuits but tools for inner transformation.
As I engaged with the teachings of Madhyamika, Paramita, and Pramana Vartika, I realized that
these philosophies were about more than understanding the nature of reality—they were about
transforming how I think, feel, and act.
The debate sessions, while intellectually challenging, also forced me to confront my own mental
and emotional barriers. It was not enough to memorize texts; I had to internalize them,
challenge them, and apply them to my own mind. This process led to profound personal growth,
teaching me how to conquer my emotions, control the restless mind, and find balance in every
situation.
It was not an easy journey. There were moments of frustration, self-doubt, and exhaustion, but
through the monastic lifestyle, I learned to push through these challenges and cultivate
resilience, patience, and clarity of mind.
Balancing Wisdom and Action
One of the most important lessons I learned at Sera Jhe was the necessity of
balance—specifically, the balance between wisdom and action. In Buddhism, wisdom without
action is incomplete, and action without wisdom can be misguided. The two must work in
harmony to create a balanced life. This principle has become a guiding force in my life,
influencing both my personal practice and my interactions with others.
The discipline and wisdom I gained at Sera Jhe have shaped how I approach my work with
others. Whether giving talks, offering guidance, or simply interacting, I strive to embody the
balance of wisdom and action in everything I do. The teachings of compassion, patience, and
mindfulness are not just abstract ideals but practical tools that can help anyone find balance and
peace.
Applying Monastic Wisdom to Modern Life
The lessons I learned at Sera Jhe are not confined to monastic life—they are relevant to
everyone. In today’s fast-paced, often chaotic world, the teachings of Buddhism offer a path to
inner peace and balance. Through my work, whether through teaching, writing, or offering
guidance, I aim to share these teachings in ways that are practical and accessible.
One core principle I emphasize is that true happiness comes from within. It is not dependent on
external circumstances but on how we relate to our own mind. The mental discipline I gained
has given me the tools to help others navigate their minds, find balance, and cultivate
compassion for themselves and others.
Continuing the Journey
As I reflect on my time at Sera Jhe, I am filled with gratitude for the rigorous training, profound
teachings, and personal growth I experienced. The life of monks is not easy, but it is deeply
rewarding. Every challenge, long day of study, and debate was an opportunity for growth, both
intellectually and spiritually.
Moving forward, I continue to apply the lessons in my daily life and in my work with others. The
balance of wisdom and action, discipline of mind and body, and practice of compassion are
principles that guide me in everything I do. As I continue my journey, I remain committed to
sharing these meathods, helping others find their own path to balance, peace, and happiness.
