Eight-Precept Retreats

Retreats that are sponsored by Saranaloka Foundation are taught by the resident nuns of Aloka Vihara. In keeping with monastic form, some of the observances that are common to life in a monastery occur at retreats. These include:

Adherence to the Eight Precepts:

  1. I undertake the precept to refrain from destroying living creatures.
  2. I undertake the precept to refrain from taking that which is not given.
  3. I undertake the precept to refrain from sexual activity.
  4. I undertake the precept to refrain from incorrect speech.
  5. I undertake the precept to refrain from intoxicating drinks and drugs which lead to carelessness.
  6. I undertake the precept to refrain from eating at the wrong time (i.e. after midday).
  7. I undertake the precept to refrain from dancing, singing, wearing jewelry, using perfumes, and beautifying the body with cosmetics.
  8. I undertake the precept to refrain from lying on a high or luxurious sleeping place.

Further, although the last meal of the day takes place before noon during Winter time and before 1 pm during Summer time, tea is always offered at around 5 p.m.

During mealtime, food is offered to the nuns followed by a blessing chant.

Also, typically the morning and evening meditation periods begin with a puja, an offering of candles and incense with everyone bowing to the shrine (this is by no means mandatory), and chanting in either Pali, English, or in combination.

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