The Eight Precepts Retreat was first established by the Buddha so that lay devotees could spend time in the monastery to deepen their practice and begin to learn about monastery life without any commitments to ordain. In southeast Asia, this is observed on uposatha days which are determined by the lunar calendar.

Participants stay overnight at the temple and are expected to uphold the eight precepts which are modeled after the precepts which novice monks observe. These include not killing, not stealing, not engaging in any sexual activity, not lying, not consuming intoxicants, not eating at improper times, not dancing or singing as well as not decorating oneself with perfumes and accessories, and not sleeping on luxurious beds.

These precepts are intended to identify specific attachments laypeople may have towards secular life. While there is nothing morally wrong about entertainment, fashion, or luxury, these are not conducive to serious spiritual practice, and so the retreat creates an environment without them.

During the retreat, participants attend classes on Buddhism and take part in a variety of activities such as meditation, prayers, and formal Buddhist meals. Occasionally, there may also be opportunities to make a pilgrimage through prostrations or transcribe sutras. 

We encourage both beginning and longtime Buddhists to join us for this retreat. While some parts of the retreat are conducted in Mandarin Chinese, there will always be a live English interpreter to provide instructions and guidance.