The Precepts

The practice of the precepts enfolds over several successive steps, beginning with the precepts of personal liberation (pratimoksa lay-vows), and moving on to the precepts of compassionate action (Bodhisattva vows).

Rather than intellectual platitudes, or moral imperatives, the precepts are engaged, internalized… “worked with” rather than passively “observed.” The activity of the Precepts is the enlightened activity of the Buddha.

If students have not yet received the householder precepts (either with Prajna Institute, or another Buddhist lineage), they are required to do so within the first year after acceptance into the Seminary. Householder Precepts will be made available at all retreats.

Ordination – The Zen Priest Track

It should be noted that Institute students are not required to pursue ordination as a Zen Priest as a part of their program. Ordination is optional, and at the discretion of the student and their teacher.

Students who wish to enroll and specifically pursue ordination as a Zen Priest enter what we call the “Zen Priest Track.” The program and curriculum is the same as that for non “priest track” students, but there is a stronger focus on particular forms and practices, and interaction with the teachers.