Monastic Training

Residency at Korinji is open to a small number of persons wishing to devote themselves completely to intensive practice of the Buddhist path.

Monastic training at Korinji Rinzai Zen monastery

Residency

Both lay and ordained practitioners are eligible to live at Korinji.*

Monastic life is rigorous and exhausting. We are happy to speak with you regarding your goals and suitability for this practice. We allow stays of varying length, and no one is turned away for inability to donate (it may also be possible to reside at Korinji with a modified schedule allowing for work).

If you are interested in exploring the opportunity of Buddhist monastic life (and to see our annual and daily monastic schedules) please read the residency information. Then, contact us for an application.

* Inclusivity Statement

Korinji is an inclusive community welcoming all regardless of age, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, or socioeconomic status.  Due to its natural terrain limitations and distance from available parking facilities, Korinji Monastery is not currently able to accommodate residents or guests using wheelchairs, or those unable to navigate steep slopes and stairways

Ordination

There are two types of Rinzai Zen ordination conferred in our community: monastic (shukke tokudo) and lay (nyudo).

The former is the traditional Rinzai Zen ordination. It generally requires a period of residential practice at the monastery, and includes training in teaching, ministerial, and ceremonial duties.​ The latter is for senior lay practitioners in our community wishing to express a fuller commitment to the Zen path while still fulfilling their existing family or career obligations.

If you are interested in a vocation of service to others through ordination, please read the information.