Become A Monk

While anyone may learn and practice with us, Ordination as a Monk or Nun is for those who wish to take on a monastic-inspired identity, deepen their spiritual discipline, and commit to lifelong practice in service of awakening.

Members of our Monastic Order can choose between two paths:

    • Lay Monks/Nuns:  Those who live and work in society while maintaining deep spiritual discipline. Also called “Householder Monks”.
    • Full Renunciates:  Those who take full monastic vows and renounce material attachments in pursuit of dedicated spiritual practice.

Spiritual Lifestyle

Since we have no physical monastery at this time, members of the Order live wherever they choose:

🏡 Some transform their homes into sacred spaces.
🚐 Some live as wandering yogis or in remote solitude.
💼 Some maintain jobs and families while committing to daily practice.

While you are free to design your own lifestyle, members are encouraged to:

    • Maintain a dedicated daily meditation practice.
    • Live by ethical principles and Dharma teachings.
    • Engage in regular study, self-inquiry, and contemplation.
    • Participate in sangha sessions and discussions when able.

A New Name

Upon joining, each member receives a new spiritual name, incorporating the Sanskrit word Moksha (liberation).  If you wish to choose your own, it should reflect your highest aspiration on the path. Taking on this new name symbolizes your new commitment to the path.

Here are just a few examples:

    • VidyaMoksha (Liberation through Wisdom)
    • ShantiMoksha (Liberation through Peace)
    • JnanaMoksha (Liberation through Knowledge)

Apply in 3 Stages

Becoming a monk or nun of the Moksha Sangha is a gradual process, designed to ensure that your decision is grounded, joyful, and authentic.

1. Aspirant

You begin by expressing your interest and exploring the teachings and practices of the Order. You will be encouraged to: begin gaining familiarity with the core spiritual texts of nondual spiritual traditions, begin a regular meditation practice, and participate in the online sangha.

2. Practitioner

If your aspiration deepens, you automatically become a serious dharma practitioner. At this stage you can request more guidance (if desired). You’ll be committed to regular meditation and study. You’ll take on a simplified set of ethical precepts and consider the vows which monastics usually take. This is a 30-day probationary period which helps you discern your readiness for formal ordination.

3. Ordained Monastic

After completing the previous phases, you may formally request ordination as a monk or nun of the Order. Ordination includes: A self-initiation or group ceremony. Taking of monastic vows tailored to either the Lay Monastic (householder) or full Renunciate Monastic path. Your new spiritual name. And recognition as a full member of the Moksha Sangha Monastic Order.