Pa-Auk Forest Monastery

The Pa-Auk Tawga Kyaung (Forest Monastery) is located 15 km southeast of Mawlamyine.

Tradition and Teacher

The Venerable Pa-Auk Sayadaw is considered an excellent teacher and expert in concentration meditation (Samatha) and Jhana (absorptions). The daily interviews with meditators are usually conducted by the Venerable Pa-Auk Sayadaw himself, who is always open to questions.

Intensive meditation practice in relatively close adherence to the Abhidhamma (the ethical-psychological-philosophical system of Buddhist teaching).

Meditation Technique

Meditation practice takes place in the Dhamma hall or, if one wishes, also in one’s own kuti. Since there are individual practice instructions, no specific arrival date needs to be observed. In the tradition of Pa-Auk Sayadaw, all 40 traditional meditation objects (e.g., Anapanasati, analysis of the elements, 32 parts of the body, the ten Kasinas …) are taught. Most practitioners begin with Anapanasati; depending on inclination or aptitude, one can also start with another technique, such as element meditation, where one continuously scans the entire body systematically with regard to the properties of the four elements. Sitting periods in the Dhamma hall usually last 90 minutes. Those who have problems with longer sitting can also switch to a standing position or retreat to their kuti. Sayadaw ensures that newcomers are not overwhelmed. After intensive concentration meditation, the development of clear insight (Vipassana) is also practiced. Those who wish to delve deeper should bring several months of time.

Rules

Each participant commits to observing the eight Silas (moral precepts) and should endeavor to develop loving-kindness towards all living beings. Clothing should be comfortable, practical, and appropriate (no shorts or sleeveless T-shirts). White blouses and shirts are traditionally recommended; women and men wear a Longyi (sarong or wrap skirt), which is available in every market in Burma.

Language(s)

The Venerable Pa-Auk Sayadaw speaks sufficient English. Otherwise, interviews are translated into Burmese. There is also an English-language book (see book recommendation) or a corresponding brochure with meditation instructions.

Accommodation

Simple wooden kutis, which are relatively close together. Communal, traditional toilets and bathrooms.

Meals

There are always two to three relatively low-protein, vegetarian dishes and only very rarely fruits. After 12 noon, no more food should be consumed. Drinking water is available, but one should bring a water purification agent for emergencies. For longer stays, vitamin or mineral effervescent tablets are also recommended, which are also suitable as gifts for monks.

Shopping Facilities

Some everyday items are available at the stalls on the main road. Otherwise, one must take a pick-up to the next market. Flashlight, bathing slippers, water bottle, insect repellent, toiletries, and possibly a thermos (and tea or coffee) are best purchased in Yangon. Sitting cushion, vitamin or mineral tablets, and water purification agent should be brought from home if possible.

Medical Care

There is a risk of malaria. Medications are scarce and must be brought in sufficient quantity (antibiotics, Halfan, first-aid kit) and should be donated afterwards. In general, medical care in Burma is much worse than in Europe.

Costs

The maintenance of the center is financed exclusively through donations and is therefore dependent on the voluntary support of visitors.

Climate

End of November (when the rainy season ends) until the end of March (after that it gets quite hot).

Note

There is a relaxed atmosphere. Very suitable for practitioners who are interested in Samatha practice or have questions about the absorptions, or who want to practice under expert guidance for a longer period.

Another branch monastery is located in Sri Lanka:
Venerable N. Ariyadhamma Mahathera, Sri Gunawardana Yogasramaya
Gal Duwa, Kahawa, via Ambalangola 7018, Sri Lanka

Book Recommendation

A very good and free book by Pa-Auk Sayadaw, “The Light of Wisdom”, is available from Ng Wee Kang, 791-C, Tmn Kerjasama, Bkt Beruang, 75450 Melaka, Malaysia or at the email address: .

It would be nice to include an appropriate donation for shipping costs. A link for free download is at www.paauk.org

Video

Part 2 of the video
Part 3 of the video
Part 4 of the video