- 1). Visit a Tibetan Buddhist center and receive spiritual teachings. If you feel an affinity with the teachings you receive, you may take refuge in the Buddha (the teacher), the dharma (the teachings), and the sangha (the Buddhist community). This act formalizes the adoption of Buddhism.
- 2). Undertake spiritual practice. The teachings will initially be introductory, becoming progressively more advanced through contact with various Buddhist teachers. Embarking upon retreats is another important first step on the path to ordination, one which will provide an experience of monastic life.
- 3). Study fundamental Buddhist teachings such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment seriously. Under the guidance of an elder of your Buddhist community, begin the study of the Heart Sutra, the Lotus Sutra, and the Mulamadhyamakakarika.
- 4). Establish a relationship with a Tibetan Buddhist spiritual teacher. These relationships will grow out of participation in the Tibetan Buddhist religious community. Take the time to let this relationship develop in order to determine if this teacher is appropriate as a guru. Ask knowledgeable members of the community for their opinions on the guru and his lineage, make a determination as to whether his actions are aligned with those expected of a respected spiritual teacher and evaluate whether or not the guru is interested primarily in his own personal financial gain.
- 5). Continue the study of the sutras, while performing the practices given under the tutelage of the guru, with determination. Take as many opportunities to attend retreats as possible. This stage of preparation for ordination can take several years and requires a great deal of patience and persistence. Ordination will only be offered when the guru determines that the candidate is prepared.
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