Charming Tibet, Tibetan Buddhist Monastery - Sera Monastery

Sera Monastery is one of the six main monasteries of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Together with Drepung Monastery and Ganden Monastery, it is known as one of the three great monasteries of Lhasa. It is located at the foot of Sera Wuze Mountain, 3 kilometers north of Lhasa. The history of Sera Monastery dates back to the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty (1409), when it was built by Jamchen Chojey, a disciple of Tsongkhapa. Over the centuries, Sera Monastery has undergone multiple expansions and renovations, gradually forming its current scale. The architectural style of Sera Monastery is unique, blending Tibetan, Han, and Indian elements. The main buildings of the monastery include the Tsokchen Hall, Jey College, Me College, and Ngagpa College. Among them, the Tsokchen Hall is the main hall of Sera Monastery, enshrining statues of Shakyamuni Buddha and Tsongkhapa. Sera Monastery has a rich cultural heritage, housing a large collection of Buddhist scriptures, statues, thangkas, and other artifacts. Additionally, Sera Monastery is one of the important centers of Buddhist education in Tibet, having nurtured numerous high-ranking monks and scholars. Apart from its architecture and culture, the debate sessions at Sera Monastery are also a major highlight. Every afternoon, the monks gather in the debate courtyard to engage in debates. Through intense discussions and questioning, they explore Buddhist doctrines and practices. These debates are not only a method of learning and exchange but also a way to showcase Buddhist wisdom and culture. The debate sessions at Sera Monastery are a unique form of learning and exchange in Tibetan Buddhism. Here are the rules and procedures: - Debate Rules: - Debate Methods: - Direct Debate: Two people debate in turns, one asking questions and the other answering without counter-questioning. After a period, they switch roles. - Established Debate: One person presents a thesis, and others can challenge it. The responses can only be 'yes,' 'no,' or 'uncertain.' - Discussion Basis: - Logical Reasoning: Using commonly accepted principles as the basis for logical reasoning and questioning according to Buddhist logic. - Quoting Scriptures: Referencing texts from universally recognized scriptures, quoting the words of the Buddha and ancient sages to cross-examine and discuss the subtle meanings within the scriptures, thereby generating discussions on Buddhist doctrines. - Debate Procedures: - Every afternoon at a fixed time (usually from 3 to 5 PM, except on Sundays and certain holidays), monks gather in the debate courtyard of Sera Monastery. - Monks form different groups, some one-on-one, some one-on-many. Generally, the standing monk is the questioner, and the seated monk is the respondent. - The questioner first states a 'base,' then raises their right hand high, claps with the left hand, and extends the right hand towards the respondent before pulling it back to start questioning. During the questioning, they often clap, wave prayer beads, move their bodies, and sometimes shout to enhance their momentum and express their views. - The respondent remains calm and composed, responding steadily regardless of the questions. The answers can only be 'yes,' 'no,' or 'uncertain.' Throughout the process, counter-questioning is not allowed. - The debate revolves around Buddhist doctrines, exploring and understanding the essence of Buddhism through a question-and-answer format. The topics may include interpretations of scriptures, methods of practice, and Buddhist philosophy. - After a debate session, roles may be switched, or new groups formed for the next round of debates. Debating is not only a test and enhancement of the monks' Buddhist knowledge but also an essential part of their practice. For visitors, watching the debates is a unique window into understanding Tibetan Buddhist culture and the monks' learning life. However, it is important to remain quiet and respectful of the monks' religious activities and customs while watching. If you have the chance to visit Sera Monastery, don't miss this fascinating and unique scene. In summary, Sera Monastery is a historic, culturally rich, and architecturally unique Buddhist monastery. It is one of Tibet's important cultural heritage sites and tourist attractions.