Born in London in 1949, Luang Por Sucitto entered monastic life in Thailand in 1975. He took bhikku ordination there in 1976 and returned to Britain in 1978 to train under Luang Por Sumedho in the lineage of the Thai Forest master, Luang Por Chah.In 1979, Luang Por Sucitto was part of the group of monks that established Cittaviveka, Chithurst Buddhist Monastery in West Sussex, UK. Luang Por was abbot of Cittaviveka from 1992 till 2014. Presently, LP travels on teaching engagements throughout the world.
Ven. Ajahn Ṭhānissaro
Introduction
Ajahn Ṭhānissaro (Geoffrey DeGraff) is a highly respected senior monk and one of the most prolific English translators of the Buddha’s original discourses. A student of the great Thai masters, he is widely known for his ability to synthesize rigorous scholarship with the practical, "heart-centered" meditation instructions of the Forest Tradition. His life's work has been dedicated to making the Pali Canon and the teachings of the Thai Forest masters accessible to a global audience.
The Journey to the Forest
Born in 1949 and raised in the United States, Ajahn Ṭhānissaro’s interest in Buddhism was sparked during his college years. After graduating from Oberlin College in 1971 with a degree in European Intellectual History, he traveled to Thailand on a fellowship.
In Thailand, he met Ajahn Fuang Jotiko, a direct disciple of the legendary Ajahn Lee Dhammadharo. Finding in Ajahn Fuang a teacher of immense skill and down-to-earth wisdom, he eventually decided to dedicate his life to the monastic path. He was ordained in 1976 and spent the next decade as Ajahn Fuang's close student and attendant at Wat Dhammasathit.
Bridging East and West
Following the passing of Ajahn Fuang in 1986, Ajahn Ṭhānissaro remained in Thailand for several years. In 1991, at the invitation of Ajahn Suwat Suvaco, he moved to the hills of San Diego County, California, to help establish Metta Forest Monastery (Wat Mettavanaram).
Since 1993, he has served as the Abbot of Metta Forest Monastery, where he has cultivated a sanctuary that preserves the strict discipline and intensive meditation focus of the Thai Forest Tradition on American soil. In 1995, he became the first American-born monk to be given the authority of a Preceptor (Upajjhaya) in the Dhammayut Order.
A Legacy of Translation and Teaching
Ajahn Ṭhānissaro is perhaps best known for his immense contribution to Buddhist literature. His work is characterized by "Dhamma Dana"—the principle that the Dhamma should be shared freely. His major achievements include:
The Pali Canon: Translating over 1,000 suttas from the original Pali into clear, modern English. His translations form a significant portion of the Access to Insight and Dhammatalks.org archives.
The Thai Forest Masters: Translating the teachings of masters like Ajahn Lee, Ajahn Fuang, and Ajahn Dune, preserving their unique "oral tradition" for English speakers.
Authoritative Treatises: Writing influential books such as The Wings to Awakening, The Buddhist Monastic Code, and With Each & Every Breath (a comprehensive meditation manual).
Ven. Ajahn Dton
Introduction
Ajahn Maha Dton Dhirapanno is a distinguished teacher in the Thai Forest Tradition whose life path uniquely bridges the worlds of modern medicine and ancient spiritual wisdom. A former pediatrician, Ajahn Dton brings a scientific mind and a deeply compassionate heart to his Dhamma teachings, making them highly accessible to professionals and laypeople seeking balance in a fast-paced world.
Medical Excellence and International Training
Born in Chonburi, Thailand, in 1967, Ajahn Dton (born Keyrati Srivuthana) initially pursued a career in medicine. After completing his foundational medical education in Thailand, he was awarded a prestigious Thai government scholarship to specialize in Paediatrics in the United States.
From 1994 to 1997, he served at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan (American Board of Pediatrics). During his residency, he was not only recognized for his clinical skill but also for his exceptional bedside manner, receiving the "Best of Hospitality" award—a testament to the innate kindness (Metta) that would later become a hallmark of his monastic life.
The Turning Point: Medicine for the Mind
While in the United States, despite his professional success, Ajahn Dton sought a deeper fulfillment. He attended a meditation retreat led by Ajahn Jayasaro (then the Abbot of Wat Pah Nanachat). This experience proved transformative; he realized that while medicine could heal the body, the Dhamma offered a cure for the underlying suffering of the mind.
Upon completing his advanced medical commitments, he returned to Thailand to enter the monastic life, taking his vows at Wat Pah Nanachat (The International Forest Monastery) in the lineage of Ajahn Chah.
Scholarly Achievement: The Title of "Maha"
In the Thai monastic tradition, the title "Maha" is a distinguished honour reserved for those who demonstrate high proficiency in the study of the Pali language, the original language of the Theravada scriptures.
Ajahn Dton’s intellectual rigor led him to complete advanced Buddhist studies, earning him Grade 3 Pali studies proficiency. This academic foundation allows him to share the Buddha’s original discourses with deep accuracy and linguistic insight.
Integration of Dhamma and Healthcare
Given his medical background, Ajahn Dton occupies a unique role as a Buddhist adviser and meditation instructor for:
Hospitals and Medical Schools: Helping healthcare professionals manage burnout and cultivate compassion.
Government Departments: Integrating mindfulness into public service.
Schools: Teaching the next generation the foundations of mental well-being.
He currently serves as the Co-Abbot of Wat Pah Boon Lorm in Ubon Ratchathani, a monastery that emphasizes the traditional forest lifestyle while remaining deeply engaged with the local and international community.
Ven. Chao Khun Keng
Introduction
Chao Khun Keng Khemako (commonly known by his students as Ajahn Keng) is a distinguished Singaporean monk within the Thai Forest Tradition. He is a prominent figure in the lineage of the legendary Ajahn Mun Bhuridatto, known for his rigorous adherence to forest monasticism and his compassionate leadership of communities across Southeast Asia. In recognition of his contributions to the Dhamma, he was conferred the ecclesiastical title of "Chao Khun" by the Thai Royal Family in 2012.
Early Path and Ordination
Chao Khun Keng’s journey into the monkhood was guided by some of the tradition's most respected Western and Thai masters. In 1987, acting on the recommendation of Ajahn Ṭhānissaro (Geoffrey DeGraff), he traveled to Thailand to begin his monastic training.
He received full ordination into the Dhammayut Order, a branch of Thai Buddhism known for its strict discipline and emphasis on meditation. His foundational years were shaped by the guidance of first-generation disciples of Ajahn Mun, ensuring that he received the "heart-wood" of the Forest Tradition's teachings.
Lineage and Mentorship
A defining aspect of Chao Khun Keng’s practice is his close relationship with his teacher, Luang Pu Jiak Cundo. Luang Pu Jiak was one of the most renowned first-generation disciples of Ajahn Mun, famous for his direct, "bone-deep" teaching style and his mastery of meditation.
Through this lineage, Chao Khun Keng serves as a vital link between the classic era of the Thai Forest masters and the modern Buddhist community in Malaysia and Singapore.
Regional Leadership and Service
Chao Khun Keng holds a unique and demanding set of responsibilities, overseeing monasteries in three different geographical and cultural contexts:
Santi Forest Monastery (Johor Bahru, Malaysia): As Abbot, he provides a sanctuary for forest practice just across the border from Singapore, making the tradition accessible to many Malaysians.
Om Koi Hill-Tribe Monastery (Chiang Mai, Thailand): He serves as Abbot of a remote forest monastery in the mountains of Northern Thailand, supporting the spiritual and social welfare of the hill-tribe communities.
Palelai Buddhist Temple (Singapore): As President, he guides one of Singapore’s oldest and most established Buddhist temples, bridging the gap between traditional forest practice and urban Buddhist life.
The Title of "Chao Khun"
In 2012, His Majesty the King of Thailand bestowed upon him the title of Chao Khun, a high-ranking ecclesiastical honor rarely given to non-Thai monastics. This title recognizes his seniority, his mastery of the Dhamma, and his significant roles in both the administration of the Sangha and the propagation of the Buddha’s teachings internationally.
As a visiting monastic at BUBS, Chao Khun Keng offers a bridge between cultures—sharing the profound, ascetic wisdom of the Thai mountains in a way that resonates deeply with the Singaporean and Malaysian experience.
Ven. B. Sri Saranankara Nāyaka Māhathero
Introduction
Most Venerable B. Sri Saranankara Nāyaka Māhathero is a towering figure in the Malaysian Buddhist landscape. Since his arrival from Sri Lanka over 40 years ago, he has dedicated his life to spiritual guidance, social welfare, and the promotion of a compassionate Buddhist identity in Malaysia. Known for his "Dhamma in Action" approach, he has touched the lives of thousands through his extensive humanitarian projects and his role as a spiritual advisor to numerous societies.
Early Life and Mission to Malaysia
Born in Sri Lanka, Venerable Sri Saranankara embarked on his monastic journey with a deep commitment to the Buddha’s path of service. In the early 1980s, he arrived in Malaysia to serve the spiritual needs of the local community. What began as a mission to support a small temple in Sentul evolved into a nationwide movement of Dhamma propagation and social service.
Building a Spiritual Sanctuary: Sentul Sri Lanka Buddhist Temple
Under his visionary leadership as Abbot, the Sri Lanka Buddhist Temple in Sentul was transformed from a modest temple into a vibrant center for Buddhist practice. Today, it stands as a significant monastery with a resident Sangha, providing:
Daily Religious Services: Catering to the spiritual needs of the diverse Buddhist community in Kuala Lumpur.
Monastic Training: Serving as a hub for resident Bhikkhus to practice and study.
Cultural Hub: Promoting the rich traditions of Sri Lankan and Malaysian Theravada Buddhism.
The Architect of Compassion: Maha Karuna
Venerable Sri Saranankara is perhaps most widely recognized for founding the Maha Karuna Buddhist Society. His philosophy centers on the idea that spiritual practice must be coupled with compassion for the less fortunate. Key milestones of his compassionate work include:
Social Welfare: Establishing the Upekkha Compassionate Home for the elderly and underprivileged.
Healthcare Initiatives: Spearheading mobile clinics and medical camps locally and internationally.
Education: Providing scholarships and school supplies to children in rural areas through various "Back to School" programs.
Leadership and Spiritual Guidance
Beyond Sentul, Venerable has been instrumental in the birth and growth of several prominent Buddhist societies in Malaysia, including:
Kinrara Metta Buddhist Society (KMBS)
Mudita Buddhist Society
Sungai Long Buddhist Society
His wisdom is sought after by many; he serves as a Spiritual Advisor to dozens of Buddhist organizations across both Malaysia and Sri Lanka, fostering unity and collaboration within the Theravada Buddhist Council of Malaysia (TBCM).
Ecclesiastical Honors
In recognition of his tireless service and contributions to the "Sasana" (the Buddhist dispensation) in Malaysia, Venerable has received high-ranking honours from the Sangha in Sri Lanka:
2008: Conferred the prestigious ecclesiastical title of "Adhikarana Sangha Nayaka" (Chief Judiciary High Monk) of Malaysia by the Malwatte Chapter of the Syamupali Nikāya in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
2012: Appointed as a Monastic Advisor to the Theravada Buddhist Council of Malaysia.
Āyasmā Ariyadhammika
Introduction
Āyasmā Ariyadhammika is a highly seasoned Austrian Thera (Elder) with a vast breadth of experience across the primary Theravada Buddhist landscapes of Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. Known for his "global" monastic training, he integrates various meditation lineages with a deep scholarly focus on Early Buddhism. He currently serves as a guiding teacher for monastics at the Sāsānarakkha Buddhist Sanctuary (SBS) in Perak, Malaysia.
Early Life and Academic Background
Born Björn Selic in Austria in 1976, Āyasmā Ariyadhammika was academically inclined toward Economics and Music, which he studied at the University of Graz. His spiritual curiosity was piqued at the age of 14 upon discovering the Buddha’s teachings in a local library. After a decade of independent study and practice in the U Ba Khin tradition, his commitment to the Dhamma led him to renounce his lay life in 2005 to seek ordination in Asia.
Formative Years in Myanmar (2005–2010)
Āyasmā Ariyadhammika received his full ordination on July 14, 2005, at the renowned Pa-Auk Forest Monastery in Myanmar, with Pa-Auk Sayadaw as his preceptor. He spent five years living a minimalist forest life, often dwelling in the open air under trees. During this time, he mastered Ānāpānassati (mindfulness of breathing) and later explored the diverse meditation techniques of the Mogok, Mahasi, Shwe Oo Min (U Tejaniya), and Sunlun traditions.
Thai Forest Training (2010–2013)
Seeking to experience the lifestyle of the Thai Forest Tradition, he moved to Thailand in 2010. He underwent the traditional training of a forest monk at Wat Pah Nanachat (the International Forest Monastery of the Ajahn Chah lineage). He spent his final year in Thailand on thudong (monastic wandering), journeying throughout the country to practice in secluded branch monasteries and Dhammayuttika Nikāya forest hermitages.
Connection with Malaysia and Ven. Aggacitta (2013–2015)
In 2013, Āyasmā Ariyadhammika arrived in Malaysia, where he developed a significant spiritual bond with Āyasmā Aggacitta Mahāthera. He spent two years at Sāsānarakkha Buddhist Sanctuary (SBS) and the Mūla Vihāra hermitage, engaging in intensive studies of Pāli, Suttanta, and the Vinaya (monastic discipline) under Ven. Aggacitta’s mentorship.
Sri Lankan Residency and Preceptorship (2015–2018)
To complete his study of the three main Theravada cultures, he moved to Sri Lanka in 2015. He practised and taught at Nā Uyana Aranya, and later at the historic Island Hermitage (founded by Ven. Ñānatiloka). During this period, he took on the role of upajjhāya (preceptor), ordaining and training Western disciples while leading them on thudong through the Sri Lankan hillsides.
Current Leadership at SBS
In 2018, having accomplished his goal of exploring the meditation methods and monastic cultures of the major Theravada nations, Āyasmā Ariyadhammika returned to Malaysia to settle long-term. He accepted the invitation to become the Saṅghaṇāyaka at the SBS Monk Training Centre in Taiping. In this role, he is dedicated to supporting and training fellow monastics in a way that balances forest practice with scriptural accuracy.
Luang Por Thong Daeng
Introduction
Luang Por Thong Daeng is a senior monastic of the Thai Forest Tradition, widely respected for his deep commitment to the dhutanga (ascetic) practices. Trained in the lineage of the legendary Ajahn Mun Bhuridatto, he is known for his calm presence and his profound experience in forest wandering. Having spent decades practicing in the secluded mountains of Northern Thailand, he now serves as the Abbot of Wat Doi Phra Chao Ton Luang in Chiang Mai.
Early Life and Dedication to the Path
Born in the province of Sakhon Nakhon—the heartland of the Forest Tradition in Northeast Thailand—Luang Por Thong Daeng felt a deep connection to the monastic life from a young age. He entered the Sangha as a novice at just 15 years old. At age 21, he took higher ordination as a Bhikkhu, formally committing his life to the pursuit of Dhamma.
Lineage and Training
Luang Por’s practice is rooted in the rigorous standards of the first-generation disciples of Ajahn Mun. He received formative guidance from his teacher, Venerable Ajahn Uttamo, a highly regarded forest monk known for his strict adherence to the monastic code and his mastery of meditation.
The Years of Thudong and Seclusion
A hallmark of Luang Por Thong Daeng’s monastic journey is his four-year "Tudong" pilgrimage. During this time, he practiced the wandering forest tradition in its most traditional form, walking from the Northeast of Thailand all the way to the Southeast. Living with only the most basic requisites, he utilized the challenges of the wilderness—hunger, weather, and the solitude of the forest—as tools to sharpen his mindfulness and develop inner resilience.
Following his years of wandering, Luang Por spent eight years under the tutelage of Luang Por Plien Panyapatipo at Wat Aranyawiwake in Chiang Mai. Luang Por Plien was one of Thailand’s most famous meditation masters, and training under him allowed Luang Por Thong Daeng to further refine his meditative insight and wisdom.
Leadership at Wat Doi Phra Chao Ton Luang
Today, as the Abbot of Wat Doi Phra Chao Ton Luang, Luang Por Thong Daeng maintains a sanctuary for monastics and laypeople seeking peace and spiritual development. His monastery in Chiang Mai reflects his own practice: a place of silence, natural beauty, and diligent effort.
Ven. Ajahn Siripanyo
Introduction
Ajahn Siripanyo is a respected senior monk in the Thai Forest Tradition whose life story bridges the cosmopolitan world of his upbringing with the ascetic rigours of the jungle. Of Thai and Malaysian descent, he is known for his humility and his choice to practice in one of the most remote and challenging environments in Thailand. As the Abbot of Dtao Dam, he oversees a sanctuary dedicated to deep meditation and the preservation of the natural world.
Early Life and Education
Born in London, Ajahn Siripanyo grew up in a multicultural environment, being the son of a prominent Malaysian businessman and a Thai mother. He was educated in the United Kingdom, where he experienced a diverse and modern upbringing. Despite the comforts of his early life, his spiritual search led him to explore the teachings of the Buddha, eventually drawing him to the discipline and simplicity of the Forest Tradition.
Entering the Forest Path
Ajahn Siripanyo took ordination in Thailand over 20 years ago. He was trained in the lineage of Ajahn Chah, a tradition that emphasizes the development of mindfulness through the strict adherence to monastic discipline (Vinaya) and the endurance of physical hardships.
His training took place in the traditional forest monasteries of Thailand, where he immersed himself in the "dhutanga" (ascetic) practices. This path involves living simply, often under trees or in caves, and relying on the generosity of local villagers for a single daily meal.
Abbot of Dtao Dam Hermitage
Currently, Ajahn Siripanyo serves as the Abbot of Dtao Dam, a remote forest hermitage located deep within the Sai Yok National Park in Kanchanaburi Province, near the Thai-Burmese border.
Dtao Dam is renowned for its isolation and its rugged beauty. It is a place where:
The Wilderness is the Teacher: Monastics live without modern amenities, practising in a landscape shared with wild animals and the elements.
Intensive Meditation: The focus is entirely on the cultivation of Samadhi (concentration) and Panna (wisdom) in the silence of the deep jungle.
Environmental Stewardship: Under Ajahn Siripanyo's guidance, the hermitage acts as a protector of the surrounding forest, embodying the Buddhist principle of living in harmony with all sentient beings.
Luang Por Viradhammo
Introduction
Luang Por Viradhammo is a senior monastic in the Thai Forest Tradition and the most senior Western-born monk of this lineage currently residing in North America. A direct disciple of the legendary Ajahn Chah, his monastic career spans over 50 years. He is widely respected for his deep understanding of the Dhamma, his skill in guiding meditation, and his pioneering role in establishing forest monasteries in the West.
Early Life and Meeting the Path
Born in Germany to Latvian parents, Luang Por Viradhammo eventually emigrated to Toronto, Canada. His spiritual search began in the early 1970s while he was working as a teacher in West Africa. This journey eventually led him to India and then to Thailand, where he encountered the life and teachings of the forest monastics.
Training under Ajahn Chah
In 1974, he received full ordination as a Bhikkhu from Ajahn Chah at Wat Nong Pah Pong. As one of the earliest Westerners to arrive in the Ubon province of Northeast Thailand, he was a founding resident of Wat Pah Nanachat (The International Forest Monastery), established by Ajahn Chah specifically to train Western disciples in the traditional Thai forest way.
A Global Pioneer of the Forest Sangha
Luang Por Viradhammo has spent much of his monastic life at the forefront of the "Forest Sangha" expansion. His leadership has been instrumental in founding and guiding monasteries across three continents:
United Kingdom: He assisted Ajahn Sumedho in the early years of Chithurst (Cittaviveka) and Amaravati Buddhist Monasteries.
New Zealand: In 1985, he was invited to Wellington to establish Bodhinyanarama Buddhist Monastery, where he served as Abbot for many years, helping the tradition take root in the Southern Hemisphere.
Canada: Returning to his home country, he founded Tisarana Buddhist Monastery in Perth, Ontario. As the Abbot, he continues to guide a thriving community of monastics and lay practitioners.
Featured
Ven. Ajahn Golf
Introduction
Phra Surawat Khemachitto, affectionately known as Ajahn Golf, is a dedicated meditation master from the Dhammayut school of the Thai Forest Tradition. Based in the forest heartland of Northeast Thailand, he is known for his disciplined adherence to the monastic code and his practical, direct approach to meditation. Having spent decades training under various masters in the lineage of Ajahn Mun, Ajahn Golf brings a wealth of experiential wisdom to his students, emphasizing the importance of internalizing the Dhamma before attempting to teach others.
Roots in the Dhammayut Tradition
Born in Bangkok, Ajahn Golf felt a spiritual calling early in life. At the age of 20, he received full ordination in Udon Thani, a province famous for being the spiritual epicenter of the Thai Forest Tradition. He entered the Dhammayut Nikaya, the monastic order founded by King Mongkut that focuses on a return to the original Dhamma-Vinaya (discipline and teachings) and is the home of the Great Forest Masters.
Years of Diligent Practice
Ajahn Golf spent his formative years as a wandering monk, moving between the provinces of Udon, Sakon Nakhon, Khon Kaen, and Nong Bua Lamphu. This "Forest Heartland" is known for its rugged terrain and remote monasteries. During this period, he practiced under various meditation masters, focusing on:
Cittabhavana (Mental Development): Developing deep concentration and sharp mindfulness through the traditional forest methods.
Seclusion: Spending long periods in solitary practice to observe the subtle movements of the mind.
Dhamma-Vinaya: Maintaining the strict standards of conduct that are the hallmark of the Dhammayut tradition.
Leadership at Wat Pa Anuttaro
Today, Ajahn Golf serves as the Abbot of Wat Pa Anuttaro in Nong Bua Lamphu province. Under his guidance, the monastery has become a sanctuary for those seeking a quiet, intensive environment for meditation.
Notably, Ajahn Golf is recognized for his humility and caution regarding teaching. For many years, he focused solely on his own practice, only beginning to teach Dhamma publicly once he felt he had attained a sufficient depth of understanding and the confidence to guide others correctly. This ensures that his instructions are not merely theoretical but are born from direct personal experience.
Luang Por Karuniko
Introduction
Luang Por Karuniko is a senior monastic in the Thai Forest Tradition with over 40 years of experience in the robes. A direct disciple of Ajahn Sumedho, he has been a foundational pillar in the establishment of the Forest Sangha in the West. Known for his technical precision, humility, and steady wisdom, he currently serves as the Abbot of Cittaviveka, the first forest monastery established in the UK.
From Engineering to Enlightenment
Born Christopher John Woodfine in 1953 near Manchester, England, Luang Por Karuniko’s early life was focused on the sciences. He graduated from Sheffield University in 1975 with an honours degree in Electronics Engineering.
His professional career as an engineer in North London was short-lived, however, as a chance encounter with a Buddhist book in 1976 sparked a profound shift in his perspective. Two years later, he met Ajahn Sumedho at the Hampstead Vihara. This meeting was a turning point; the clarity of the Forest Tradition’s teachings resonated with his logical mind and spiritual aspirations, leading him to move toward a life of renunciation.
Monastic Training and Ordination
Luang Por Karuniko began his formal training at the very beginning of the Forest Sangha's move to the English countryside:
1982: Entered the community at Cittaviveka (Chithurst Buddhist Monastery) as an Anagarika (eight-precept postulant).
July 1984: Received full Bhikkhu (monk) ordination from Ajahn Sumedho.
A Global Builder of Sangha
For much of his monastic life, Luang Por Karuniko has been an "architect" of the tradition, not just spiritually, but practically. His background in engineering proved invaluable as he helped establish and develop several monasteries:
The UK Monasteries: He was instrumental in the physical and communal development of the British branches, including Cittaviveka and Amaravati.
New Zealand: He spent significant time assisting the growth of Bodhinyanarama Monastery in Wellington, helping to solidify the tradition in the Southern Hemisphere.
Leadership at Cittaviveka
In a "full circle" journey, Luang Por Karuniko returned to where his training began to serve as the Abbot of Cittaviveka. Under his guidance, Chithurst continues to serve as a rigorous training ground for monastics and a sanctuary of silence for the thousands of laypeople who visit annually.
His leadership is characterized by a "lead-by-example" approach, upholding the high standards of discipline and simplicity that Ajahn Chah first transmitted to the West.
Ven. U Maṅgala
Introduction
Venerable U Maṅgala is a highly respected Malaysian meditation teacher and a senior disciple of the world-renowned meditation master, Most Venerable Pa-Auk Sayadawgyi. Known for his systematic teaching style and deep dedication to the Samatha-Vipassana practice, he has been instrumental in establishing several meditation hermitages across Asia. As a Malaysian-born monk, he possesses the unique ability to bridge traditional Burmese monastic training with the cultural context of local and international lay practitioners.
Academic Background and Ordination
Born in Malacca in 1968, Ven. U Maṅgala pursued a secular career in law, graduating from the Law Faculty of the University of Malaya. However, his search for a more profound truth led him to the monastic life.
In 1996, he received full ordination under Ven. Pa-Auk Sayadawgyi in Myanmar. He spent the next decade in intensive practice, immersing himself in the detailed meditation manual of the Visuddhimagga (Path of Purification) under the close supervision of his teacher.
Training and Appointment at Pa-Auk
Ven. U Maṅgala’s aptitude for the practice and his clear understanding of the Dhamma led to his appointment as a meditation teacher at the main Pa-Auk Forest Monastery in Mawlamyine, Myanmar, in 2006. In this role, he guided both local and international monastics and laypeople through the rigorous stages of concentration and insight meditation.
Establishing the Tusita and Dhamma Earth Network
In 2008, Ven. U Maṅgala returned to Malaysia to share the fruits of his training. With the support of the Malaysia Dhamma Society, he founded Tusita Hermitage in Kuching, Sarawak. His vision for a dedicated space for intensive practice led to the rapid expansion of the Tusita Saṅgha Council, which now oversees centers in:
Malaysia: Kuching, Malacca, Penang, and Taiping.
International: The Nepal Himalayas and Taiwan.
In 2016, he established Dhamma Earth (Tusita Dhamma Earth) in Semenyih, Selangor. This center has become a major hub for Dhamma education, youth programs, and intensive retreats in Peninsular Malaysia.
Āyasmā Aggacitta
Introduction
Āyasmā Aggacitta is one of Malaysia’s most prominent and respected senior monastics. A monk of profound intellectual depth and meditative experience, he is known for his "critically constructive" approach to the Dhamma. Rather than simply following tradition, he has dedicated his life to investigating the Pali scriptures alongside real-life experience to provide practitioners with a Dhamma that is authentic, practical, and grounded in reality.
Ordination and Burmese Training
Born in Malaysia, Āyasmā Aggacitta received his higher ordination in 1979 in Yangon, Myanmar. He had the rare privilege of having the legendary Bhaddanta Mahāsi Sayādaw as his preceptor.
His formative years as a monk were spent in intensive training under some of the most illustrious meditation masters of the 20th century:
Sayadaw U Paṇḍita: Intensive Vipassana (insight) meditation.
Sayadaw U Tissara: Traditional monastic discipline and practice.
Sayadaw U Āciṇṇa (Pa-Auk Sayadaw): Deep concentration (Samatha) and insight.
Sayadaw U Tejaniya: Mindfulness of the mind and wisdom in daily life.
The Sarawak Solitary Retreat (1994–1998)
In 1994, seeking to deepen his personal realization, Āyasmā Aggacitta withdrew from public life to undergo a four-year solitary meditation retreat in the jungles of Sarawak. This period of deep silence and introspection was a turning point, allowing him to integrate his Burmese training with a direct, unmediated observation of the mind and nature.
A Researcher of the Dhamma
Upon his return to West Malaysia in 1998, Āyasmā Aggacitta began a significant phase of Dhamma investigation. He is uniquely distinguished by his willingness to question popular interpretations of Buddhism. By cross-referencing:
Original Pali Scriptures (The Suttas and Vinaya)
Real-life meditative experiences
Contemporary research findings
He has developed a teaching style that strips away cultural superstitions to reveal the core, practical essence of the Buddha’s path.
Founding Sāsānarakkha Buddhist Sanctuary (SBS)
In the year 2000, he founded Sāsānarakkha Buddhist Sanctuary (SBS) in Taiping, Perak. Set amidst the secluded hills of a former rubber plantation, SBS was established with a specific vision: to provide a supportive environment for the training of Malaysian monastics in the Dhamma-Vinaya. Under his guidance, SBS has grown into a premier center for both monk training and lay education.
National Leadership and Recognition
Recognizing his wisdom and commitment to the Malaysian Buddhist community, the Theravada Buddhist Council of Malaysia (TBCM) invited him to serve on its Monastic Advisory Panel in 2012. He continues to be a guiding light for Buddhist organizations across the country, advocating for a Dhamma that is relevant to modern society without losing its ancient roots.
Luang Por Amaro
Introduction
Luang Por Amaro (Jeremy Horner) is a highly respected senior monastic in the Thai Forest Tradition. He is a direct disciple of the legendary Ajahn Chah and has spent over four decades as a monk, bridging the spiritual landscapes of the East and the West. Known for his keen intellect, accessible teaching style, and gentle humor, Luang Por Amaro has been a pivotal figure in the establishment of the Forest Sangha in both the United Kingdom and the United States. In recent years, he has been honored with high ecclesiastical titles by the Thai Royal Family for his contributions to the Dhamma.
Early Life and Spiritual Search
Born in Kent, England, in 1956, Luang Por Amaro pursued a degree in Psychology and Physiology at the University of London. After graduating, his search for spiritual truth led him to travel through Asia. In 1977, he found himself in Northeast Thailand at Wat Pah Nanachat, the international forest monastery founded by Ajahn Chah for Western disciples. The profound impact of Ajahn Chah’s presence and teachings led him to renounce his worldly career and ordain as a bhikkhu in 1979.
Establishing the Dhamma in the West
Shortly after his ordination, Luang Por Amaro returned to England to assist Luang Por Sumedho in establishing Chithurst Buddhist Monastery (Cittaviveka). His early years were marked by a commitment to the traditional forest life, including a notable 830-mile Tudong (monastic trek) on foot from Chithurst to Harnham Vihara in Northumberland.
In the 1990s, his teaching journeys took him to California, where he helped found Abhayagiri Buddhist Monastery in 1996. He served as the Co-Abbot of Abhayagiri alongside Luang Por Pasanno for 14 years, creating a vibrant center for practice in the Redwood Valley.
Leadership at Amaravati
In 2010, Luang Por Amaro returned to England to assume the role of Abbot at Amaravati Buddhist Monastery. Under his guidance, Amaravati has flourished as a major center for both monastic training and lay practice. He continues to lead a large community of monks and nuns while hosting thousands of visitors and retreatants annually.
Royal Ecclesiastical Titles
In recognition of his tireless service to the Sasana and his role in spreading the Buddha's teachings globally, Luang Por Amaro has received several prestigious titles from the King of Thailand:
2015: Conferred the title Chao Khun with the name Phra Videsabuddhiguna.
2019: Elevated to the higher rank of Chao Khun Rāja with the name Phra Rājabuddhivaraguṇa.
Luang Pu Somboon Kantasilo
Phrathepvatcharayanvetee, or Luang Pu Somboon Kantasilo, was born on December 9, 1940, in Nai Subdistrict, Khon Kaen Province, Thailand, to parents Mr. Sum and Mrs. Pang Somunjarn. At the age of 84, with 52 vassa/rains, he has devoted his life to spiritual practice, teaching, and community service.
Ordained on March 24, 1972, at Wat Srichan, Luang Pu Somboon Kantasilo's journey in the Buddhist monastic life began with studying Dhamma under the guidance of Phra Acharn Fun Acharo at Wat Pa Udomsomporn, Phanna Nikhom District, for 5 years. He later pursued further studies with Luang Pu Chob and embarked on a 12-year pilgrimage in the forests of Phu Ruea District.
In 1989, Luang Pu Somboon Kantasilo founded Wat Pa Somboontham, where he continues to serve as a spiritual leader and teacher. His dedication to improving the lives of others extends beyond spiritual guidance, as he actively engages in philanthropic endeavours such as the construction of Pak Chom Hospital in Pak Chom District, Loei Province.
Luang Pu Somboon Kantasilo's life and work embody the core values of Buddhism, demonstrating his commitment to the well-being of his community and fostering spiritual growth in those who seek his guidance. His legacy serves as an inspiration for monks and laypeople alike, illustrating the transformative power of selflessness, devotion, and compassion.
Tan Chao Khun Samai
Tan Chao Khun Mahā Samai Sukhasamiddho was born in Laos in 1943. After migration to Bangkok, he was ordained as novice in 1957. His full ordination took place in June 1963. During his time as young novice and young monk he completed his Dhamma studies at the advanced level and Pali Language at level 5. Before being admitted to study at the University level, he took another three years to do the secular studies. He was graduated from Mahamakut University in 1972. After taking one year course of training for Buddhist Missionary overseas, he was sent together with the most senior meditation teacher Luang Pu Boonyarith to Sydney to look after the newly established Buddhist center in 1974.
As a reward for his long and good service to the Buddhist Community in Australia, Tan Chao Khun Samai has been given the new titles four times in the last 42 years. His current title is Phra Thepsilaporn.
Each time the new title has been conferred upon him by the King of Thailand on his birthday, the 5th of December. Moreover, Mahamakut University has conferred upon him PhD Honorary Degree in May 2003 in acknowledging his long service in spreading Buddhism.
Tan Chao Khun Samai assumed the position as the leader of the Dhammayutta Sangha in Australia and New Zealand in 1998. He currently serves as a spiritual advisor to the Dhammayutta Sangha Council, and is the Abbot of Wat Pa Buddharangsee in Leumeah, NSW.
Ven. Ajahn Jutindharo
Introduction
Ajahn Jutindharo is a highly respected senior monk within the Western Forest Sangha. Having ordained in the late 1980s, he belongs to the influential generation of monastics who helped solidify the Forest Tradition in the United Kingdom under the guidance of Luang Por Sumedho. Currently serving as the Abbot of Hartridge Buddhist Monastery, he is known for his calm, reflective teaching style and his ability to make the ancient wisdom of the Thai masters accessible to a modern, Western audience.
Early Life and Spiritual Search
Born and raised in Leeds, England, Ajahn Jutindharo’s spiritual path began during his university years. It was here that he first encountered the Buddha’s teachings and began exploring meditation as a tool for understanding the mind. This intellectual and practical curiosity eventually evolved into a profound life-calling.
In 1987, he made the life-altering decision to join the monastic community. He entered the Sangha during a pivotal time when the Forest Tradition was beginning to take deep root in British soil through monasteries like Amaravati and Cittaviveka (Chithurst).
Training and Development
Ajahn Jutindharo’s monastic training was primarily based in Britain, where he benefitted from the direct mentorship of the first-generation Western elders. His practice has been marked by:
The British Forest Way: Mastering the art of maintaining forest standards within a Western cultural context.
Asian Pilgrimage: Spending formative periods in Asia to connect with the roots of the tradition, visiting the great forest monasteries of Thailand to strengthen his link to the lineage of Ajahn Chah.
Internal Reflection: Developing a teaching style that emphasizes the "Internal Monastery"—the cultivation of a peaceful heart regardless of one's external environment.
Leadership at Hartridge Monastery
In 2007, Ajahn Jutindharo assumed the abbotship of Hartridge Buddhist Monastery in Devon. Nestled in the quiet countryside of Southwest England, Hartridge is a sanctuary dedicated to the practice of the Dhamma-Vinaya. Under his guidance, the monastery has flourished as a center for both monastic training and lay retreats.
Āyasmā Rāhula
Introduction
Āyasmā Rāhula is a dedicated practitioner and teacher who bridges the profound meditative traditions of Myanmar with a modern, scholarly understanding of the mind. Having lived and practised in Asia for over two decades, he brings a global perspective to the Dhamma. He is particularly recognized for his ability to translate the complex maps of the Abhidhamma (Buddhist Psychology) into practical "anatomy of the mind" courses that resonate with students across the world.
Monastic Training in Myanmar
Āyasmā Rāhula’s monastic foundation was forged in the heart of Myanmar, where he was ordained by the Most Venerable Sayadaw Dr. Nandamālābhivaṃsa, one of the world's leading authorities on Abhidhamma and Pali scholarship.
His training has been defined by two distinct yet complementary pillars:
Awareness Meditation: Since 2004, he has received personal meditation guidance from Sayadaw U Tejaniya at Shwe Oo Min Forest Center, focusing on the cultivation of continuous, relaxed awareness in daily life.
Scriptural Mastery: He studied the Suttas and Abhidhamma intensively under Sayadaw Dr. Ukkamsacara, gaining a deep technical understanding of the Buddha’s psychological framework.
Academic Excellence and Global Teaching
In 2019, Āyasmā Rāhula further deepened his intellectual grasp of the tradition by completing a course on Buddhist Scriptures at Harvard University. This combination of traditional forest practice and Western academic rigor allows him to present the Dhamma in a way that is both authentic and intellectually accessible.
He is well-known for his weekly online courses, "Anatomy of the Mind," which apply Abhidhamma principles to modern life. These sessions are conducted in both English and Spanish, reaching students in more than 15 countries and fostering a global community of practitioners.
Humanitarian Work and SBS Malaysia
Currently, Āyasmā Rāhula resides at the Sasanarakkha Buddhist Sanctuary (SBS) in Taiping, Malaysia, where he continues his training under the guidance of Ven. Ariyadhammika.
Despite his focus on practice, he maintains a strong commitment to social service in South America, where he:
Addiction Recovery: Assists in programs helping society members gain freedom from drug and alcohol addiction.
Educational Campaigns: Supports preventative education to empower the youth against substance abuse.
Propagating Dhamma: Continues to introduce the Buddha’s teachings to the Spanish-speaking world, where the Dhamma is still emerging.
Luang Por Kalyano
Introduction
Luang Por Kalyano is a senior Western disciple in the lineage of the renowned meditation master Ajahn Chah. With over 40 years of monastic experience, he is a pivotal figure in the global expansion of the Thai Forest Tradition. As the founding abbot of Buddha Bodhivana Monastery in Australia, he is widely respected for his unwavering commitment to the monastic code (Vinaya) and his ability to guide lay practitioners toward inner peace through the development of "Stillness and Wisdom."
Early Life and Path to the Robe
Born Daniel Jones in London in 1962, Luang Por Kalyano’s spiritual quest began during his youth. While a student at Bristol University, he encountered the Buddha’s teachings and felt a deep resonance with the Path of Dhamma.
Following the completion of his degree, his search led him to Thailand, where he sought a life dedicated entirely to meditation and renunciation. In 1985, he received full ordination as a Bhikkhu at Wat Nong Pah Pong, the mother monastery of Ajahn Chah’s lineage.
Deep Roots: Training with Ajahn Anan
A defining feature of Luang Por Kalyano’s monastic life is his long and close association with Venerable Ajahn Anan Akiñcano. Ajahn Anan is celebrated as one of Ajahn Chah’s most accomplished meditation disciples, known for his profound mastery of Samadhi (concentration).
Luang Por Kalyano spent many years training under Ajahn Anan at Wat Marp Jan in Thailand. This rigorous apprenticeship provided him with a direct transmission of the forest tradition's values: endurance, meticulousness in practice, and a heart grounded in deep meditative absorption.
Establishing the Forest Tradition in Australia
In the year 2000, Luang Por Kalyano was invited by the Buddhist community in Australia to help establish a forest monastery that would uphold the standards of the Ajahn Chah lineage. This led to the founding of Buddha Bodhivana Monastery in East Warburton, a secluded forest area near Melbourne.
Under his leadership, Buddha Bodhivana has grown from a humble patch of forest into a flourishing center for monastic training. Today, it serves as a vital sanctuary for both local and international monastics, and as a spiritual hub for lay practitioners in the Melbourne region and beyond.
Ven. Ajahn Pavaro
Venerable Ajahn Pavaro is a Canadian-born bhikkhu within the Thai Forest Tradition, bringing a rich blend of deep contemplative experience and unique scholarly insight to the Sangha. Before entering monastic life, he had a distinguished academic career as a university lecturer in comparative religion in Calgary, Alberta—a field that perfectly reflected his lifelong inclination toward understanding the diverse spiritual paths of humanity. Having spent over two decades in the robes across Canada, the United States, and Thailand, Ajahn Pavaro beautifully bridges Eastern monastic practice with Western cultural frameworks.
Formative Training in the West
Ajahn Pavaro’s path of renunciation began in earnest after retiring from his academic career. In 2001, he embarked on his early, formative monastic training under the guidance of Ajahn Sona at Sitavana Forest Monastery (Birken Forest Monastery) in British Columbia, Canada. Immersed in the quiet isolation of the Canadian wilderness, he built a solid foundation in mindfulness and strict Vinaya discipline, leading to his full higher ordination (Upasampada) as a Bhikkhu in 2003.
As his practice matured, he spent his 7th year as a Bhikkhu at Abhayagiri Forest Monastery in Northern California. There, he trained directly under his preceptor, the highly revered elder master Luang Por Pasanno, alongside the Abhayagiri Sangha, cementing his connection to the international lineage of Ajahn Chah.
Deep Roots in Thailand
Seeking to experience the spiritual heartland of the forest tradition, Ajahn Pavaro relocated to Thailand in late 2010. The next nine years marked a monumental chapter in his monastic journey, the majority of which was spent residing with Ajahn Achalo at Anandagiri Forest Monastery in the scenic mountain province of Phetchabun.
During his near-decade in Asia, Ajahn Pavaro was deeply integrated into the wider Wat Nong Pah Pong community. He spent valuable periods of intensive practice at Wat Pah Nanachat (the International Forest Monastery) and was blessed with opportunities to receive direct, profound guidance from some of the lineage's most revered pillars, including Luang Por Liem and Tan Ajahn Anan. This extensive exposure allowed him to fully absorb the classic forest standards of endurance, simplicity, and community harmony.
Returning to Canada
In June 2020, carrying a wealth of wisdom from his time in Thailand, Ajahn Pavaro returned to his native country. He was warmly welcomed by Luang Por Viradhammo to Tisarana Buddhist Monastery in Perth, Ontario, where he now resides. Today, he serves as a valuable senior member of the Tisarana community, supporting the growth of the Dhamma in the West through his steady practice, guidance to younger monastics, and clear Dhamma talks for lay practitioners.