Monks: Spiritual Superstars of the Religious World
Ever wondered what religion monks belong to? It’s a question that’s deceptively simple—like asking what flavor ice cream is at Baskin Robbins. So, in the true spirit of monastic inquiry (and mild mischief), let’s stroll, stride, or maybe just quietly tiptoe through the fascinating, multi-faceted religious lives of monks. Whether you imagine them as serene figures meditating atop misty mountains, soulfully singing in ornate abbeys, or (for reasons unknown) looking suspiciously like your high school geometry teacher, the truth is monks come in many faith flavors. But we can narrow it down: what religion is monks, and what exactly are those monks up to?
Monks, Monks, Everywhere—But Who Are They, Really?
Let’s not beat around the belltower (or temple, or stupa), monks are spiritual professionals. They’re the Jedi Knights in robes of the religious realm, disciplined in everything from chanting prayers and studying sacred texts to surviving on bafflingly low quantities of food while looking inexplicably energetic. The word “monk,” in its Western and Eastern iterations, refers almost exclusively to those who have committed themselves to a religious life—usually celibate and communal, often marked by vows of poverty and wardrobes with fewer decisions than Steve Jobs’ closet.
So what religion claims these mysterious monastics? Well, you have:
- Buddhist monks (the saffron-robed peace walkers, like those who embarked on a 2,300-mile Walk for Peace from Texas to DC, eating one meal per day and sleeping under trees—clearly, they missed the Airbnb memo).
- Christian monks, notably those in Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican traditions (think choral singing, candle-lit crypts, and quite impressive libraries).
- Hindu monks and ascetics, called sadhus, who prove that advanced meditation skills are compatible with dreadlocks and orange clothing.
- Jain monks, who take non-violence so seriously they occasionally sweep bugs out of their path to avoid squishing anything during their cross-legged commutes.
Buddhism: Monks On the Move (And No, They’re Not Just Doing It for the Steps)
Let’s start with Buddhism, whose monastic orders might be the best-advertised in the world—perhaps second only to fast-food chains (“Now With More Enlightenment!”). The reference to Bhikkhu Pannakara and the 2,300-mile Walk for Peace showcases one of Buddhism’s core practices: pilgrimage, discipline, and outreach. In Korean Buddhism, for instance, the Jogye Order is so concerned about dwindling monk numbers (dropping from 226 ordinations in 2014 to a mere 81 last year) they’re getting “hip” to attract youth: mixing meditation sessions with DJ events and emoji-laden temple stays. Ven. Pomnyun, a revered Korean monk, uses humor and wisdom at events like Youth Festa, making Buddhism seem not just spiritual but downright cool.
Conventional Buddhism venerates a life of meditation, teaching, and service, which sometimes means a monk can be spotted giving career advice or DJing at youth festivals. In the West, Buddhist monks are often recognized by their robes, shaved heads, and knack for avoiding rush-hour traffic during walking pilgrimages. But don’t let their serene appearances fool you—they’re trained in everything from mindfulness to the art of eating enormous bowls of rice in record time.
Christianity: Where Abbeys Meet Ascetic Awkwardness
What about Christian monks? Catholic and Orthodox monks aren’t just about Gregorian chants and suspiciously strong cheese; they’re postgraduates of prayer, part-time penmen, and often accidental beekeepers. From St. Willibrord, who wore the religious habit at twenty and founded famous abbeys, to St. Engelbert, archbishop and martyr, monks and religious brothers follow the Christian calling to community life, prayer, and service.
The Christian monastic tradition emphasizes vows—poverty, chastity, obedience—and a sense that being a monk means waking up at “unspeakable o’clock” for prayers. Whether in the silence of Mount Athos or the bustling community halls of Utrecht, Christian monks are the backbone of religious devotion; their abbeys become places of education, meditation, and occasionally arguments over who gets what in the vegetable garden.
Father Ignatius tried to bring back monks to the English countryside, only for the world to prove too strong for his dream: lack of funds, lack of support, and a wardrobe only appreciated by artists. (Speaking of artists, Eric Gill, a Catholic convert and artist, blurred more than a few boundaries—in both artistic and spiritual senses—by founding quasi-monastic communities focused on prayer, art, and a commitment to continuous “eccentricity.”)
Hindu and Jain Monks: Ascetic All-Stars with a Flair for the Dramatic
Moving to India, Hindu and Jain monks walk a different but equally fascinating path. Hindu sadhus forsake ordinary life for spiritual pursuits—sometimes bathing in rivers, meditating in caves, and occasionally mystifying tourists with cryptic comments. Jain monks stand as the gold standard for non-violence; if Buddhism’s monks are all about inner peace, Jain monks are all about outer care—so careful, they’ll sweep insects away to avoid unintentional harm.
Why Do People Become Monks Anyway? (And Are They Allowed WiFi?)
The decision to become a monk usually results from a profound spiritual calling. But let’s not pretend it’s all solemnity—a good percentage of monks, like Ven. Pomnyun, seem to have a stand-up comedy routine ready for their moments in the teaching spotlight. The ancient disciplines might be demanding, but monks are often described as “the happiest people alive”—perhaps because nobody can knock on their door asking for overdue rent.
In Korea, monk numbers are down and Buddhist organizations are trying to make monasticism hip enough to compete with streaming services, viral dance trends, and squid games. Buddhist monks now host eco-friendly food festivals and zero-waste campaigns. Meanwhile, Christian monks might offer visitors relics, recipes, and a crash course in the lives of obscure martyrs, all before noon.
Monks and the Not-So-Holy Hiccups: Tradition Meets Modern Life
Of course, not everything about monastic religion is incense and enlightenment. Accountability issues arise (see the Geumsansa Temple investigation, where police probed allegations of embezzlement involving construction funds and slush money—monastic vows apparently do not immunize one from fiscal temptation). Monks, like everyone, can be swept up in controversies, and religious institutions face calls for reform, transparency, and just a smidge less “creative accounting.”
Yet despite hurdles—financial, cultural, or just plain existential—the religious monk remains a beacon of devotion, discipline, and occasionally, delightful oddness. The traditions they uphold span centuries and continents, offering everything from enlightenment to the world’s most tranquil selfie opportunities.
Which Religion Is Monks? The Mischievous Conclusion
So, what religion is monks? The answer is: multiple religions weave the monastic tradition, each with distinct practices, rules, and spiritual ambitions. Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Jainism (and, in rare cases, others) each have their own version of the monastic ideal: contemplation, service, discipline, and the quest for something greater than daily headlines or the next episode of your favorite show.
Whether trekking cross-country for peace, dancing at DJ-led temple bashes, or translating ancient manuscripts in candle-lit rooms, monks are united by a life set apart for faith. They’re not defined by a single religion, but by a shared pursuit: living out spiritual convictions in ways that make the rest of us think twice about our own priorities—and perhaps our early morning snooze buttons.
In the end, the answer may be simple, but the story is beautifully complex. “What religion is monks?” They are of many faiths—but all walking, chanting, praying (and sometimes, laughing) toward a truth deeper than any ordinary day.
