6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
New York (In-Person)
Prior attendance helpful
Dāna offerings welcome
Walk-ins welcome thereafter
A Day of Sīla, Samādhi & Paññā
The Monthly Sil Program is one of the most profound offerings of our center — a full day of practice rooted in the three pillars of the Buddha's path: ethical conduct (sīla), mental cultivation (samādhi), and wisdom (paññā). Participants undertake the Atthasil — the Eight Precepts — for the day. These include abstaining from taking life, from false speech, from intoxicants, and from eating after noon. Far from being restrictions, the precepts are experienced as a liberation: a release from the habitual pulls of the senses and a deepening of inner stillness. The day weaves together guided meditation, communal chanting, Dhamma teaching, shared vegetarian meals offered by the community, and periods of noble silence. It is an extraordinary container — rare to find in the heart of New York City.Day Schedule
A carefully balanced day that deepens with each passing hour.
Doors Open
Arrive early to settle in, remove shoes, take a cushion or chair, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before the session begins.
Guided Meditation
The program opens with a period of guided sitting meditation. The guidance is gentle and clear — suitable for those sitting for the very first time.
Dhamma Teaching
A teaching from the original Pali Canon led by our resident monk. Topics vary each month.
Q&A & Discussion
Open questions and discussion. No question is too simple or too advanced.
Close
The program closes with a short chanting of the Three Jewels and the sharing of merit.
What to Know Before You Come
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Loose, relaxed clothing is ideal. We sit on cushions on the floor — but chairs are always available if you prefer or need them.
Remove Your Shoes
Following the tradition of the monastery, shoes are removed at the entrance. We have a clean, welcoming space for this.
Arrive a Few Minutes Early
There is no late entry once the meditation begins, out of respect for those already sitting. Arriving 5–10 minutes early is encouraged.
Silence Your Phone
We ask that phones be switched to silent before the session begins. Photography is not permitted during the meditation.
Tea Offered Afterwards
After the formal session, we share tea and light refreshments. It's a lovely way to meet other community members.
No Special Beliefs Required
You do not need to be Buddhist, believe in anything, or have meditated before. All that is needed is an open and curious mind.
About the Sil Program
No booking is required. Simply arrive at around 8:15 AM on the 4th Sunday of the month. We welcome walk-ins — no reservation needed.
Absolutely. The program is specifically designed to be fully accessible to complete beginners. The monk will guide you through every step. Many of our most regular community members attended their very first meditation session here.
The session is rooted in the Buddhist tradition, but it is not a formal religious ceremony. Non-Buddhists — including Christians, Muslims, atheists, and people of no particular faith — attend every week and find real benefit. Meditation is first and foremost a mental training.
Yes, and we encourage it. First-timers often find it easier to attend with someone they know. There is no limit on how many people you bring.
All teaching and guidance is in English. Some short traditional Pali chants may be recited, but these will always be explained beforehand.
Street parking is available on the surrounding streets. We recommend allowing extra time on Sundays. Please see the contact page for full directions.
"Just as a candle cannot burn without fire, man cannot live without a spiritual life."— The Buddha
Join us for the next Sil Day
First time? Send us a message before you come — we'll make sure you're fully prepared. Doors open at 5:45 AM on the 2nd Sunday.