An estimated 350 Theravada Buddhist temples are in the United States, housing more than 1,000 monks, according to Paul Numrich, professor at the Theological Consortium of Greater Columbus, Ohio.
They are five of the 75 Buddhist temples in the Chicago area, according to the Buddhist Council of the Midwest.
Theravada is considered the oldest and most traditional school of Buddhism. It is practiced primarily in South and Southeast Asia, with sub-branches in several countries. Most of the Theravada monks in the U.S. travel here from other countries, often on temporary religious visas.
They follow the Vinaya, an ancient text governing monastic life, which calls for the automatic expulsion of those who break the vow of celibacy.
The monks symbolize the overcoming of human desire in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, Numrich said. By feeding and supporting the monks, laypersons can gain blessings and spiritual merit in the next life, he said.
