


The Four Noble Truths (Chattari Ariyasaccani) form the foundation of Buddhist philosophy. They were first taught by Gautama Buddha in his first sermon at Deer Park in Sarnath after attaining enlightenment...
Just as a potter shapes clay into a useful object, children can be molded into virtuous beings through proper guidance and education.
Build a community Where All Are Safe, Strong & Valued
California Vinaya Buddhist Vihara
The word ‘CALIFORNIA’ indicates the geographical location of the state and ‘VINAYA’ means leading out, education, discipline. ‘BUDDHIST VIHARA’ means Buddhist Church and numerous Buddhist worshiping places with the name of Vihara.‘VINAYA’ AND ‘VIHARA’ both words are commonly used in Buddhist tradition.
Vinaya( Pali and Sanskrit, literally meaning “leading out”, “education”, “discipline “,)is the regulatory framework for the Sangha or monastic community of Buddhism based on the canonical texts called the Vinaya pitaka. The teachings of the Gautama Buddha can be divided into two broad categories: dharma “doctrine “ and Vinaya “discipline “.
Vinaya is the disciplinary code for self training laid down by the Buddha for monks, nuns and lay devotees to observe. Vinaya plays a pivotal role in their monastic way of life.
According to the Buddha the best form of Vinaya was to discipline the mind, words and action. In the first category are the Universal laws which restricted all immoral and harmful evil deeds. The second category of rules applied almost directly to the monks and nuns in the observance of manners, traditions, duties, customs and etiquette.
The third category of the disciplinary code for lay devotees shows how a layman or laywoman can live a virtuous and noble life without renouncing the worldly life. The Buddha’s advice to lay people is contained in such discourses as the Mangala, Parabhava, Sigalovada, Vasala and Vygghapajja and many other discourses.
Many Vinaya rules apply only to those who have renounced worldly life. Of course a layman or laywoman may follow some of the rules if they help him to develop greater spirituality.
The important rule to be observed is that no immoral, cruel, harmful and indecent acts are created and that the sensitivities of others are respected. If the monks, nuns and lay people can lead their lives as honest, kind , harmless and understanding human beings by maintaining their human dignity and discipline, then such qualities will be appreciated in any part of the world. Maintaining the so-called traditions and customs of their respective countries of origin have little to do with the essence of the Dharma as taught by the Buddha
Meet Ven. Vinaya Nanda
Ven. Vinaya Nanda was born on January 1, 1973, in North Jaldi, Banskhali, Chittagong, Bangladesh, to Late Bibhuti Barua and Kusuma Barua. From an early age, he showed a deep interest in both education and spiritual practice, which laid the foundation for his future as a devoted Buddhist monk.
He holds academic degrees in Political Science (B.S.S. Honours, M.S.S) from Chittagong University, and a Bachelor of Education from Bangladesh National University. His religious education includes the title of Sutra Visãrada from the Pali and Sanskrit Board of Dhaka, a B.A. in Buddhist Philosophy (Special) from the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka, and a Graduation in Mahayana Buddhism from Peopsusa Sangha University, South Korea.
Ven. Vinaya Nanda received his Higher Ordination on June 24, 2005, for the second time in Sri Lanka, deepening his commitment to the monastic path. Through his life of study, discipline, and service, he continues to inspire others with the teachings of the Buddha, promoting peace, compassion, and mindful living.
Gallery
What We Do
01.
— We Strengthen
We strengthen our hearts with compassion, as it opens the path to peace. Through compassion and wisdom, we fortify the heart to embrace all beings.
02.
— We Build Networks
Each thought and gesture strengthens the network of unity among all beings.Through mindful actions, we weave a web of compassion and trust.
03.
— We Find & Fund
Through mindful giving, we fund hope and create paths for a brighter future.In our unity, we find the strength to uplift the orphaned and bring healing.
04.
— We Educate
We educate with wisdom, nurturing minds to seek the truth.We educate not just with words, but with the example of a mindful life.
05.
— We Provide Care
We provide care with a heart full of compassion and understanding.Care is a gift, and we give it freely to all who are in need.
06.
— We Consult
We consult with wisdom, listening deeply to understand the true needs.Through mindful guidance, we help others find their path with confidence.








