Sociology 10

2.  Back Row (Left to Right):Stacy Gonzalez, Joe
Sepulveda, Brenda Landeros, Jennifer Garant.
Front Row (Left to Right): Guest, Azalea
Aragundi, Vicky Guzman.

3.  Dhammakaya means body of reality and one
of the volunteers at the center said that this
practice was discovered by Venerable Chao
Khun Phra Mongkol-Thepmuni and
rediscovered by Luang Pu Wat Paknam in the
1900’s after this practice was not being taught
for over 400 years after the death of Buddha.
This practice is very popular in Thailand and
has been passed on and now practiced
globally.

4.  From the moment a child is born, a monk begins his journey
first as a novice. A novice does not become a monk until the
age of 20, and are refrained from interacting with any foul play
activities such as sexual intercourse, drugs, alcohol, and are
also not allowed to have a relationship, get married or eat
dinner. Monks do not eat dinner for the purpose that making
meals take too much time away from study, which they are
advised to do as much as possible throughout the day.
Instead, monks go into their fellow neighborhoods and villages
to obtain food using a bowl. In respect to the individuals giving
the monks nourishment, they are required to eat all the food
given to them in the bowl. Not doing so is considered rude.
Monks also wear the orange attire in the belief of doing
so, they will scare away animals. Monks engage in the practice
of eating fresh whole foods and fruits, keeping their bodies
pure and rich.

5.  The Buddhist culture believe in engaging five of the most important precepts, which
monks also practice as well. Some go as far as doing 200!
 1. The first precept implies the rights of all living beings to protect and preserve their
life. It also implies the impotence of love and compassion for all.
 2. The second precept signifies an individual’s rights for the possession as well as the
protection of wealth rightly acquired. It also stresses the importance of right livelihood.
 3. The third precept, not to indulge in sexual misconduct, teaches one to respect one’s
own spouse as well as those of others, including by extension, all things that are near
and dear to them. It is, moreover intended to inculcate in man self restraint and a
sense of social propriety.
 4. The fourth aims at preserving man’s credibility, upon which rests his
honor, dignity, and trustworthiness. It makes man honest and healthy.
 5. The last precept intends to keep man healthy physically, mentally, and morally. It
helps him to maintain his sense of responsibility in thought and action – something not
possible when one is under the spell of drinks or drugs.
 When we asked a monk which precept was most important, he replied, “Number five”.

6.  Meditation is used to help the body, mind and soul relax. There is a certain form one must perform
in order to achieve maximum relaxation. You must shut your body off, focus on your center and
remember all the seven bases of your body.

7. These are photos of the meditation rooms where followers of the
Buddhist culture and monks gather to have service, ceremonies and
embrace relaxation. We were privileged to be allowed to obtain
photos of such historical meaning and beauty.

9.  The Following Sociological Terms will be used from our lecture notes, Martian’s Guide, and The Practical Skeptic Guide:
 Culture Shock: “When people enter into a new cultural context, they sometimes become overwhelmed or confused.” (The
Martian’s Guide, Chapter 3)
 Culture: “The conditions and realities resulting from all aspects of human beliefs, creativity, thoughts, institutions, norms, and
traditions. These conditions are passed down from generation to generation.” (The Martian’s Guide, Chapter 3)
 Values: “Refer to the principles, standards, or qualities considered worthwhile or desirable by a culture or group.” (The
Martian’s Guide, Chapter 3)
 Subculture: “A smaller group within a culture that has its own values, beliefs, or shared goals that are distinct from those of
the larger society.” (The Martian’s Guide, Chapter 3)
 Socialization: “Lifelong process by which people acquire cultural competency and through which society perpetuates the
fundamental nature of existing social structures and institutions.” (McIntyre, 2006, p. 144)
 Non-Material Culture: “Refers to those aspects of culture we cannot accesss directly with our sense.” (The Martian’s
Guide, Chapter 3)
 Social Norms: “ The rules that a group uses for appropriate and inappropriate values, beliefs, attituteds and behaviors.”
(www.dictionary.com)
 Beliefs: “Mental acceptance of and conviction in the truth, actuality, or validity of something.” (www.dictionary.com)

10.  While visiting the Dhammaka International Meditation in Azusa with my group I was expecting to experience
Culture shock: Extreme discomfort experienced by individuals encountering a new culture that challenges their
worldviews (McIntyre, 2006, p. 106) however, Ms. Vee, a volunteer at the meditation center, was very welcoming
and inviting. She explained the Dhammaka (Buddhism) Culture: The set of ideas and things handed down from
generation to generation in a particular group or society; culture is both a product of people’s actions and a
constraint on their actions (McIntyre, 2006, p. 95) to us, what we could expect while visiting. We were able to
participate in the Mediation class, which was very relaxing, as well as the food offering ceremony to the monks.
We were afforded the opportunity to join the monks, members and guest for lunch.
 Before the meditation class began we were greeted by Ms. Vee who explained to us to process of becoming a
monk, the Values: Abstract ideas about what is good and what is bad; shared by people in a society
(McIntyre, 2006, pp. 101-103) of the Buddhist religion, the beliefs behind meditation and the Subculture: A group
of people who’s shared specialized values, norms, beliefs, or use of material culture sets them apart from other
people in society (McIntyre, 2006), within the Dhammaka society, the requirements or precepts in becoming a
monk as well as the precepts of Buddhist.
 At the beginning of the mediation class we were educated about the 5 precepts of the Buddhist religion, instructed
on how to focus our energy and clear our mind. I have never meditated or participated in a yoga class, I found this
experience to be very relaxing, energizing and found a new respect for the power of serenity. We were allotted the
opportunity to listen to regular attendee’s experiences and methods of meditation. I found the experience to be
informative as well as relaxing.
 I was offered the opportunity to participate in a food offering ceremony, to simulate the food offerings that the
monks take place in throughout their village. This was a new experience for me. Following the food offering, we
were invited to join the monks and members for lunch. The Socialization: Lifelong process by which people
acquire cultural competency and through which society perpetuates the fundamental nature of existing social
structures and institutions (McIntyre, 2006, p. 144) that takes place among the monks was intriguing.
 My overall experience was very relaxing, informative, welcoming and eye opening. I was impressed by how
welcoming everybody was, instructing us of the do’s and don’ts, allowing us to take apart of the sacred
ceremonies, informing us of the Dhammaka believes. I truly enjoyed every moment of the experience and I am
thankful for the opportunity to broaden my beliefs (written by Brenda Landeros)

11.  Being in Dhammakaya Int. Center was a place of positive vibes. I felt
like a stranger in a strange land in a non-material culture. Such
as why do Monks wear only orange? Was belief to protect them from
wild animals. As well as the color of choices in the building. Its how
strong the belief they have that over powers your senses and lets
you know its there. Such as the Meditation, a strong belief of inner
peace and being one with the self.
 I had brought my daughter with me to this field trip and they treated
us so respectfully and even took care of her. I felt so blessed and
they do have kindness and inner peace in them. Made me realize
how strong their belief was and it showed in the outside as well. Me
and my daughter had an amazing experience and even participated
in their traditions. (written by Azalea Aragundi)

12.  When I attended the Dhammakaya International Mediation Center (DIMC) it was quite an experience. As I
arrived I saw some doors that looked like hotel rooms; next to one another. There were three people
around and they were wearing all white. As other peers arrived they quickly came and greeted them. One
thing I mainly noticed was that they were friendly. While I was walking up to the entrance there was a
gardener; he immediately greeted me. He said hello with a big smile. I walked up to the main entrance
and seen a rack specified for shoes. I thought to myself I hope I don’t have to take my shoes off. Sure
enough when the lady came out; she said please take off your shoes. I did not have any socks on, so I
was extremely embarrassed. When I walked in the carpet was nice and fluffy with a lot of padding.
Everything was white because it was a calm relaxing color. That was the main representation of the
room, was to claim peace and joy.
 My overall feeling of this culture was not as culture shock as I thought I would be. I honestly had so many
other ethnocentrism feelings about it. But, it was nothing as I expected it to be. It reminded me of my semi
religion beliefs. As a Catholic a priest cannot be married, have a girlfriend, or kids. Monks roles in life are
a little more restricted in socialization. They are more isolated than others. They are not allowed to watch
movies, play video games, and basically have an average person’s life. Although they are not in Thailand
anymore they still follow their cultures beliefs. Their main focus is to meditate. I really enjoyed the
meditation session. At the beginning I had an urge of anxiety. Than as he was leading us I started to feel
relaxed and sleepy. I wasn’t sure if it was because I was over exhausted, but I felt like I was going to fall
off of my chair. As it progressed it felt smoothing I couldn’t get my thoughts to the center which they claim
is the stomach. But I did feel relaxed my body was heavy. When we were finished he asked if we felt the
mediation long or short. If we felt it short we did it right; if it was long we had more practice to do. I really
enjoyed the visitation and participation I played in their system. I would strongly recommend friends and
family to visit. (written by Vicky Guzman)

13.  When I first arrived to the Dhammakaya Meditation Center, I was completely lost and confused. I
wasn't sure where the entrance was located or who to speak too. My best friend was kind enough to
accompany me along the trip. We were both in shock but at the same time amazed by how beautiful
the scenery was. The location looked just like a mini village on top of a mountain. There were clouds
embedded at the top, a cold breeze coming in and buildings surrounded the perimeter. My best friend
had made a comment saying it looked a lot like a rehabilitation center, and come to find out it use to
be. When we entered inside one of the main corridors, we were greeted by a very friendly woman,
whose name I was unfortunate not to obtain. She offered us coffee, snacks and free DVD's and
pamphlets to help ourselves. We were then greeted by Ms. Vee who was going to be our tour guide
for the day. As we waited for the rest of the group, we were asked to take our shoes off since it is
considered rude and dirty to walk around such a professional and pure sanction where monks live in.
We were more than happy to do so but I kept telling my friend I feel rude and naked walking around
without shoes. I grew up in a household where my mother made us wear shoes inside our home and
others, so already I was experiencing some culture shock; “When people enter into a new cultural
context, they sometimes become overwhelmed or confused.” (The Martian’s Guide, Chapter 3) .
 Ms. Vee went on to escort us around the premises and sat us around to explain the story of the
Dhammakaya. She also answered many questions we had about the culture like "Why do monks
wear orange?" or "How does one become a monk?" She was very polite and informative and because
of her, we had a very enjoyable trip. My favorite part of the trip was the meditation class. We were
taken into a small room where a monk was seated in front of us guiding us along the meditation. He
explained the importance of meditation and the correct way of doing it. The meditation lasted about
45 minutes but felt much shorter than that. This is an experience I will never forget because for the
first time in a very long time I felt a sense of peace and relaxation. I would recommend anyone who is
interested to go to this location. It was by far the best choice in my personal opinion and I plan on
returning some time again. (written by Stacy Gonzalez)

14.  As I was in the room for the meditation, they provided a clear crystal ball to
help bring an image for the meditation process. The monk said that it
symbolizes clarity and pureness to bring upon your inner self. The purpose
of this meditation practice is to meditate to bring inner peace to oneself and
by doing this it will bring world peace and it is also believed that it was the
original Buddha teachings. If you are just starting to meditate, you could also
visualize this crystal ball going up into your nose and into your mind and into
your inner being which is located at the top of your stomach, which is two
finger widths above your naval. Their body language is positioned with their
back straight, sitting Indian style or in a chair with legs apart and hands
apart. One method of the meditation is to imagine 7 different positions in
your body of where you are to have this invisible sphere or “crystal ball”
enter and position itself in position 7 which is considered to be your inner
being (two inches above the naval) and meditation stage. As they are
finished meditating they chant a mantra, “soha” or “padme” while having
their hands together in what Christian and Catholic religions call prayer
hands. This is a type of body language also used while offering food to the
monks. (written by Jennifer Garant)

15.  During my visit to the Meditation center, I witnessed a
ceremony of worship. A large group of people were
praising there lord Buddha by chanting various
mantras, in there native language Thai. There was
over 40 people chanting and clapping, and lifting there
hands.
 This was there social norm & beliefs as a group of
people by doing such acts of worship, they were
bringing peace to there surrounding and honoring
there lord.
 As me being a outsider, I didn’t understand there
language our culture and choose not to participate in
there lifting hands. (written by Joe Sepulveda)

16.  Each member was responsible for writing down their own personal
experience about the trip, as well as integrating the sociological terms within
our experience. We all shared photos and video of what we believed would
depict the best images of our trip. Brenda Landeros, Azalea Aragundi and
Stacy Gonzalez were responsible for setting meeting locations, choosing the
location, times and dates for weekly group updates, and group project
deadlines. Vicky Guzman, Joe Sepulveda and Jennifer Garant were
responsible for obtaining information about the center, obtaining photos and
video. All the group members were responsible for networking with others
around the mediation center to give each other feedback and a better
understanding about the cultural background. Overall, every group member
did a great job in keeping up with each other via email, text messaging and
writing forums in order to make sure that every member was up to date on
what was going on. Brenda Landeros, Jennifer Garant and Azalea Aragundi
participated in the food offering ceremony at the Dhammakaya Meditation
Center, and Stacy Gonzalez was responsible for putting the Power Point
together. No one did more or less work than the others and we all spread out
the work evenly.

17.  Food we got to enjoy… For FREE!
We weren't ready 

18.  As many of us entered the center, we were welcomed by a wonderful
women, who took the day out to give us a tour around the meditation center.
She gave us lecture and information guides, as well as booklets and cd’s so
that we could better understand the Buddhist culture. Meet Ms. Vee! She
was extremely helpful and we all felt very lucky to have her by our side
throughout this cultural journey. (written by Stacy Gonzalez)

19.  The monks believe that if you save an animal from being killed and releasing it back to
nature, that the Kama will reward you with health and prosperity. The Kama is best known
as karma, what goes around comes around. Every second Sunday of the month, the
temple buys catfish and releases it into a pond or lake and this symbolizes saving a life
and you are given a life or positive energy. They also believed that this would relieve your
loved ones from suffering. (written by group member Jennifer Grant)

20.  A food offering was held after meditation class. The food offering is an offering to the
monks. We replicated an example of what monks do when they are offered food from
the people in the village. We were blessed enough to be asked if any of us wanted to
be a part of the ceremony. A special thanks to our group members Jennifer
Garant, Brenda Landeros and Azalea Aragundi for participating. (written by Stacy
Gonzalez)

21.  As I participated in the food offering for the monks, they were recreating an old ritual as used in the
Buddhist practices. What they do is sit around and the monks go around this circle and collect the
food from those around. Each food item that is given to the monk has to be blessed by the person
giving it and the gesture is the prayer hands for each item that is given. All the food that is given to
them has to be eaten all so they don’t eat dinner because they eat all that food that is given to
them in the offering and they also cannot eat if the food is not given to them. So the monks fully
depend on the people to feed them. Although this was what the offering used to be, the offering
now is the people only giving the dry food which symbolized the cooked food that used to be
offered to the monks years ago. After the food items are given to the monks by the people, the
chant the mantra again, “soha” or “padme”. (written by group member Jennifer Garant)

22.  There was 3 different symbols that were of significance to the
Buddhism religion, their master Luang Phor, the crystal ball
and the gold statue.
 Luang Phor was a man who was born in the 1800’s and at the
age of 22 became a monk, and went on to teach Buddhism to
the masses and the art of meditation.
 The crystal ball is a symbol used as a focal point when trying
to reach the depths of meditation. As we were explained that
we must train the mind to gain more conciseness.
 The gold statue stands for the core mediation stance, the
heart of the lower stomach.
 (Slide written by Joe Sepulveda)

23.  DearProfessor Lynn Navarette, we all just
want to say thank you for embedding this
opportunity for us to learn something new.
As a group we all enjoyed this amazing
opportunity and we hope you enjoyed our
work! In conclusion, this was an adventure
none of us will soon forget.