Aruna Ratanagiri

Aruna Ratanagiri Buddhist Monastery

Aruna Ratanagiri, also known as Harnham Buddhist Monastery, is a Theravada Buddhist monastery situated in Northumberland, England. It is a part of the esteemed Thai Forest Tradition, a lineage known for its emphasis on monastic discipline and meditation in natural settings. The monastery serves as a vital sanctuary for the training and ongoing practice of bhikkhus, adhering strictly to the Pali Vinaya and the forest tradition originating from Northeast Thailand.

History and Establishment

The establishment of Aruna Ratanagiri arose from a growing interest in the Thai Forest Tradition within England, particularly in the northeast. In 1980, local yoga students sought a suitable retreat facility for the monastic community. Farmer John Wake of Harnham Hall generously offered one of his farm cottages for rent. The monastery officially opened on June 21, 1981, with Ajahn Sumedho presiding over the ceremony. Ajahn Sucitto was the first bhikkhu to reside there, commencing initial renovations. In the same year, the Magga Bhavaka Trust was formed to manage financial support, a role now undertaken by the Harnham Buddhist Monastery Trust.

Vision and Community Outreach

The core vision of Aruna Ratanagiri is to maintain a peaceful and suitable environment for the practice and development of Theravada bhikkhus, in line with the traditions of Northeast Thailand's forest monasteries. Beyond its monastic community, which typically numbers around eight Sangha members of diverse nationalities, the monastery extends its spiritual offerings to a wider audience. Through freely distributed literature and recorded Dhamma talks, regular discussion groups, and Sunday evening lectures, Aruna Ratanagiri provides spiritual guidance. Furthermore, the monastery hosts meditation retreats multiple times a year, welcoming practitioners from afar. Monks from Aruna Ratanagiri also regularly visit affiliated Buddhist meditation groups in Scotland and the northeast of England. The monastery also engages with non-Buddhist groups and individuals, including school and university visitors, to share knowledge about Buddhism and its practices.

Leadership

Aruna Ratanagiri has seen a succession of abbots since its inception. The current Abbot, Ajahn Munindo, has been leading the monastery since 1991. Previous abbots include Ajahn Sucitto (1981), Ajahn Viradhammo (1981–1983), Ajahn Anando (1983–1984), Ajahn Thiradhammo (1984–1987), and Ajahn Pabhakaro (1987–1990).