tudong

Tudong is a term derived from the Pali word "dhutaṅga," which refers to a set of ascetic practices adopted by some Buddhist monks, particularly in the Theravada tradition. These practices are voluntary and are undertaken to cultivate detachment from material possessions and worldly desires, thereby aiding spiritual development. The word "tudong" itself is a vernacular term used in Southeast Asia, notably in Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, to describe monks who are on a wandering pilgrimage.

Monks who practice tudong often live a very austere life, carrying only a few essential items such as their alms bowl, robes, a water filter, and a needle and thread. They typically travel on foot, often through forests and rural areas, sometimes for extended periods, relying on alms for sustenance. The practice emphasizes mindfulness, simplicity, and a deep connection with nature. It is seen as a way to gain wisdom through direct experience and to reduce attachment, which is considered a root cause of suffering in Buddhism. While not all monks in these traditions undertake tudong, it is a recognized and respected practice that embodies core Buddhist principles of renunciation and self-discipline.