Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is CNS only for devoted Buddhists who must be very  knowledgeable in Buddhism?

   
   No. This camp is meant for beginners who have little or no Buddhism knowledge. We will learn the Buddhism together! Seniors will be around to share their Buddhism knowledge as well.

   
   
   
2. Are we going to chant, attend Dharma talks and meditate all the time?
   

   
   No. Fun and meaningful activities, which help to enhance the learning of the Dharma and strengthen the bond between group members, are incorporated into this camp also. We will learn the Dharma in a more lively way!

   
   
   
3. Do we live like the monks and nuns? Do we have to observe any precepts or rules?

   
   No, we do not live like monks and nuns. Monks and nuns observe a lot of precepts. Laypeople like us are not required to follow all the precepts observed by monks and nuns.
   
   However, in this camp, we will encourage all participants to observe the five precepts. The five precepts include:

   • To abstain from killing or harming living beings
   • To abstain from taking what is not given
   • To abstain from sexual misconduct
   • To abstain from lying and false speech
   • To abstain from the abusive consumption of intoxicants and drugs
   
   

   These five precepts help us to cultivate morality. The practice of morality is a way to overcome our ill-will. In fact, these precepts are practiced by most of us in daily life.
   
   Besides, we need to obey the rules set by the temple such as reduce our noise level in shrines and no vulgarities or rowdy behaviours. Our activities will be conducted in appropriate places where some noise is allowed.

   
   
   
4. I am a NTU freshmen but I am not a Buddhist. Can I still join CNS?

   
   Yes. CNS is opened to all NTU freshmen who are interested to know more about Buddhism regardless of which religion you belong to. As long as you are interested to know more about Buddhism and would like to get to know more friends in the new environment, you are welcomed to join CNS.

   
   
   
5. What kind of meals are served during the camp?

   
   Vegetarian food will be provided to all participants and committee members during the camp.
   
   People become a vegetarian due to various reasons. One of the reason is to cultivate compassion. Animals suffered and are killed because of our demand for meat. In order to abstain form killing animals, we will have vegetarian food in camp so that participants and the organizing committee can cultivate compassion together. We will prepare vegetarian meals that are well-balanced in term of nutrients.

If you have any further enquiries, feel free to contact us. We will get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you.