Buddha Jewel Monastery

Gazing at the Buddha Jewel Monastery, one might sense a quiet hum of peace. It’s a former church building, now transformed into a serene space for Zen Buddhism and meditation. Buddha Jewel Monastery opened its doors in Seattle in September 2008. It serves as a branch of the Chung Tai Chan Monastery in Taiwan. The monastery’s relocation from Rainier Valley to Shoreline, just north of Seattle, was a significant step. The old space could only hold 30 people. The new location in Shoreline accommodates 100, with ample parking. This move also proved beneficial for sangha members coming from surrounding areas like Bellevue, Redmond, and even Vancouver, B.C., significantly reducing their commute time. Buddha Jewel Monastery offers a comprehensive curriculum of classes, guiding individuals from a basic to an advanced understanding of Buddhist principles and practices. The monastery’s goal is to serve the greater Seattle area. They aim to help people find inner peace and foster social harmony. They offer free classes and events in Zen Buddhism and meditation, supported by donations. Future plans include a remodel to further expand their offerings, with more classes for both adults and children. The monastery holds regular weekend events, including “one incense meditation” sessions, Buddhist ceremonies, and retreats. Buddha Jewel Monastery also carries on traditional Buddhist practices, such as the “Bathing the Buddha” ceremony. This ceremony includes a lamp offering, chanting, a dharma talk, meditation, and a meal offering and blessing. The monastery is one of eight U.S. branches of the Chung Tai organization, founded by Grand Master Wei Chueh. He modernized Buddhist teachings to fit modern life. Interestingly, Buddha Jewel Monastery is Chung Tai’s largest U.S. branch in terms of meditation hall size. It also holds the distinction of being Chung Tai’s highest global branch in terms of latitude. Buddha Jewel Monastery’s story began with Venerable Master Wei Chueh’s visit to Seattle in 1998. Ten years later, the monastery opened in Rainier Valley, eventually finding its current home in Shoreline.