Education for monks in Hinduism?

Question

I am wanting to know what a Hindu priest,monk, or any authority figure; needs to have in order to obtain there position. Christian Priests go to University and study Catholic studies for years, so in order to be an authority in Hinduism, what do they need to take? How long do they have to go school?

Answer 1

This is in South india-I do not know
about north india.
(1) to be a House priest-7 yeras in Vedham (any one of 4 Vedham) in a Patasaala,from 8 th year of birth after Initiation(8+7=15 th year qualified)-he is called a Ganapaati.
(2)To be Preist in a temple-7 years in Aagamam(one of 28 Siva aagamams(Siva Aaachaariyar) or one of two(Paancharaathram or Vainaasikam ) Vishnu Aagamam(Vaishnavaachaaraya)(8+7=15th year)
(3)Odhuvaar (only in Siva temples);-7years(8+7=15) temple Religious Musician in Thevaara Palli
(40 Mariamman Temples:- no formal education.But only Family herarchial members.
(4) Monk's(Sanyaasi=Ascetic) life is very ,very difficult and pathetic.A person is selected for (Real) monk's life(there are Pseudo monks), only if there is "Parivraajaka Yogam'(a particular planatory combination) in his horescope(in Hindu religion).In South indian Hindu practice there is no Female (monk equivalents-Ascetics).The Ascetic designate should perform all his own last rites(performed after one's death) and then
his Guru(teacher monk0 would Initiate him to ascetic life-it is a long story.

Answer 2

Though the concept of 'untouchables' is now outlawed, the caste system in Hinduism is still very much in evidence and to be a Brahmin you have to be born to it. It's not really something you can just decide one day you fancy having a go at (unlike most other religions).

The Hare Krishna movement would probably be easier to become a 'priest' in.

There are Hindu faith schools in Britain now (about time too, everyone else has dedicated schools), I imagine children educated in those schools may become Hindu clergy if they wish.

Answer 3

training in philosophy etc. see the ramakrishna mission mnks et al. they ae trained for twelve years ad ost have at least a masters degree with many having PhDs.

Answer 4

I'm not too sure really. Here is a link.