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by bowsamic 1493 days ago
Not true, in Tibetan Buddhism they have a strong tradition of solitary retreats in caves often for 9 years or more
2 comments

They'll often still interact with or encounter others during these long retreats though. Or, in Kukkuripa's case, at least their dog. [1]

Some friends/teachers of mine will maybe do 2-4 weeks solitary each year, but sangha is still important.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kukkuripa

The majority of monsatics across the bulk of traditions live communally, and Tibetian Buddhists are no exception.

The majority of monastic ascetic traditions include a small number of hermits, and Tibetian buddhists are no exception.

Those hermits do, occasionally, see other people, and it is important.