The center is home to residents residing in a 9 bedroom hermitage in Hendersonville, NC. The entire lower level of the center is dedicated for sangha use and is home to public talks, studies, and evening practices. It is also available for individual practice and study. Contact us for details and see the calendar for current offerings.
History as a Monastery
Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order
Venerable Pannavati, Maha Theri (deceased) and Venerable Pannadipa, Maha Thero (deceased) founded Embracing Simplicity Hermitage, a 21st century trans-lineage Buddhist Order in 2004. Ven. Pannavati ordained in Theravada and Mahayana traditions with certain Vajrayana empowerments. So, Heartwood, since its inception, has been neither defined by a single lineage, nor confined by any single sect or practice. In the past, Embracing Simplicity offered both lay ordination and Theravada monastic ordination. Venerable Pannavati pointed to the Buddha’s last instructions prior to entering parinirvana regarding the vinaya. He said, “After I am gone, if the sangha wishes, Ananda, it may abolish the lesser and minor rules.” It is said that out of respect, the sangha changed nothing. Is it possible that in His infinite wisdom, the Buddha understood that what was a support in that place and time could become an impediment today, hindering the flourishing of contemporary Buddhist monasticism?
