ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Monastic examinations

Monastic examinations are tests that monks take to show how well they've learned about religious teachings and practices. These exams are similar to tests you take in school, except they focus on things like meditation, prayer, and scripture.

The exams can be really tough, and sometimes the monk has to study for years before they're ready to take them. But passing the exams is super important because it shows that the monk is knowledgeable about their faith and is committed to their religious practice.

During the exams, the monk is asked questions and has to show that they can perform certain rituals or recite certain prayers correctly. The exams are usually taken in front of a group of other monks and religious leaders who are there to judge whether the monk performed well enough to pass.

Monks who pass their exams are sometimes given new ranks or titles within their religious community, which is a big honor. And even if they don't pass the first time, monks can keep studying and trying again until they pass.