ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Pabbajja

Pabbajja is when someone becomes a monk or nun in Buddhism. It's kind of like a big decision to become a special kind of person who is dedicated to following the teachings of the Buddha.

Before someone can become a monk or nun, they have to go through a special ceremony called pabbajja. During this ceremony, they have to shave their head and wear special clothes, like a robe. They also have to ask a senior monk or nun if they can become one. If the senior monk or nun says yes, then the person can become a monk or nun.

Being a monk or nun means that you have to follow certain rules, like not eating after noon and not having lots of possessions. You also have to meditate and study the teachings of the Buddha.

So, pabbajja is a special ceremony that happens when someone decides to become a monk or nun in Buddhism. It's kind of like a big, grown-up decision to follow the teachings of the Buddha and live a different kind of life.