Early Buddhist monks were followers of the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha. They lived a life of simplicity and renunciation, dedicating themselves to meditation, ethical conduct, and the pursuit of enlightenment. Monastic communities, or sanghas, were established to support their spiritual practices and foster a sense of community among practitioners. These monks played a crucial role in spreading Buddhism across Asia. They traveled to teach the Buddha's teachings, known as the Dharma, and established monasteries that served as centers for learning and meditation. Their commitment to the monastic lifestyle helped preserve and transmit Buddhist teachings for future generations.