The philosophy
What is Dudeism?
Dudeism takes its cues from Taoism, Zen Buddhism, Epicureanism, and the spirit of the film The Big Lebowski (1998). It is not satire. It is not a joke religion. It is a genuine, if gently held, spiritual framework for navigating a complicated world with as much ease as possible.
Founded in 2005 by Oliver Benjamin, the Church of the Latter-Day Dude has ordained hundreds of thousands of ministers worldwide. Its central text is the film; its central practice is abiding.
You can learn more and receive ordination at dudeism.com.
Our community
What is The Little Lebowski Church?
The Little Lebowski Church is a contemplative, creative, land-based spiritual community dedicated to the sacred art of abiding. We began as a traveling photo project and grew into a genuine community with a long-term physical vision: The Abiding Grove.
We are not the official Church of the Latter-Day Dude, though we share its spirit. We are our own expression of the Dudeist tradition — grounded, community-focused, and working toward something real.
Core teaching
What does it mean to abide?
"The Dude abides" is not a passive statement. Abiding is an active practice: it means remaining present and grounded while the world spins around you. It means not being dragged into every conflict. It means knowing the difference between what matters and what doesn't — and mostly letting the second category go.
It's harder than it sounds. That's why we practice.
Practice
Our core practices
Non-aggression
You don't have to fight everything. Most things sort themselves out.
Going with the flow
Wu wei — effortless action. Work with what is, not what you wish was.
Keeping your mind limber
Dogma is the enemy of abiding. Stay open. Stay curious.
Taking it easy
Not laziness — presence. The Dude is fully here, just without urgency.
Community and fellowship
The lanes are better with friends. Abiding alone is fine; abiding together is something else.
Stewardship of place
Care for the spaces you inhabit. The Grove is an expression of this.
Sacred symbols
Our sacred symbols
Bowling pins, rugs, robes, White Russians, and more — each symbol carries meaning in the Dudeist tradition.
See the sacred symbols →Prayer and reflection
Prayers and meditations
Tools for easing the mind, softening the shoulders, and remembering how to abide.
Read the prayers →How to participate