18/07/2016
Wan Khao Phansa is observed for a period of three lunar months during the rainy season when monks are required to remain in one particular place or temple. So, share with us if you have your own rain retreat this year and where would it be?
Tomorrow marks the beginning of a special time for Buddhists in Luang Prabang. Known as Khao Phansa or Buddhist Lent, it starts on the full moon, and is a time when monks will stay at the same temple for three months to devote their energy to meditation and Buddha's teachings. During this time many locals will also commit to a more Buddhist way of life - some will give up eating meat or spend more hours each day in the temple in meditation.
You will notice more people than usual taking part in alms-giving (known as Sai Bat) tomorrow morning which begins at 5.30am and takes place on the main streets around the town.
If you would like to take part or watch this special act of religious devotion, please read the information below and feel free to share this post:
1. Observe the ritual in silence and contribute an offering only if it is meaningful for you and you can do so respectfully
2. If you do not wish to make an offering, please keep an appropriate distance and take care not get in the way of the monk procession or those making offerings
3. For offerings, buy sticky rice at the local market earlier that morning or the vendors who prepare to sell the rice at points along the monks’ route
4. Do not stand too close to the monks when taking photographs; also, camera flashes are very disturbing for both monks and local people
5. Dress appropriately: shoulders, chests and legs should be covered
6. Do not make physical contact with the monks and try to stay at least 5 metres away from monks if you are observing the ceremony
7. Remember that large buses are forbidden within the Luang Prabang World Heritage site and are extremely disturbing in this context. Never follow the procession on a bus, as this will put you above the monks, which in Laos is disrespectful
8. Take part in the alms giving ceremony by protecting its dignity and its beauty.
Photo credit: Jack Kurtz (kurtzjack.photoshelter.com)