About the Event
The Buddhist Lent Alms-Round features a solemn procession of monks receiving special offerings that will sustain them during the upcoming retreat period. Community members line the alms route, offering not only food but also candles, monk supplies, and other items needed for the three-month period. Following the alms-round, a special ceremony takes place where monks formally declare their intention to observe the Rains Retreat. Large beeswax candles, symbolizing the light of wisdom and the Buddha's teachings, are ceremonially lit and will be kept burning throughout the Lent period. The ceremony includes chanting, meditation, and Dhamma talks focusing on the significance of spiritual discipline and intensive practice. Many laypeople also take this opportunity to commit to special practices during the Lent period, such as temporarily observing additional precepts or giving up certain habits.
Requirements
- Arrive by 09:00 AM to prepare offerings and participate in the full ceremony
- Dress in white or light-colored modest clothing if possible
- Bring traditional offerings: food, large candles, monk requisites (robes, toiletries, study materials)
- Women should place offerings in the monks' bowls without direct physical contact
- Consider making a personal determination to observe special practices during the Lent period
- Families are encouraged to bring children to learn about this significant tradition
- Prepare to participate in the candlelight ceremony by bringing your own candle
- Those taking special precepts for Lent should inform the monks beforehand
- Maintain a contemplative, respectful demeanor throughout the ceremony
- Photography should be minimal and unobtrusive during ceremonial portions
This ceremony welcomes all community members to participate in marking the beginning of this sacred period of intensive spiritual practice. By supporting the monks entering retreat, participants make merit while connecting to a tradition that has continued unbroken since the time of the Buddha himself.
History of the Event
Buddhist Lent, known as "Khao Phansa" (Entering the Rains Retreat), marks the beginning of a three-month period during which monks traditionally remain in one place to study and meditate intensively. This tradition dates back to the Buddha's time, when he instructed monks to suspend their wandering during the monsoon season to avoid inadvertently harming crops and small creatures that emerge during the rains. The Buddha also recognized this period as ideal for focused spiritual practice. In Lao Buddhism, the beginning of Buddhist Lent coincides with the full moon day of the eighth lunar month (usually July) and is considered an especially auspicious time for making merit and beginning spiritual practices. The alms-round marking this occasion holds special significance as it represents the community's commitment to support the monks during their intensive practice period.