A ceremony is conducted by monks during Buddhist Lent, during which they invite residents to bring them food while beating drums.
Lao: End of Buddhist Lent Day 2023: The End of Buddhist Lent Day celebration is traditionally held on an October full moon. The day will be observed on October 28 this year. The natives of Laos refer to it as “Boun Awk Phansa,” during which they partake in festive activities and observe traditional rituals. The ceremony signifies the Buddhist priests’ return from meditation retreats after a three-month hiatus. Monks are not permitted to exit the pagoda beneath which they meditate during this time. Residents furnish them with essential items including food, towels, soap, and slippers, in addition to daily necessities like toothbrushes, given their inescapable domestic confinement.
Lent as a Buddhist observance originated in the fifth century. In the eighth month, on the first day of the waning moon, monks make a solemn vow to reside in a specific location for three months. In accordance with a principle established by Lord Buddha. Laos experiences heavy rainfall from July to September; during this time, it is common for itinerant priests to seek refuge in pagodas and monasteries. Monks are expected to study Buddhist doctrines and subsequently disseminate them to commoners during this time. It is strictly prohibited for them to vacate the premises or spend the night elsewhere.
During these three months, not only priests but also Buddhist adherents are required to abstain from consuming alcoholic beverages and drugs. The inhabitants congregate in monasteries to meditate and hear the priests preside over sermons. Typically, the final day of Buddhist Lent occurs in October, signifying the conclusion of the monastic order’s yearly retreat. The day is filled with numerous celebrations, including candlelight processions and boat competitions. Along the Mekong, individuals from Laos congregate to release banana fronds adorned with candles and flowers. According to a local idiom, the Mekong is home to Nagas, mythical water dragons said to shoot fireballs on the final night of Buddhist Lent. River bank spectators from throughout Laos congregate to observe this spectacle.
By attending sermons and adhering to the precepts, commoners are expected to increase their understanding of Buddhism and its fundamentals. The purpose of the tradition is, in a sense, to educate adherents about the religion so that they may observe it properly.
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Donate money, garments, or food to the monks residing at a nearby monastery. Why not continue your visit by participating in a meditation session?
A canoe race is annually organized in the province of Luang Prabang, Laos, in observance of Buddhist Lent. Appearing at the event would be an excellent opportunity to participate in the excitement by cheering on the running teams.
Even if you are unable to participate in a procession, you may still observe Laotian customs. Buddhists in Laos float water dragons, floral boats, and candles down the Mekong River on the final day of Lent. The sight is positively enchanting.
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| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | October 10 | Monday |
| 2023 | October 28 | Saturday |
| 2024 | October 18 | Friday |
| 2025 | October 7 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | October 5 | Monday |
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