Khao Phansa day 2020 in Wang Burapha, our village
The first day of Khao Phansa is kicked off with a service at temples nationwide. Khao Phansa is often called ‘Buddhist Lent’. Chulaborn Graduate Institute describes it thusly: “... this 3 month period is the time to attain the dharma, i.e. to do spiritual training. So the devotees stay away from all causes of disasters or sins by giving up alcoholic drink, smoking, and meat eating. In addition, they spend more of the time training their mind by studying the dharma or Buddha’s teachings, chanting prayers, meditating, and listening to sermons delivered by monks.” For instance giving up alcohol or cigarettes are common during this three month period. It normally begins on the first day after the first full moon in July. T his also formally kicks off the rainy season where monks were unable to travel between temples. Wherever the monks are on this day, they will stay for 3 months. During this ceremony people make merit by bringing ‘gifts’ for the monks. Toothpaste, bottled wat