Ceremonial Almsgiving in Luang Prabang
The giving of alms or alms giving (offering food to monks) is a morning ritual in Theravada Buddhist countries especially Laos and Thailand. The first Buddhist monks were homeless sojourners who begged for all their food – their only possessions being an alms bowl (sometimes called a ‘begging bowl’ or in the Pali language a ‘patta’) and a robe. The giving and receiving of alms is not considered charity but a way to create a spiritual connection between monks and laypeople. We were privileged to witness this ceremonial alms giving in Luang Prabang, Laos
Giving Alms in Luang Prabang, Laos
Recently, while visiting Luang Prabang, Laos I had the opportunity to witness ‘tak bat’ the alms giving; one of the most enduring and vivid images of the city. It was drizzling rain and the skies were just beginning to reveal their gray and as we walked a few short blocks to Th Kamal Street, one of the most popular places to view the procession. The street was silent except for the sounds of crowing roosters and some stray dogs quarrelling over a few scraps.
See also:
- Photo: Monks on Mekong River Watching Dragon Boat Races
- Varanasi Images
- Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Temple)
The monks arrived clad in their saffron robes, walking single file with their alms bowls, on straps in front of them, and umbrellas over their heads. As they passed, eldest first, the laity, some standing – some kneeling, placed offerings of sticky rice, incense and flowers into the monk’s bowls. It all happened almost without sound. Only the rain and the monk’s bare feet padding on the pavement were could be heard. Even the dogs and the roosters seemed to keep a respectful silence as the procession passed.
Buddhist Monks Walking at Alms Giving Ceremony in Luang Prabang
It is important to remember that the tak bat alms giving ceremony in Luang Prabang is not a cultural show put on for the enjoyment of tourists but an age’s old religious ceremony to be respected. It is important to dress properly with shoulders, torso and legs covered. And you should remember to remove your shoes if you’re giving alms. Don’t take flash pictures which could disturb the monk’s walking meditation, don’t make inappropriate noise and stay out of the way of both the monks and the alms givers. Because some tourists can’t be respectful and follow the simple rules, some Lao officials are considering stopping the alms giving ceremony. That would be a shame.
Young Monks Walk Barefoot at Tak Bat, Luang Prabang Alms Ceremony
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