Annual ‘Kathina’ Robe Offering Ceremony
4th November, 2007
Wat Phra Dhammakaya, Thailand
Kathina is the annual robe offering season for the monks. At the end of the Buddhist Lent period, it is time for the monks in the monasteries to get the new set of their robes. The set contains 3 distinct pieces, thus:
1. The outer robe
2. The sarong-like garment
3. The shoulder robe (blanket)
The word ‘Kathina’ itself refers to the wooden frame that hold tight the saffron clothes enabling monks sew them firm and neat. Kathina tradition was originated during the Lord Buddha’s time. It first happened when a group of 30 monks were on the way to meet Lord Buddha.
Unfortunately, they got stuck on the way in the rain. Through the muddy passage, their robes were dirty and shabby with mud. As a result, Lord Buddha granted permission for monks who completed their 3-month rains retreat to have a new set of saffron, so called “Kathina.” The period permitted is within one month after the lent period ends. Thus, Kathina is a time-limit opportunity for the robe offering.
At Dhammakaya Temple, this year, the Kathina Ceremony falls on 4th November 2007. Enjoy this day with all activities in meritorious atmosphere. Starting from alms-giving early in the morning, we will meditate together before giving lunch to thousands of monks. The highlight would be in the afternoon when all the Buddhist assembly will participate in the Kathina Robe Offering Ceremony. Be part of the robe parade or enjoy witnessing the endless line of it.
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06:15 a.m. |
Alms-Giving Ceremony |
09:30 a.m. |
Meditation and ceremony of offering the sustenance to the Lord Buddhas |
11:00 a.m. |
Lunch offering to the Sangha |
11:15 a.m. |
Lunch break |
01:15 p.m. |
Meditation and Joining the Robe Offering Ceremony |
03:30 p.m. |
Donation and short sermon session |
04:15 p.m. |
End |
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