Tradition, tradition, tradition .....

Tradition is defined in the Dictionary.com as a continuing pattern of culture beliefs or practices. And one of special Thai traditions is the way people celebrate the End of Buddhist Lent. The lent takes place from July through October, during the rainy season when the Buddhist monks practice their annually three-month Rains Retreat. The end of the lent is widely celebrated throughout the country.

Upon our move to Chiang Rai, we had a chance to be new on-lookers of a small part of this celebration at Wat MingMuang. 

It was the time when the people gather to do what was referred to in Thai as "June-la-ga-tin," or the one-day preparation for the new robes for the monks. They started from carding cotton, spinning, plying, weaving, dying washing & drying, cutting and sewing. We went there at night time and many activities took place. 

In the courtyard, there were dances and also a dedication ceremony of the merit makers. Inside the assembly building, people were bustling with the robe-making process. 

Meanwhile the building for worship of which housed Buddha Images remained brightly illuminated but tranquil.

We were overwhelmingly at awe with all that was happening right before our eyes and all around us. Everything was just so colorfully beautiful. The air was cool and pleasant. The breeze was gentle and constant. The sights and sounds all around were incredibly in harmonious. Faith was delicately professed in various aspects of deeds and activities. Everyone was absorbed with what they were doing. All shared a one high hope that all robes would be finished and properly prepared for the very soon coming morning presentation to the monks when the final rite would be conducted.

The night wore on so quickly. Finally, the weaving was completed, the newly woven material were dyed, washed and dried. The weaving crew took apart their contemporary loom and prepared to retire. People came to touch the new piece. Everyone wore such a peaceful solemn look. The sewing crew took charge. The outside entertainment changed from dancing to Thai classical live music. Smiles were shared and exchanged. 

We wished so hard to stay on, but reluctantly decided to leave. It was getting too late of the night. Off we went on home, warmth wrapped around our hearts as we thought on the spectacular beauty of the tradition observed here in the north at the end of the Buddhist Lent. We were grateful for a precious chance to be there.

Traditions have been handed down from generations. People observe their traditions and practice their faith. Life goes on and on till we no longer stop to comfort ourselves of why we do what we have been doing, for it is simply a TRADITION.

Photographs: Courtesy to Kanit and IngSong