In the Southeast Asian nation of Laos, it’s common for boys and young men to temporarily commit to monkhood, even if they do not remain in service for the rest of their lives. This custom brings a merit to both the novice monks and their families. As the elder monks do, the boys shave their headsContinue reading “Photo du Jour: A Novice Monk in Luang Prabang, Laos”
Tag Archives: Buddhist monks
Photo du Jour: ‘Monk Beds’ in Luang Prabang, Laos
In Buddhism, it’s believed that followers can get good results by giving merit. One approach is by offering alms, either through a Tak Bat ceremony or by donating items to those who are leading a monastic lifestyle. In Luang Prabang’s Wat Xieng Thong temple courtyard, we happened upon this recently-donated stash of goods. There was everything fromContinue reading “Photo du Jour: ‘Monk Beds’ in Luang Prabang, Laos”
A Morning Almsgiving or Tak Bat Ceremony in Phonsavan, Laos
In Laos, as in other countries that practice Theravada Buddhism, it is customary for monks to go on early morning alms runs, known as tak bat. They do so with alms-bowls in hand, donning their traditional saffron robes and pounding the pavement or dirt roads with bare feet. Devotees place food — such as balls ofContinue reading “A Morning Almsgiving or Tak Bat Ceremony in Phonsavan, Laos”
Travels With Tricia 