A 14th-century old Lao tradition still thrives in Luang Prabang, Laos – the Alms Giving Ceremony. A sacred practice performed by the Buddhist monks living in the Lao temples. These monks walk in procession to collect alms (food usually rice, fruits, and snacks) from the locals kneeling or sitting along the side of the roads. Locals do this to gain merit for their lives and the food collected by the monks serves as their meals for the day.
I asked for information from the hostel where I was staying about this ceremony. Luckily and coincidentally, the hostel attendant which is now my friend used to be a monk himself. I found myself smiling for the universe has been helpful with my travel adventures. So I asked him where I could watch this activity and he simply said: “just right outside the hostel”.
So I woke up as early as 4:45 am the next day. I waited outside the hostel with my camera ready and a cup of coffee. It was already past 20 minutes, drank all my coffee but there was still no sign of the monks. I asked my friend nervously if the monks were really going to pass that side of the road. He assured me confidently. As we waited a few more minutes, I asked him for the do’s and don’t’s when it comes to observing this ancient practice. It is very important to be a responsible traveler and give the utmost respect for these sacred rituals and practices.
So here are a few things to keep in mind when observing the alms giving ceremony:
- Take photos from a distance preferably across where the monks are passing by.
- Camera Flash is a big NO.
- Silence is a must.
- No talking to the monks.
- Don’t hinder their path.
As the sky started to lit up, men clad in bright orange robes walked barefoot in one single line carrying what seems like a pot where they collect the gifts given by the locals waiting silently along the pavement. I was mesmerized by the sight I witnessed. Buddhist monks of old age lead the group while the young ones followed behind. The devotion of these alms givers was evident. The monks walked past in a meditative silence.
The sun was finally coming out and I decided to walk further down the road at a near intersection. There were other travelers like me also observing from a distance. As I stood there, different groups of monks came from other directions and collected their alms as well. They finished this ceremony by chanting prayers to the almsgiver. As soon as they were done, the Buddhist monks went on their way while the locals tidied up their belongings and left.
As for me, I headed my way back to my hostel. My friend asked me how was the experience and I told him it was amazing. Amazing in a sense that I get to witness a 14th-century sacred tradition that still is being practiced to this day. I hope that this will continue to thrive in the future preserving Laos’ cultural heritage.
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