Thod Kathin Robes Offering Ceremony 2024 in Thailand

Following the end of Buddhist Lent (Awk Phansa), new robes and offerings are presented to the monkhood during the annual thod kathin or kathina ceremony. Various events are organized during this period, particularly in Bangkok, where royal ceremonies often take place. Thai Buddhists bring numerous offerings to different monasteries, with many making merit at Wat Arun in Bangkok.

Details of the Ceremony

During the Kathina ceremony, monks receive new robes and other gifts at temples where they have spent time in retreat. This gift serves as a reward for their commitment to study, teaching, and contemplation during the three-month rainy season. The ceremony often includes a procession carrying the new robes along a designated route to the temple, sometimes led by monks from that temple. While there is no specific date for the ceremony, it typically takes place within a month after the end of Buddhist Lent. Throughout this period, thod khatin processions can be seen at various temples across Thailand. One of the most notable events is the Royal Thod Kathin ceremony, also known as Kathina Luang, attended by members of the Thai royal family.

Ceremonies & Celebrations

Temple grounds transform into vibrant venues filled with traditional music, dance performances, and food stalls. In addition to offering robes, other ways to make merit (thambun) include financial donations to the temple, often placed on a money tree, as well as providing basic utensils, toiletries, writing materials, and food, serving as a gesture of appreciation. Community groups, such as villages, often collect cash donations for their local temple, arranged on a colorful "money tree" adorned with banknotes. This money tree is paraded to the temple with drummers and musicians while villagers carry individual gifts on trays. During Thot Kathin, the laypeople of Thailand joyfully reaffirm their faith by bringing gifts to Buddha and his servants.