Kathina Ceremony And Planting of Bodhi Tree

Sunday, 4th November 2007
Kathina Ceremony and Planting of Bodhi Tree at Kajang Buddhist Center.

On Sunday, 4th November 2007 the offering of robes, requisites in the form of food stuffs, medicines, toiletries, food beverages and other items deemed appropriate, was offered to the members of the Sangha. Such ceremony is usually organized by Buddhist devotees after the members of the Sangha had completed their observation of Vassa in accordance with the Vinaya rules. Members of the Sangha are the protectors and disseminators of the Noble Dhamma, the teachings of the Buddha and if diligently practiced will lead to final liberation. As such, lending support to the holy Sangha members will enable them to continue spreading the Noble Dhamma. This act of support and reverence is one of the highest meritorious deeds that you may accrue when you participate in this ceremony.

The rains retreat of the monks (vassana kala) ends on the full-moon day of October. During the Vassana retreat that lasted for three months, the monks have served the community of followers in various ways such as giving sermons, teaching Dhamma and meditation, counseling and serving in many other ways. The monks end the retreat, by performing a Monastic Disciplinary Act (vinaya kamma) called the Pavarana. After this the monks are free to leave the place where the retreat was held.

Before they leave, it is the custom of the devotees to hold a farewell ceremony for the monks. This is called the Kathina Ceremony. During this ceremony many gifts are offered to the monks as well as gifts for the upkeep of the monastery (Vihara).

A very important part of this ceremony is the offering of a special robe called the Kathina Civara, which is made in a special way, through the contributions of and collective effort of many devotees. This is also offered in a special way carrying the "Kathina Robe", in a "Parade" (pelahera) with beating of traditional drums.