Monk’s Bowl
March 22nd, 2010 § Leave a Comment
In the morning, in the city or the rural village, usually an elder monk — maybe with a cane, no shoes — will appear with a slouch from old age, standing and waiting to receive a donation in cash. It happens almost everyday. People typically donate $.12 or $.25, the ritual goes like this . . .
1) take off one’s sandals
2) approach the monk with palms pressed together, bowing in standing pose
3) give the monk a donation
4) continue having palms pressed together to listen and receive the monk’s prayers
5) say thank you and everyone moves on
The wat in my village is very new and pretty, reflecting on the kind donations made by the community. It’s a place for funerals and 100 days ceremonies. And of course, the Cambodian holidays and sometimes concerts/fairs with all sorts of games and snack vendors
