
WASO (Beginning of Buddhist Lent)
Waso Full moon Day in ( July) commemorates the
Buddha's First Sermon and the beginning of the Buddhist Len. It is
an occasion for religious function of the Sangha but the laity also
participates in it with offerings of food, robes, shelter (
monastery ) and medicine ( the four requisites of a 'Bikkhu') to the
sangha going into the rain retreat . Young people go on outgoings to
pick flowers in season to offer at pagodas. There are also
novitiation and ordination ceremonies all over the country. It is a
period for reflection, meditation and contemplation. Ordinary folk are also
expected to be more spiritual. Events such as marriages and moving house are
avoided.