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The first day of the temple inauguration
is very auspicious. A specific ceremony called "BUAT CHI PHRAM"
(บวชชีพราหมณ์) -
"PHUTTA PHISEK" (พุทธาภิเษก) happens.
This ceremony seldom happens as only a few new temples are sanctified
every year in a province.
First day ceremony
On the first day, many faithful people gather in the temple
to be ordained for one night. The ceremory lasts from 6 PM to dawn.
People already come a few days ago in order to
register, rent one square meter location and pay the ordination fee. The gathered
money is used for the ceremony organization.
First day ceremony
Mainly women come as Thai Buddhism doesn't
allow women to be monks. For women, taking part to such ceremony
brings them many good deeds ("THAM BUN" - ทำบุญ).
First day ceremony
Up to 2000 people (even more for big temples) come to be ordained
one night. The ordination ceremony lasts from sunset until dawn.
Instruction paper is given with the holy
prayers used in Pali language but written in Thai language.
First day ceremony
People use the white thread and position it around their head. This allows
the holy and auspicious prayers to better reach their soul and heart.
Pauses happen every 90 minutes and last 10 to 15 minutes.
First day ceremony
There are breaks when people can have a small walk, rest or
drink a hot coffee, herbal tea, hot chocolate.
Food and drinks are offered to the people ordaining. It is paid by the community
and generous sponsors, who also get good deeds by helping the organization
of such auspicious event.
First day ceremony
During all night, women are praying and listening to the auspicious sentences
about Buddhism.
First day ceremony
Some Buddhist novices take care about holy water. Some candles and herbs are burn on top
of the water. From time to time, the novices spray devotees with holy water.
First day ceremony
Watching hundreds of people praying together at night time in a colorful
atmosphere is an impressive sight.
First day ceremony
When the temple compound is full, some people even sit and pray in their pickup car.
Close to the temple compound, all cars are jammed together and there is no way to
exit until the coming dawn.
First day ceremony
In the kitchen, there is a cheerful atmosphere. Women prepare delicious Thai food
for all faithful people.
First day ceremony
The "UBOSOT" compound is crowded with all faithful people
praying. This is a amazing atmosphere with low light candles and auspicious
prayers. Professional Thai photographers are present to take candid shots
of faithful people.
First day ceremony
The Buddha statues are covered by a white cloth. It simulates that it is a new Buddha
statue.
First day ceremony
The white cloth, covering Buddha statues head, is removed at the end of the celebration around 4 AM.
