Vientiane (VNA) – Xaybath, a key offering ritual during Laos’ largest Buddhist festival, Boun Thatluang, that took place from November 11 to 15 in Vientiane, is a unique cultural practice of Lao people.
On the morning of November 15, thousands of monks, Buddhists, and locals gathered at Thatluang Square in the capital to participate in this time-honoured tradition.
Participants who are expected to remove their shoes and sit along the entrance to Thatluang Temple, prepare offerings of money, sweets, steamed sticky rice, and other items to present to the monks. This act of giving is considered a way to uphold the monks’ humble lifestyle and to accumulate spiritual merit by selflessly sharing with others.
For the monks, receiving these offerings is not just a physical act but a spiritual one, reinforcing their vow of modesty and discipline. The Xaybath ceremony also serves as a means for the Lao people to honour their ancestors and wish for their souls' peace in the afterlife.
Monk Keodam Pauvongpha from Sokpaluang Temple in Vientiane explained that Boun Thatluang is a cherished tradition, both a remembrance of the departed and a prayer for their souls' tranquility. It also teaches younger generations the importance of these cultural practices, ensuring they continue in the future.
The annual offering during this festival is seen as a vital opportunity to demonstrate how to properly perform the ritual, as well as to promote Lao culture both within the country and to the wider world.
Vilay Santivong, a Vientiane resident, noted that the festival is a time for all Lao people, young and old, to come together in unity and solidarity, expressing love and respect through their shared participation in the ceremony. For many, the act of making offerings brings peace of mind, good health, and blessings for a better life.
For the Lao people, Xaybath is not just a ritual, but a profound expression of faith, unity, and cultural identity./.
