Katina Ceremony

Just back from a 4 hour Katina Ceremony organised by Bhante Gunaratana and his MK Buddhist Society. More than 10,000 pieces of robes were offered to the Sangha community that spread in different countries covering Sri Lanka, India, Myanmar and more. This ceremony had a great sense of occasion about it. It showed how a community who believes the same faith can maintain a great and rich tradition that spans more than 2500 years.

Buddhist monasteries normally observe a Rains Retreat period annually. They remain at one location to practice intensive meditation and reflection as well as to teach Dharma to devotees. At the conclusion of three months, which corresponds to the rainy period in ancient India, a special robe (Katina) is offered.

It is said to be the most meritorious offering, a millennia-old custom from the time of the Buddha. It is believed that offering the Katina robe will earn solid good Karma.

Very often, it is also during this ceremony that one transfer such meritorious deed to the departed ones with the hope that they become a participant of the original deed by associating themselves with the deed done. Thus, this identification of themselves with both the deed and the doer may result in the beneficiary getting even greater merit than the original doer, be it higher rejoicing or possible counterbalancing of their negative karma, thereby saving them from potential calamity.

This is my second participation in Katina Ceremony - where more time was spent on reflection, learning Buddha Dharma, and practicing Dana with appreciative joy. Mum must have felt our intense love and joy for the emotion that coursed through was overwhelming at times.....

A meaningful session. Indeed.