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  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: Ajahn RAYWAT collects rice during the "tak bat" or donation of rice to the monks, an important part of Buddhist merit making, during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay018.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: Ajahn RAYWAT collects rice during the "tak bat" or donation of rice to the monks, an important part of Buddhist merit making, during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay016.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: A Thai woman bows after presenting Ajahn MAHA AMPORN with rice during the "tak bat" or donation of rice to the monks, an important part of Buddhist merit making, during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay015.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: Ajahn RAYWAT collects rice during the "tak bat" or donation of rice to the monks, an important part of Buddhist merit making, during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay014.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: Ajahn RAYWAT collects rice during the "tak bat" or donation of rice to the monks, an important part of Buddhist merit making, during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay013.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: Ajahn RAYWAT collects rice during the "tak bat" or donation of rice to the monks, an important part of Buddhist merit making, during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay012.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: Ajahn MAHA AMPORN leads prayers during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay001.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ:  SOMKIET, (green shirt) presents food to Ajahn MAHA AMPORN during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay021.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: A woman makes a financial contribution to the temple during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay020.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: Ajahn RAYWAT collects rice during the "tak bat" or donation of rice to the monks, an important part of Buddhist merit making, during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay017.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: PRAPART carries a bowl that holds donations made to the temple during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay011.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: Ajahn RAYWAT leads prayers during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay008.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: Women pray during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay007.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: A man prays during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay005.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ:  SOMKIET, (green shirt) presents food to Ajahn MAHA AMPORN during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay022.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: A woman makes a financial contribution to the temple during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay019.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ:  A Thai family prays over an offering of rice during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay010.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: Ajahn RAYWAT leads prayers during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay009.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: A man prays during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay006.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: A woman lights candles during prayers during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay004.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: Ajahn RAYWAT and Ajahn MAKA AMPORN in the meditation room before the start of prayers during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay003.jpg
  • 24 OCTOBER 2010 - CHANDLER, AZ: Ajahn MAHA AMPORN leads prayers during the Ok Phansa services to mark the end of Buddhist Lent at Wat Pa, in Chandler, AZ, Sunday October 24. Buddhist Lent is a time devoted to study and meditation. Buddhist monks remain within the temple grounds and do not venture out for a period of three months starting from the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month (in July) to the fifteenth day of the waxing moon of the eleventh lunar month (in October). Ok Phansa Day marks the end of the Buddhist lent and falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, this year Oct 23. Wat Pa, a Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, celebrated Ok Phansa Day on October 24.    Photo by Jack Kurtz
    OkPansaDay002.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A young man entering the monastery for Vassa prays before his parents at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become Buddhist monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721045.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A young man entering the monastery for Vassa prays before his parents at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become Buddhist monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721044.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A man being ordained as a Buddhist monk at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721041.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A man places a garland around the neck of a man being ordained as a Buddhist monk at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721040.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A young man's family cuts his hair before he became ordained as a Buddhist monk at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721034.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   The families of men entering the monastery for Vassa have their hair cut by members of their families at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become Buddhist monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721032.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A Buddhist monk walks along a street near Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721026.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Buddhist monks at Wat Benchamabophit wait for people to present them with alms on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721021.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Buddhist monks walk in and out of Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721018.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A Buddhist monk walks into Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721016.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Buddhist monks at Wat Benchamabophit wait for people to present them with alms on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721001.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A young man entering the monastery for Vassa prays in front of his relatives at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become Buddhist monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721046.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A young man entering the monastery for Vassa makes an offering to his parents at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become Buddhist monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721042.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A young man's family cuts his hair under an umbrella during a rain before he became ordained as a Buddhist monk at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721037.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A young man's family cuts his hair before he became ordained as a Buddhist monk at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721036.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A young man's family cuts his hair before he became ordained as a Buddhist monk at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721035.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A young man's family cuts his hair before he became ordained as a Buddhist monk at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721033.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   The families of men entering the monastery for Vassa have their hair cut by members of their families at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become Buddhist monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721031.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A young man's family cuts his hair before he became ordained as a Buddhist monk at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721030.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A young man's family cuts his hair before he became ordained as a Buddhist monk at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721029.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Buddhist monks at Wat Benchamabophit wait for people to present them with alms on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721028.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A Buddhist monk at Wat Benchamabophit waits for people to present them with alms on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721027.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Buddhist monks at Wat Benchamabophit wait for people to present them with alms on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721024.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Buddhist monks at Wat Benchamabophit wait for people to present them with alms on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721023.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Buddhist monks at Wat Benchamabophit wait for people to present them with alms on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721022.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Buddhist monks at Wat Benchamabophit wait for people to present them with alms on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721020.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Buddhist monks walk in and out of Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721019.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A Buddhist monk walks into Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721017.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Buddhist monks at Wat Benchamabophit wait for people to present them with alms on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721009.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A family prays with Buddhist monks after making merit at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721008.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A family prays with Buddhist monks after making merit at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721007.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Buddhist monks at Wat Benchamabophit wait for people to present them with alms on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721002.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  People walk into Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. Men frequently enter the monastery and become Buddhist monks for Vassa. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721043.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A Buddhist monk walks along a street near Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721025.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: People wait in line to make merit at Wat Mahabut on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721058.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A family makes merit and presents a senior monk with alms at Wat Mahabut on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721053.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A family makes merit and presents a senior monk with alms at Wat Mahabut on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721051.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:   Monks make the final ascent to the temple up a flight of stairs during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent030.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:  People present flowers and candles to monks during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent018.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND: A woman prepares to offer flowers to the monks during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent017.jpg
  • 12 JULY 2014 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND: Buddhist monks climb the stairs to Wat Phra Phuttabat during the Tak Bat Dok Mai in Saraburi province of Thailand. Wat Phra Phutthabat is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monks by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa "Buddhist Lent."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    TakBatDokMai2014050.jpg
  • 12 JULY 2014 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND: Buddhist monks climb the stairs to Wat Phra Phuttabat during the Tak Bat Dok Mai in Saraburi province of Thailand. Wat Phra Phutthabat is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monks by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa "Buddhist Lent."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    TakBatDokMai2014049.jpg
  • 12 JULY 2014 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND: Monks receive flowers the Buddhist faithful during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand. Wat Phra Phutthabat is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monks by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa "Buddhist Lent."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    TakBatDokMai2014048.jpg
  • 12 JULY 2014 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND: Monks receive flowers the Buddhist faithful during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand. Wat Phra Phutthabat is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monks by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa "Buddhist Lent."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    TakBatDokMai2014045.jpg
  • 12 JULY 2014 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND: Buddhist monks line up before the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand. Wat Phra Phutthabat is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monks by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa "Buddhist Lent."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    TakBatDokMai2014019.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  People pour molten wax into candle molds to make merit at Wat Mahabut on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The candles are then presented to the temple. Now monks rely on electric lights, but traditionally the temples relied on candles provided by the community. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721060.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  People pour molten wax into candle molds to make merit at Wat Mahabut on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The candles are then presented to the temple. Now monks rely on electric lights, but traditionally the temples relied on candles provided by the community. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721059.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: People wait in line to make merit at Wat Mahabut on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721057.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A man and woman pray at Wat Mahabut on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721056.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A family makes merit and presents a senior monk with alms at Wat Mahabut on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721054.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A family makes merit and presents a senior monk with alms at Wat Mahabut on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721052.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A woman hits a prayer gong at Wat Mahabut on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."        PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721049.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: People make merit and pray at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721047.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Women, one holding a dog, pray while a monk blesses them after they made merit at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721015.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman gives food to a monk and makes merit at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721014.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   An elderly woman sits in a chair to give monks alms at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."        PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721013.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   An elderly woman sits in a chair to give monks alms at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."        PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721012.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Three generations of a family give food to a monk to make merit at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."        PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721011.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Three generations of a family give food to a monk to make merit at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."        PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721010.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman gives food to a monk and makes merit at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721006.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  People present monks with alms and make merit at Wat Benchamabophit on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721005.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A man gives monks at Wat Benchamabophit food and alms on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721004.jpg
  • 21 JULY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A man gives monks at Wat Benchamabophit food and alms on the first day of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) many Buddhists visit their temples to "make merit." During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent."       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLentBKK0721003.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:  Monks process out of Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent042.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:  People ring holy prayer bells at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand. The temple is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent040.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:  People ring holy prayer bells at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand. The temple is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent039.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:  People ring holy prayer bells at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand. The temple is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent037.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:   A man makes an offering to the monks during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent036.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:   People pray in Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent034.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:   Monks make the final ascent to the temple up a flight of stairs during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent033.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:   Monks make the final ascent to the temple up a flight of stairs during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent032.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:   Monks make the final ascent to the temple up a flight of stairs during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent029.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:   Monks make the final ascent to the temple up a flight of stairs during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent028.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:   Monks make the final ascent to the temple up a flight of stairs during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent027.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:  People walk up the stairs to Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press  PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent026.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:  People place flowers on a float carrying a robed statue of the Buddha during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press  PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent025.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:   A woman presents flowers to a float carrying a robed statue of the Buddha during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent024.jpg
  • 15 JULY 2011 - PHRA PHUTTHABAT, SARABURI, THAILAND:   A woman presents flowers to a float carrying a robed statue of the Buddha during the Tak Bat Dok Mai at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi province of Thailand, Friday, July 15. Wat Phra Phutthabat in Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi, Thailand, is famous for the way it marks the beginning of Vassa, the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada monks and nuns. The temple is highly revered in Thailand because it houses a footstep of the Buddha. On the first day of Vassa (or Buddhist Lent) people come to the temple to "make merit" and present the monks there with dancing lady ginger flowers, which only bloom in the weeks leading up Vassa. They also present monks with candles and wash their feet. During Vassa, monks and nuns remain inside monasteries and temple grounds, devoting their time to intensive meditation and study. Laypeople support the monastic sangha by bringing food, candles and other offerings to temples. Laypeople also often observe Vassa by giving up something, such as smoking or eating meat. For this reason, westerners sometimes call Vassa the "Buddhist Lent." The tradition of Vassa began during the life of the Buddha. Most of the time, the first Buddhist monks who followed the Buddha did not stay in one place, but walked from village to village to teach. They begged for their food and often slept outdoors, sheltered only by trees. But during India's summer rainy season living as homeless ascetics became difficult. So, groups of monks would find a place to stay together until the rain stopped, forming a temporary community. Wealthy laypeople sometimes sheltered monks on their estates. Eventually a few of these patrons built permanent houses for monks, which amounted to an early form of monastery.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BuddhistLent023.jpg
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Jack Kurtz, Photojournalist & Travel Photographer

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