Kathina: A Golden Opportunity To Accumulate Exceptional Merit

The rains retreat of the monks (Vassana Kala) ends on the full moon day of October. During the Vassana retreat that lasted for three months, the monks served the community of followers and devotees in various ways such as preaching of Dhamma, meditation, counselling and serving in many other ways.

The monks end the retreat by performing a Monastic Disciplinary Act (Vinaya Kamma) called the Pavarana. After this, the monks are free to leave the place where the retreat was held. Before they leave, it is the custom for the devotees to hold a farewell ceremony for the monks which is called the Kathina ceremony.

During this ceremony, many gifts are offered to the monks as well as gifts for the upkeep of the monastery (Vihara). A very important part of this ceremony is the offering of a special robe called the Kathina Civara, which is made in a special way, through contributions and collective effort by many devotees. This is also offered in a special way by carrying the "Kathina Robe" in a parade (perahera).

To participate in this ceremony is considered to be a great spiritual benefit to everyone. This is one of the highest deeds among the "eight great kusala kamma".

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