Vassa

Vassa is a special time for Buddhist monks and nuns where they take a break from their usual routines and devote themselves to intensive meditation practice. This period typically lasts three months, from July until October.

During this time, the monks and nuns follow a strict set of rules known as the Vinaya. These rules include abstaining from sexual activity, eating only one meal a day, and refraining from using luxurious items like high-quality beds and chairs.

The purpose of vassa is to deepen the practitioners' spiritual practice by creating a focused and disciplined environment. It is also a time for strengthening community bonds and renewing commitment to the Buddhist path.

For lay Buddhists, vassa is an opportunity to support their local monastic community by providing food, clothing, and other necessities. In some countries, such as Thailand, people even use this time to ordain as temporary monks or nuns themselves.

Overall, vassa is an important and sacred time in the Buddhist tradition. It fosters spiritual growth and strength, both for the individual and the community as a whole.