Elephant Ordination Tradition (Buat Na Kh Chang)
The Bond of Faith and Culture of the Kuy People
The Elephant Ordination Tradition (Buat Na Kh Chang) is an ancient Buddhist ritual preserved in northeastern Thailand, particularly among the Kuy (or Kui) people in Surin Province. It is especially practiced in Ban Tak Klang, Krapho Subdistrict, Tha Tum District, known as the Elephant Village. This village is famous for its elephants and the Kuy peoples culture, an ethnic group with a long-standing bond with these majestic animals.
Significance and Beliefs
The Kuy people believe that young men who reach the age of 20 should undergo ordination to study Buddhist teachings before starting a family. Ordination is considered a way to repay the kindness of ones parents and a demonstration of faith and devotion to Buddhism.
The Elephant Ordination Ceremony is distinguished by its ordination procession using elephants instead of horses or cars, as in typical ceremonies. Villagers decorate the elephants with colorful fabrics and ornaments, and the parade features traditional music, dance, and a festive atmosphere, reflecting the communitys unity and devotion to Buddhism.
This ceremony is usually held in April, coinciding with school holidays and the Songkran Festival, making it an ideal time for young men to be ordained according to tradition. The ritual aims to repay parental kindness and provides an opportunity for youth to learn Buddhist teachings.
Sequence of the Ceremony
The Elephant Ordination Ceremony is usually held from the 13th to 15th waxing moon of the 6th lunar month each year, coinciding with important Buddhist observances: the Buddhas birth, enlightenment, and passing into Nirvana.
- Day 1 (13th waxing moon, 6th month): The novices head is shaved, followed by the Bai Sri Su Kwan ceremony at the novices home.
- Day 2 (14th waxing moon, 6th month): The ordination procession on elephants moves to sacred sites, such as Wang Thalu, to pay respects to the local guardian spirits.
- Day 3 (15th waxing moon, 6th month): The ordination takes place at Wat Jaeng Sawang, after which the monks may continue their rains retreat (Vassa) at temples of their choice.
Unique Features of the Ceremony
The ordination procession on elephants is the highlight of this tradition, with novices riding beautifully decorated elephants accompanied by traditional music and dance performances.
Novice Attire: The novices wear crowns, long-sleeved white shirts, silk sarongs, and are adorned with seven-colored sashes, creating a striking and ceremonial appearance.
Ceremony Location: The ordination is usually held at Don Buat or Sim Nam, a raised area in the middle of the river formed where the Chi River meets the Mun River.
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