Pchum Ben (Khmer: ភ្ជុំបិណ្ឌ, Phchŭm Bĕnd [pʰcom bən], lit. “balled rice gathering”) is a Cambodian 15-day religious festival, culminating in celebrations on the 15th day of the tenth month in the Khmer calendar, at the end of the Buddhist Lent, Vassa. In 2023, Pchum Ben will begin on October 13 and end on October 27.
Pchum Ben is considered to be one of the most important religious holidays in Cambodia. It is a time for Cambodians to pay their respects to deceased relatives of up to seven generations. The festival is also a time for families to come together and to reflect on the importance of filial piety and gratitude.
History of Pchum Ben
The origins of Pchum Ben can be traced back to the Angkorian era (9th-15th centuries). However, the festival is believed to have been influenced by both Hindu and Buddhist beliefs.
In Hindu mythology, Pchum Ben is associated with the story of King Yama, the god of death. According to legend, King Yama opens the gates of hell during this time of year, allowing the spirits of the dead to return to the earth.
In Buddhism, Pchum Ben is a time for Buddhists to make offerings to the monks and to generate merit for their deceased loved ones. Buddhists believe that the merit generated during this time can help to alleviate the suffering of the hungry ghosts.
Pchum Ben Celebrations
Pchum Ben celebrations begin on the first day of the tenth month in the Khmer calendar. During the festival period, Cambodians visit pagodas to make offerings of food, flowers, and candles to the monks. They also chant prayers and listen to sermons.
On the last day of Pchum Ben, Cambodians prepare a special meal called “bey phchum ben”. The meal typically includes sticky rice, meat, vegetables, and fruits. It is believed that the food offerings made during Pchum Ben can help to satisfy the hunger of the hungry ghosts.
After the meal, Cambodians gather at the pagoda to watch a special ceremony called “pithi pchum ben”. The ceremony is led by the monks and includes chanting, prayers, and offerings.
At the end of the ceremony, Cambodians take the food offerings that they have prepared and place them on special platforms outside the pagoda. The food is then left for the hungry ghosts to consume.
Pchum Ben Traditions
There are a number of unique traditions associated with Pchum Ben. One such tradition is the practice of releasing balloons into the air. The balloons are believed to carry the spirits of the dead back to heaven.
Another tradition is the practice of building sand pagodas. The sand pagodas are decorated with flowers and candles and are believed to be a temporary home for the spirits of the dead.
Pchum Ben in Cambodian Culture
Pchum Ben is an important part of Cambodian culture. It is a time for families to come together and to remember their deceased loved ones. It is also a time for Cambodians to reflect on the importance of filial piety and gratitude.
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