Even though it was still dark, there was a bustle of activity happening by the time we got there. A constant stream of ladies deposited packets of sticky rice in offering bowls. Many people were walking around the stupa and pouring water on figurines shaped in the form of demi-gods, tigers, goats, and dogs. Wads of sticky rice were placed near the statuettes as well (see photo). Others were lighting candles and setting them at the base of the stupa. A light cacophony of prayers could be heard as my neighbors made there way around the shrine.
By the time the sun came over the horizon, a couple hundred people had gathered. After a local government official gave a few announcements, the group sat on a mat and listened to a Buddhist monk’s sermon. When the talk was done, everyone got up and had a hot bowl of rice soup and herbal tea. Then we went home.
Yesterday asked about the meaning of the ceremony with my culture helpers. My neighbors believe the spirits of their ancestors reside in the stupa as well as the statuettes. The food and water offered were for the spirits to eat. The ancestors in turn would shield my friends from sickness and harm.
More importantly, a core belief from the heart rose to the surface. An idiom that the Lue often say is, “If you do good, you receive good, if you do evil, you receive evil.” This belief permeates all actions, from participating in ceremonies to greeting guests. By taking care of the ancestors they in turn will take care of you. “This (the idiom mentioned) is why we did this ceremony,” my helper said.
