Get ready! The countdown is just 2 days away for the night of 28 July. Midnight Alms Giving "Phra Upakut" Honoring the sacred Wednesday Full Moon coinciding with Asalha Puja Day, opening the legend and proper offering preparations for strong merit on this day.
Tradition Midnight Alms Giving or as it is called in Northern Thailand, "Peng Pud" tradition is an auspicious practice passed down through generations, occurring only on the 15th lunar day that falls on a Wednesday.
It begins at 00:00 hrs (the start of Wednesday) when Phra Upakut, a powerful arahant, transforms into a novice monk to go alms round to bless beings.
It is believed that those who make merit by giving alms to Phra Upakut on the Wednesday Full Moon night will receive great blessings in fortune, success, and protection from all obstacles.
Faith in Phra Upakut stems from Buddhist history stating he is an arahant who practiced austerities beneath the sea, possessing powers to conquer evil and remove obstacles. Because of this, people believe giving alms on this night brings several benefits as follows.
For preparation on the night of 28 July to welcome the Wednesday Full Moon, correct and pure-hearted preparation of offerings is key. The recommended items are as follows.
1. Rice and dried food Choose items that keep well and are of good quality, such as rice, canned food, drinking water, instant noodles, or snacks.
2. Flowers, incense, candles Lotus flowers are preferred to honor Phra Upakut, accompanied by three incense sticks and one candle.
3 . Monetary offerings You may offer money in envelopes according to your faith.
4. Cleanliness and care All items should be prepared with care, avoiding expired or damaged goods.
1. Cleanse body and mind Before midnight, bathe to purify your body and calm your mind.
2. Be ready before 00:00 hrs Arrive at the alms giving location (temple or designated place) from late night on 28 July to await the new day.
3. Recite homage and make wishes Before giving alms, chant Namo three times, recite the Phra Upakut homage mantra, and set your mind on auspicious wishes.
4. Give alms with reverence At midnight, offer alms respectfully and without hurry.
Midnight Alms Giving or Peng Pud alms giving to Phra Upakut on the night of 28 July is a charitable activity that combines Buddhist faith with traditional customs. However, to maximize merit, besides careful preparation, it should be based on good thoughts, good deeds, and a pure heart to continue upholding Buddhism.