Cambodia, a country steeped in rich cultural traditions, observes two interconnected and profoundly significant events each year: Kan Ben and Pchum Ben. These observances offer a unique window into Cambodian spiritual beliefs, family values, and social customs, blending Buddhist traditions with ancestor worship in a way that is central to Khmer culture.
Pchum Ben (Khmer: ភ្ជុំបិណ្ឌ) is the culmination of this period, often referred to as the “Festival of the Dead” or “Ancestors’ Day.” The name literally translates to “gathering” (Pchum) of “rice balls” (Ben), reflecting the central practice of the festival.
This 15-day religious festival also fuses with the Buddhist Lent period known as Vassa, which has been practised since ancient times. During this time monks will take retreat in the pagoda during the 3 months of the rainy season, just as the Buddha himself had done. As the monks rarely venture out during these days, Pchum Ben is an important time for making food donations to the pagoda. These donations are taken as an act of merit which is passed onto the ancestors.
Spiritual Significance
Pchum Ben is deeply rooted in Cambodian Buddhist cosmology and beliefs about the afterlife. It’s believed that during this time, the gates of hell open, allowing spirits to receive offerings from their living descendants. A concept that can be linked to Yama, the Buddhist god of death and the judge of souls, who is commonly depicted on the temples of Angkor.
The festival is a time when Cambodians pay respects to deceased relatives of up to seven generations. It’s thought that some spirits may be able to end their period of purgation, while others might temporarily leave hell before returning to further suffering through the prayers and meritorious acts of their siblings. Interestingly, relatives believed to be in heaven or other realms are also thought to benefit from the ceremonies.
Religious Practices
Buddhist monks play a crucial role in Pchum Ben. They chant suttas in Pali language continuously overnight, creating a sacred atmosphere for the rituals. The offering of food is central to the festival, but there are two main approaches:
- Canonical Approach: In some temples, laypeople offer food to living Buddhist monks, generating “merit” that indirectly benefits the dead.
- Popular Approach: Many temples practice direct food offerings to the dead, such as throwing rice balls through the air or scattering rice in empty fields.
These two models sometimes compete in rural Cambodia, with some temples preferring the canonical method for its orthodoxy, while others embrace the popular belief that the living can directly “feed” the spirits of the dead.
Cultural Importance
Pchum Ben is more than just a religious observance; it’s a time for family reunions, community gatherings, and reaffirming cultural identity. Many Cambodians return to their hometowns during this period, making it one of the most important social events of the year.
For international guests, understanding Pchum Ben and its precursor, Kan Ben, provides invaluable insights into the spiritual and social fabric of Cambodia. These festivals showcase the deep respect for ancestors, the importance of family bonds, and the intricate blend of Buddhist philosophy with local spiritual beliefs that characterize Cambodian culture.
In the following sections, we’ll explore the practices of Kan Ben and Pchum Ben in more detail.
Kan Ben
What is Kan Ben?
Kan Ben, also known as “Dak Ben” or “Ben Thom,” is a 14-day period preceding the main Pchum Ben festival. The term “Kan” means “to give” or “to dedicate,” while “Ben” refers to a ball of rice used in the rituals.
When does it occur?
Kan Ben typically falls in September or October, depending on the Khmer lunar calendar.
Key practices during Kan Ben
- Daily pagoda visits: Families take turns visiting local pagodas (Buddhist temples) to make offerings.
- Food offerings: People bring food, especially rice balls (bay ben) and also sticky rice cake (ansom), to the temples.
- Ancestral remembrance: The offerings are an act of merit-making for deceased ancestors and other spirits.
- Monk blessings: Buddhist monks recite chants specific to Pchum Ben and bless the offerings.
Pchum Ben
What is Pchum Ben?
Pchum Ben, often translated as the “Festival of the Dead” or “Ancestors’ Day,” is the culmination of the Kan Ben period. “Pchum” means “to gather together” or “to meet,” signifying the reunion of the living and the dead. It’s the most important day of the 15 day period.
When is it celebrated?
Pchum Ben occurs on the 15th day, marking the end of Kan Ben.
Significance of Pchum Ben
- Honoring ancestors: It’s believed that during this time, the gates of hell open, allowing spirits to receive offerings from their living descendants.
- Karma and merit: Making offerings is thought to ease the suffering of ancestors in the afterlife and generate good karma for the living.
- Family reunions: Many Cambodians return to their hometowns to celebrate with family.
Key practices during Pchum Ben
- Extensive temple visits: People visit multiple pagodas, often before dawn.
- Special offerings: In addition to rice balls, people offer flowers, incense, and other foods.
- Prayers and chanting: Monks lead special prayer services for the deceased.
- Traditional music and dance: Some communities organize performances of traditional Khmer arts.
- Charitable acts: Many people engage in acts of generosity, such as giving to the poor or releasing captive animals.
Cultural Etiquette for Visitors
If you’re in Cambodia during Kan Ben or Pchum Ben, consider these tips:
- Tag along with a local or a local guide: They can guide you around the customs and etiquette
- Dress modestly: When visiting temples, cover your shoulders and knees.
- Remove shoes: Always take off your shoes before entering temple buildings.
- Be respectful: These are solemn occasions for many Cambodians. Maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor in and around temples.
- Ask before photographing: Some rituals may be sensitive. Always ask permission before taking photos, especially of monks or worshippers.
- Participate respectfully: If invited to join in rituals, you may do so, but follow the lead of your Cambodian hosts.