The Tradition of Changing the Clothes of Deceased Monks in Lanna

Abstract

This research article has two objectives: 1. to study the changing of the robes of deceased monks in Lanna and 2. to analyze the significance of the tradition of changing the robes of deceased monks in Lanna. This is a qualitative research, consisting of document research and in-depth interviews with 20 key informants.
The research results found that in the past, there was no written evidence of the preservation of the monks’ remains in Lanna. It is estimated that the preservation of the remains began in the year 1977, when the remains of Khru Ba Aphichai Khaopi were kept at Wat Phra Phutthabat Pha Nam. The tradition of changing the robes of Khru Chao Kanchai Kanchano and Luang Pu Khru Ba Krong Khattiyo was also found. The tradition of changing the robes of the deceased monks is important in expressing the gratitude of teachers and also in expressing the faith of Buddhists in the monks. And it also creates unity in the community.