Cambodian Traditional Water Blessings
Water blessing is a traditional Cambodian practice that dates back to ancient times, it’s been performed from old generation and today’s a part of daily life. It is a ritual that involves monks chanting and sprinkling or pouring holy water over people to wish them good luck, happiness, and health. Water blessing is often held at Buddhist pagodas or ancient temples, such as Wat Athvea or Wat Bo in Siem Reap or any pagodas in Cambodia.
Water blessing can be done for various occasions, such as weddings, birthdays, special ceremonies or before traveling. It can also be used to end misfortune or bad luck, or to ask for good luck for the future.
Water blessing symbolizes the cultivation of calmness, clarity, and purity of body, speech, and mind. It is a way to cleanse oneself of attachments and generate generosity, compassion, and wisdom. It is a beautiful and meaningful way to experience the culture and religion of Cambodia.
There are two typical Cambodian water blessings
- Sprinkling Water Blessing
A traditional ritual that wishes good luck, safe travel, and long life. It is performed by monks at a Buddhist pagoda or ancient temple. Monks chant harmoniously and sprinkle blessed water over the participants. It is a way to experience the culture and spirituality of Cambodia. It normally takes about one or one hour and half to get it all done and it ends with a wishing red tie.
2) Heavy Water Blessing
A longer ritual that involves vessels of blessed water being poured over your head by monks. Saffron monks prosperously chant to wish you good luck, safe travel, healthy harmony and longevity. It is a way to cleanse yourself, peaceful mind and receive a sacred Buddhist blessing at an ancient pagoda. This traditional water blessing takes approx. two hours and half to three hours included visiting the pagoda, and tt is fully accomplished by a wishing red tie by monks.
