The candle market is bustling during the summer season.

Every year, at the beginning of July of the solar calendar, when the rainy season (Banh Chôl Pres Vassa) of Khmer Theravada Buddhism approaches, the atmosphere in localities with a large Khmer population becomes bustling. Khmer Buddhists are busy preparing offerings to offer to pagodas. Among them, large candles are one of the indispensable offerings, carrying deep spiritual meaning and unique cultural features.

Shops and stores sell large items and candles.

According to traditional shops and stores specializing in selling Buddhist items in localities in Can Tho City, the buying and selling of summer candles is bustling. The types of candles that are consumed a lot are usually turmeric yellow, 80cm to 1.5m high, and commonly weigh from 5-20 kg/stick. Many sticks are decorated with embossed patterns or engraved with Khmer characters as blessings, showing the solemnity and sincerity of the person offering the offering.

Mr. Huynh Thanh Sang, owner of a Buddhist items shop at Bo Thao market (An Ninh commune, Can Tho city), shared: “I have been selling candles for many years. Every summer, my revenue doubles. This year, I imported more than 150 large candles, priced from 55,000-60,000 VND/kg. Up to this point, I have sold more than 100 large candles. Many Buddhists ordered early, even requested home delivery.”

Many Buddhists prepare their favorite pair of candles very early and bring them to the pagoda to offer on the day of entering the rainy season. Ms. La Tu Chi, a resident of Phu Loi ward (Can Tho city), said: “Every year, my family orders two pairs of large candles to offer to the pagodas in the ward. This year, I ordered early in June, the price is about 550,000 VND per pair (5 kg/candle). Although the price has increased slightly compared to last year, I offer them out of sincerity, without calculation. I offer them as they are, as long as I have the heart.”

Buddhist followers bring large candles to make offerings at the Khmer Theravada Buddhist temple.

For the Khmer community in the South, the custom of offering candles during the rainy season is not only a religious ritual, but also a cultural beauty that has been deeply ingrained in the spiritual life of the people. Candles not only have the function of lighting but also symbolize the light of wisdom, spiritual enlightenment, and light the way for monks during the 3-month rainy season retreat.

According to Venerable Thach Benh, Abbot of Chroi Tum Chas Pagoda (My Xuyen Ward, Can Tho City), on average each rainy season, the pagoda receives more than 30 large candles donated by Buddhists. This is a long-standing tradition that demonstrates the spirit of solidarity, filial piety and deep attachment of the Khmer community to the Three Jewels. Offering candles is also an opportunity for families to pray for blessings and peace for their families and the entire community.

This year, the rainy season ceremony falls on July 10, 2025 (ie the full moon day of Khe-Asath, according to the Khmer Buddhist calendar). On this day, Khmer Theravada Buddhist pagodas in Can Tho City welcome Buddhists and organize ceremonies according to traditional rituals.

Article and photos: THACH PICH

Source: https://baocantho.com.vn/soi-dong-thi-truong-den-cay-lon-trong-mua-nhap-ha-a188335.html