There may be a little less light at temples this year, as the slow economy has even affected candle sales for Khao Phansa. Merchants report that sales of beeswax candles for merit making activities were down significantly this year. Traditionally, almost every Buddhist family takes at least one candle to give to the temple in honor of Khao Phansa, or the period of Buddhist Lent, but this year, far fewer families were buying.

Mrs. Supattra Chukittiwibun, who sells merit-making supplies opposite Wat Chaimongkol, said that, aside from the economy, she believes people may not put as much emphasis on the holiday as they once did. Since the cost of the candles had increased due to inflation, those who did buy candles were only purchasing small ones. Other items, such as monks’ robes and sandals, are also given as merit-making offerings at this time, but the presentation of items that provide light, such as candles, lanterns and lamp oil, is considered especially important, as these provide illumination for the monks in both the physical and spiritual sense.

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