kaṭhina

Cotton cloth supplied to monks by the laity for the purpose of making robes. The offering of the cloth, which should be new or in good condition, is made after the annual retreat during the rainy season in countries where Theravāda Buddhism is practised. A ceremony has developed around the offering, which goes back to ancient times, and is one of the few ceremonies that follows an almost identical form throughout south-east Asia. It is one of many ceremonies in Theravāda Buddhism in which the laity plays a part. See also cīvara; festivals.