The origins of lent

In India, where Buddhism began, there is a three-month-long rainy season. In the time of the Buddha, once during the rainy season, a group of wandering monks sought shelter by co-habitating in a residence because they wanted to avoid stepping on the plants of the villagers.

In order to minimise potential inter-personal strife while co-habiting, the monks agreed to remain silent for the entire three months and agreed on non-verbal ways to share alms.

When the Buddha learned of the monks' silence, he instituted the Pavarana Ceremony as a means for dealing with potential conflict and breaches of disciplinary rules during the Vassa season.

Six things Buddhists should practise at the end of Vassa, or "Buddhist lent":

Perform acts of merit by offering alms, dedicate merit to deceased relatives.

Listen to Dharma teachings, observe precepts, make offerings, or present food and requisites for monks or temples, and participate in Dharma sermons.

Offer alms to monks in celebration of the descent from heaven by Lord Buddha

Clean and decorate homes, public buildings, and important Buddhist places, including hanging the national and Buddhist flags.

Organise exhibitions, lectures, or discussions related to the day at government offices, educational institutions, and temples to disseminate knowledge to the public and interested individuals.

Avoid entertainment, engage in fasting, and abstain from harming or consuming animal flesh.

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Origins and Buddhist practices associated with the day marking end ... - Nation Thailand