Shan Resistance Holds Scripture Recitation Ceremony

Shan Resistance Holds Scripture Recitation Ceremony

A Buddhist scripture reading was held at the border opposite Chiangmai Province last week, with the support from the Shan resistance quarters, according to S.H.A.N. correspondent. 

Abhidhamma, the third section of Buddha's teachings, was recited by 130 monks and 180 novices from 82 Shan temples from 3-9 January. The Shan State Army, presumably under the political leadership of the Restoration Council of Shan State led by Sai Aung Mart, ex-Shan Nationalities League for Democracy joint secretary, was reported as the main contributor to the event. 

Hundreds of villagers, which included Shans, hilltribes people and northern Thais, participated in the merit-making, reported Maihoong, S.H.A.N.'s reporter for southern Shan State. 

"This is indeed meritorious", said a northern Thai abbot. "Before this, the relations between the Shan State Army and the local people (most of whom are northerners, known as Yon to Shan and Muang to themselves) had been somewhat difficult. Now we see all the villagers energetically doing what they can to make this long ceremony a smooth one". 

Sai Aung Mart, President, Standing Executive Committee, Restoration Council of Shan State; Sao Ternsarng, his vice president; Ms Khurhsaen, General Secretary as well as Sao Yawdserk, Commander-in-Chief of the Shan State Army took part in the last day's religious service.