A thudong umbrella tentis a large umbrella with a long pole and a mosquito net sewn around the edge of the canopy (or a separate large net that can be fitted over it to keep insects out). It can be dismantled and packed away. It is a special requisite for monks who go on thudong (forest wandering/ascetic practice), used to protect against sun and rain while traveling and to set up as a temporary shelter or a place for meditation. Its purpose is to cultivate the mind, lessen defilements, and train in simplicity and contentment.
Why it matters:
Protection: Shields the monk from sun and rain during thudong journeys.
A tool for mental training: Using the umbrella as one’s shelter trains a monk to let go of attachment to beds, comfort, and convenience, and to live calmly and simply.
Sapathon(pronounced sap-pa-thon) is a large ceremonial umbrella made of fabric, with ruffles around the edge and a long handle, similar in shape to a monk’s umbrella. It may be made from fabrics in various colors—such as red or yellow—or from brocade-like cloth (pha tad). Sapathons are used in important religious ceremonies and Thai traditions, such as ordination processions (hae nak). Beyond providing shade, they symbolize coolness and well-being, fulfilled wishes, honor, respect, and auspiciousness. They come in both hand-held and stand-mounted forms.
Uses in ceremonies:
Ordination procession (hae nak): Held over the ordinand in the procession around the ordination hall as a mark of honor and as part of the ceremonial set.
Kathin ceremonies: Used to shade a principal Buddha image or the presiding figure at the ceremony.
Other important rites: Used in invocation rites and various auspicious events as a symbol of good fortune.