Benz's ordination (to become a monk) ceremony in Sathing Phra, Thiland.
Benz undergoing the first of his official ceremonies - the shaving of his head.
After the head shaving had been completed the eyebrows and face were given a similar treatment by Benz himself.
On his head he was adorned with a braided white and gold crown made of fabric.
In the family's living room was a neatly stacked display of gifts that would serve as offerings to the temple on Benz' behalf.
Benz was received by two head monks who proceeded to instruct him about living life as a monk.
In the main temple, the remainder of the ceremony was conducted in the presence of all the head monks.
It was a colorful and joyful ceremony and although we did not understand all the subtleties of the day and any of the language, it was a memorable experience.
    As everyone exited the temple, Benz stood on the upper steps and took handfuls of the marigold plastic wrapped 1 baht coins which we had wrapped the previous night and tossed them out into the crowd below. Jan/22/2001

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