Buddhists of Wat Svay

Siem Reap, China Every culture has its own connection to the natural world at dawn. In Siem Reap, Cambodia, the chants of monks echo from within a Theravada Buddhist monastery, called a "wat." These chants help start the day by focusing the monks' attention. Potential distractions are many. Unlike the cloistered monastic retreats of the west, the Wat Svay compound is at the community hub, at its central cross-road. Yet despite busy human activity, the peaceful influence and presence of the natural world remains near for the focused mind. A vibrant pigeon roost is found on the pagoda's rooftop, amidst ornamental carvings that depict serpent figures called "nagas," protectors from the earth. School children wander among the votive "stupas," maintaining the grounds. And as the monks honor their lineage of spiritual teachers, a spectacular rainbow reveals itself high over the temple. One last little know fact…a rainbow at sunrise will always have a steeper arc than any rainbow that happens near mid-day.