Cambodian monks in the temples of Angkor

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Monks, with their vivid-colored saffron robes, are interesting subjects for
photographers as they provide a striking contrast against the sandstone of Angkor
temples.
According to history, Buddhism in Cambodia dates back to the 5th century from a king
in the Funan Dynasty. However, it was then that during the reign of King Jayavarman
VII of the Angkor Empire when a certain type of Buddhism, called Mahayana
Buddhism, was established. Then there was another form called the Theravada
Buddhism that took over the former one after the death of King Jayavarman VII.
In the present days, about 95% of people in Cambodia practice Buddhism. Buddhist
monks are also referred to as bonzes. There are two types of monks, the Novice and
the Bhikkhu. Novices can be as young as 7 years old while Bhikku should be at least 20
years of age. Converting into a monk is a matter of personal choice but theoretically
speaking based on religious rites and beliefs, Cambodian male above 16 years old
should at least serve some terms as a monk.
Though they are not compelled to serve as a monk for their entire life, others opt to
take the vow and serve otherwise. They live in a simple lifestyle and they are normally
prohibited from participating in activities outside their religious practices. However,
there is a bit of gradual change in their traditional observance due to the fast-changing
contemporary lifestyle influences.

At present, there are about 4000 monks in Cambodia, however it is not an exact figure
as there are many Cambodian monks living in Thailand. This number was much higher
not so long ago as most of Buddhist monks were murdered between 1975 and 1979
by the Pol Pot regime. In 1969, it was estimated that 53,000 monks and 49,000 novice
monks were serving in more than 3,000 temples.
Monks can be spotted in temples and pagodas by the altars praying, some are walking
thru the gates and corridors of Angkor Wat or in the maze of Bayon temple either
alone or in groups, while others are interacting with ordinary people and tourists.
Taking good pictures of monks in these conditions could however be challenging as
good lighting and composition is often proved to be difficult.
We had an unexpected opportunity on the 19th and 20th of December 2015, to
witness a ceremony with 4100 monks in the temples of Angkor. After the offering
ceremony which took place at the Terrace of the Elephants, we met and chatted with
some monks and were able to learn about their religious beliefs and observances.
Taking photos of monks from afar in their saffron robes is already enchanting. Being
closer made it more a delightful encounter as one can see more intricate details like
the position of their hands inside the robe, the elements of the robe, and the silver
alms bowl inside the monk bag.

Novice monk in Angkor Wat temple

Monks tattoo close-up

Monk adjusting his robe with backlit light

Novice monks posing at Baphuon temple

Two novices monks at Baphuon temple

Monks entering the east side of Angkor Wat

Novice monk during the alms ceremony

Little Khmer girl at the offering ceremony

Receiving alms during the ceremony

Monk and his silver alms bowl

Novice monk near Bayon temple

Monks in front of Bayon temple

Group of monks in Bayon temple

Novice monk portrait