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PILGRIMAGE TO LANKA 65

After a final check of our papers,
We took the train for the continuation of the journey.
The tumult invaded our hearts as we kept thinking of Keng Tung.
Those who could not come because they had not enough merits. (Verse 101)

In the city of Lanka, where the Tooth-relic was kept,
A beautiful day awaited us.
At five o’ clock in the afternoon, on the fourteenth day of the journey,
1
We arrived at the hospital for a last verification of our papers . (Verse 102)

To questions put by a dignitary, probably the governor of the city, who inquired
about the visit, the monks answered that they came from Keng Tung, a city situated not
far from China and ruled by the British. They also gave the reason for their coming to the
holy city :

« To the Tooth-relic of the Master of the World called Gotama,
We want to pay our devotions and make a wish
To escape the Circle of rebirths and attain the Nirvæ◊a.
Such is our desire. » (Verse 106)

Nicely impressed by what he had just heard, the governor did his best to facilitate
the stay of the monks in his country.

We have explained it to the governor,
Then he provided us with a coach,
So we could go to the shrine of the Buddha’ s tooth
And make our offerings as we had wished. (Verse 109)

It is generally understood that donations to the venerable monks and to the reli-
gious community are a source of merit. A living tradition, which probably comes from
the worship of Maha Myat Muni in Mandaly, sees the Buddha’s statue, or a holy relic,
as a living Being, which explains the food offerings.

The offerings made to the Buddha were carefully prepared.
2
There was Madhupæyæs rice , sweet fruit, bananas,
Five kinds of dairy products, cane sugar, sesame, coconut,
Orange, pomelo, cinnamon apple and various other fruits. (Verse 110)

The offerings are usually prepared carefully, not to mention with decorum, with
its magnificence, which gives an imposing look to the donation.

1
Probably vaccination certificates.
2
Rice boiled in cow’s milk and honey.