SSBU

Abstract

This Independent Study Project (ISP) examines the decline of the traditional practice of "temple sleeping" among the Shan Buddhist community in Mong Pawn, Loilem Township, Southern Shan State, Myanmar. For centuries this old custom, where lay devotees, spend the night at the monastery to meditate and follow the Eight Precepts, has been essential for passing on Shan culture and Buddhist values to the next generation.

However, this study finds that the tradition is declining. This is visible not only because fewer young people participate, but also because older people are practicing it less deeply than before.

Data were collected by using a case study approach through interviews with 20 people (10 elders and 10 youth) and observations of temple activities during three Uposatha cycles.

The analysis identified four main reasons for this decline: (1) fewer people can read Lik Long (classical Shan scripture) and Zare (poet-reciters) are disappearing; (2) the Pwe Saga (almsgiving) system is weakening due to labor migration, political instability, and drug issues; (3) a wide generation gap caused by digital distractions, economic pressures, and the misconception that meditation is only for the elderly; and (4) traditional festivities are fading, as they are being replaced by smartphones and social media.

The study concludes that the temple sleeping tradition is not just facing challenges; it is actively declining. This is most visible in the loss of Lik Long knowledge transmission and the fact that young people are absent from Pwe Saga responsibilities.

Without deliberate action, such as teaching Lik Long through short courses, modernizing youth engagement with Dhamma through social media, improving temple facilities for elders, and changing how different generations view this practice, this living heritage may not survive beyond the current generation. PGDip Shan State Buddhist University, 2026.

Includes References and Footnotes.

Table Contents

Acknowledgements

Abstract

1. Introduction

1.1 Background of the Research

1.2 Research Problem.

1.3 Research Questions

1.4 Research Objectives

1.5 Research Methodology

1.6 Literature Review

2. Findings from Participant Observation

2.1 The Traditional Customs of the Shan People During the Buddhist Lent

2.2 Lik Long and Zare Classical Shan Scriptures and Poet-reciters

2.3 The Lenten Almsgiving Ceremony

3. Findings from Qualitative Interviews

3.1 Cultural Identity and Belief in Future Life

3.2 Social Benefits and Community Connection

3.3 Physical and Practical Challenges

3.4 The Generational Gap and Youth Perspective

4. Conclusion and Recommendations

List of Interviewees

References Sai Sia Wan A Study on the Decline of Temple Sleeping Practice in Mong Pawn, Southern Shan State