ព្រះរាជពិធីច្រត់ព្រះនង្គ័ល

The Royal Ploughing Ceremony (or Bon Chroat Preah Nongkoal) is a sacred annual rite held in Cambodia (usually May) to mark the official start of the rainy season and rice-growing season. Led by the King or a royal representative, the ceremony uses sacred oxen to plow a symbolic field, predicting the agricultural success and prosperity of the nation based on what the oxen choose to eat.Key Details of the Ceremony:Purpose: To mark the start of the rice-planting season, invoke blessings from, earth spirits for a bountiful harvest, and predict the coming year’s crop success.Location: Usually held in May (on the 4th day of the 6th lunar month's waning moon) in a field, often in front of the National Museum in Phnom Penh.The Ritual: A designated "King" (Sdach Meak) holds the handle of a plow pulled by two sacred oxen, followed by a "Queen" (Preah Mehuo) who sows rice seeds.The Prediction: The oxen are offered seven trays containing rice, corn, beans, sesame, grass, water, and wine.Eating Rice, Corn, or Seeds: Signifies a plentiful harvest of those crops.Drinking Water: Predicts sufficient rainfall.Eating Grass: Suggests a risk of animal diseases.Drinking Wine: Interpreted as a warning of drought, high crime, or misfortune.Origins and Significance:Historical Roots: The tradition originated in India and was brought to Cambodia in the first century AD.Cultural Importance: It is a deeply respected tradition that blends Hindu rituals with Buddhist prayers, highlighting Cambodia's historical and cultural reliance on agriculture.Context: Similar to the Thai Raek Na Khwan ceremony, it is crucial for rural communities who often plan their planting schedules based on these predictions.The event is a public holiday in Cambodia, allowing people to observe the tradition's role in securing prosperity for the coming year.