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Shinbyu is the Burmese term for a novitiation ceremony in the tradition of Theravada Buddhism. It is deemed the most important duty that parents owe to their son by letting him go forth and embrace the legacy of the Buddha, join the Sangha (monastic community) and become immersed in the teachings of the Buddha, the Dhamma, at least for a short while, perhaps longer if not for the rest of his life. A boy may become a novice on more than one occasion. Those who are not blessed with a male child will seek for an orphan boy or a boy from very poor families in order to receive this special dispensation by the Buddha and hence gain great merit by the act. Shinbyu may well be regarded as a rite of passage or coming of age ceremony as in other religions. Allowing a son to spend some time however short it may be, in a Buddhist monastery is regarded by most Buddhists as the best religious gift that his parents can give him and it is believed to have a lasting effect on his life.
The novitiates-to-be wear a royal outfit before ordination to re-enact Rahula's (Buddha's son) rejection of a princely life in exchange for a life of self-detachment. We came across this ceremonial procession as they stopped at an ancient gate to the city of Bagan to say prayers at a small wayside shrine. This is a very open and public ceremony and they were very pleased that we wanted to take photographs.
Dave
| Brand: | Canon |
| Camera: | Canon EOS 7D |
| Lens: | EF-S15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM |
| Recording media: | RAW (digital) |
| Date Taken: | 8 Dec 2012 - 2:14 AM |
| Focal Length: | 85mm |
| Lens Max Aperture: | f/5.7 |
| Aperture: | f/32.0 |
| Shutter Speed: | 1/100sec |
| Exposure Comp: | -1/3 |
| ISO: | 400 |
| Exposure Mode: | Shutter speed priority AE |
| Metering Mode: | Multi-segment |
| Flash: | Off, Did not fire |
| White Balance: | Auto |
| Title: | Shinbyu |
| Username: | 
WhiteRose1 |
| Uploaded: | 28 Dec 2012 - 10:14 AM |
| Tags: | Bhuddism, Ceremony, Landscape / travel, Monks, Myanmar, Religion |
| VS Mode Rating |
100 (0% won) These stats show the percentage of wins and the rating score that your photo has achieved. You can go to the VS Mode by clicking on this icon. Signup to e2Signup to e2 to see which photo this has won or lost against in the vs mode |
| Votes: | 108 |
Comments
A very interesting foreword, one which I gleaned many snippets which I am sure will come in handy for playing Trivial Pursuits or attending the local Pub Quiz. The accompanying photograph is simply breathtaking, beautifully composed, processed and presented.
Regards Nathan 
The colours and tones in this shot are amazing Dave
mike
What a detailed, informative and interesting narrative to accompany this wonderful shot, Dave: and what an experience to have been there and witnessed this ceremony.
A very nice tight capture of this wee lad in his ceremonial best.
Would grace any travelogue brochure or National Geographic pages.
Ronnie.
Travelogue that is about culture and real humanity, not pretty beach sunsets and carefully posed faces. I wish there was more like this, it opens eyes.
Moira
fine work David good narrative have seen many of these type of ceremonies in my 15 odd years living in and around Asian, he is so pround in his finery well capture you will do for me today nice one
Graham
A colourful and bright shot, enlightening in every way!
thanks for your informative write up ....
...and what a grand shot you got as a bonus
Thank you for your time with the commentary - it was very interesting and informative to read.
I've always considered Buddhism to be the gentlest and most tolerant of religions - to take part in it if only for a short time would definitely impart some of its values on a young man.
This young boy looks very pleased to be part of the ceremony - proud of the fact. Wonderful photojournalism; down to the reflected sparkles of light on his face from the decoration on the clothing.
Anne
A lovely coloured portrait with nice detail added texture in the sun shade.
well done. WesternRed.
This is colourful Dave, lovely expression captured,
Fred.
Colourful and endearing, I love the few elements that you have included, just sufficient to give us an idea of the ceremony, and the child's smile makes it even more special. Thankyou for the informative narrative to accompany the image, it brings it to life.
Fantastic portrait Dave, fabulous light and excellent detail, fascinating write up, all the best for 2013
Hugh
What a fascinating description, and an enchanting photograph.
Hi Dave. Your narrative gives a wonderful insight into this intriguing aspect of Buddhism and your image is a masterpiece bringing your words to life. How lovely to have experienced such a colourful ceremony and to have captured it so perfectly in this enchanting portrait ... Carol
A great moment, with obvious enjoyment from the child Dave! Really striking colours.
Maggie
Another great travel image Dave! Love the tight comp framing him on 3 sides by furry head, handle and parasol which help draw attention to him, as does his finery. He looks caught between being really pleased and slightly embarrassed at being the centre of attention which gives added facial interest. The disparity between his clothes and the shady slightly rund down backdrop creates mystery which is only explained by your highly informative blurb. Another triumph from your travels, this one! 
Beautiful image of clarity, colour & tradition Dave.
well done on the shed load of awards you have received..in fact, you'll need a new shed at this rate.
Gareth
A fabulous image and narrative giving us a fascinating insight into their culture
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