Sou Khouan

Ceremony Time: 9 AM

One of the most important of Lao customs is the marriage ceremony, called the Baci / Sou Khouan.

It is believed in a traditional Lao marriage ceremony that customs and traditions must be adhered to ensure a happy and long lasting marriage. Also, by having a traditional ceremony, Lao newlyweds demonstrate their respect for and interest in preserving their cultural heritage.

The Sou Khouan is conducted by a Mor Phon(literal: "mor" -doctor, in this case spiritual doctor; "phon" -blessing) , an elder in the community who is knowledgeable of Buddhism and traditional Lao rituals. He is a person with special status in the Buddhist temple who can officiate at well-wishing ceremonies such as the Baci or Sou Khouan, and can interpret the Buddhist calendar. The Mor Phon knows the correct order of events in the wedding ceremony, and recites verses of Buddhist scripture in pali, the language of Buddhism.

After the Mor Phon finishes his chant, he gives the newlyweds a small amount of rice, egg, and alcohol spirits. Drinking of the spirits symbolizes wealth for the new couple; the rice and egg symbolizes their humble past. Then, the Mor Phon continues with another chant for the new couple.

Following the chants, the Mor Phon ties the wrists of the groom and the bride with a white cotton string. This is called phouk khene. As he ties the string, he gives blessings to the couple. Next, the guests (mainly the elders) join in the phouk khene to offer well wishes to the couple. Once everyone has had their turns, the bride and groom return to their original sitting arrangements and the Mor Phon ends the Sou Khouan, and guests are invited to dine.