(Kampong Chhnang): According to predictions based on the consumption patterns of the Royal Oxen, this year’s harvests of rice, corn, and beans are expected to be abundant.

After the ceremonial ploughing was completed with three rounds of the royal plough, the royal Brahmin priest chanted the invocation and offered the Royal Oxen seven types of food, ceremonially arranged on large silver trays placed before the sacred ploughing grounds. These included rice, beans, corn, sesame seeds, fresh grass, water, and wine—each on a separate tray.

Following Khmer royal tradition, once the chanting concluded, the royal Brahmin sprinkled sacred water on the heads of both oxen. An official bearing the ceremonial plough then led the Royal Oxen to the food offerings. The oxen were allowed to freely choose from among the seven offerings, without any coercion or interference. Based on the items selected—whether one or several—the royal Brahmins interpret and forecast the prospects for the coming agricultural year.

While these divinations are not considered absolute predictions, they are traditionally interpreted as follows: if the oxen consume a particular item, it indicates abundance in that category for the year. If they consume grass, it foretells the spread of livestock diseases. If they consume wine, it is believed that social unrest, including theft and robbery, may increase.

At this morning’s Royal Ploughing Ceremony, the Royal Oxen consumed approximately 95% of the rice, 95% of the corn, and 80% of the beans. Based on this consumption, it is forecast that the rice, corn, and bean harvests will yield favourable results in the upcoming agricultural year.
=FRESH NEWS