At its heart, Kathina embodies the symbiotic relationship between the monastic and lay communities, a cornerstone of Buddhist society. In Theravada Buddhism, where Kathina finds its most elaborate expression, the ceremony marks the culmination of the three-month rainy season retreat known as Vassa.

As the monsoon rains subside and monks emerge from their period of intensive practice, lay followers gather to offer new robes and other necessities. This act of generosity, or dana, is not merely material support but a profound spiritual practice that generates merit and strengthens the bonds of the Buddhist community.

The Mahavagga of the Vinaya Pitaka, one of the earliest Buddhist texts, sanctifies this practice: "I allow you, monks, to accept a kathina-cloth. And thus should it be accepted..." This ancient authorization has given rise to a ceremony rich in symbolism and significance. A single monk, chosen to represent the entire Sangha, receives the Kathina robe in a ritual that must be completed within one month after Vassa's end. This time-bound nature of the ceremony adds to its special character, creating a sense of urgency and focus among the faithful.

In Mahayana Buddhism, we find that Kathina, as a specific ceremony, generally fades from view. However, the underlying principles—supporting the Sangha, marking the end of retreats, and fostering lay-monastic relationships—remain vibrant, albeit in different forms.

Some Mahayana schools, particularly those with historical or geographical proximity to Theravada traditions, may observe practices reminiscent of Kathina. Yet, broadly speaking, Mahayana Buddhism has developed its own unique ceremonies and practices, often placing greater emphasis on Bodhisattva vows and rituals that reflect its distinct philosophical outlook.

Tibetan Buddhism, a form of Vajrayana often considered a subset of Mahayana, presents yet another variation. While the three-month summer retreat known as Yarne bears similarities to Vassa, it doesn't conclude with a Kathina-like ceremony. Instead, Tibetan Buddhism has cultivated its own rich tradition of ceremonies, such as the Monlam Prayer Festival. These events, while distinct from Kathina, serve similar purposes of bringing the community together, supporting the monastic order, and providing opportunities for merit-making.

Despite these differences, a common thread runs through all these traditions: the recognition of the monastic community's vital role and the importance of lay support. Whether through the formal Kathina ceremony in Theravada Buddhism or through various other practices in Mahayana and Tibetan traditions, the fundamental Buddhist values of generosity, community, and mutual support between lay and monastic practitioners remain constant.

This diversity in practice reminds us of the Buddha's wisdom in allowing his teachings to be learned and shared in local dialects, as recorded in the Cullavagga: "I allow you, monks, to learn the Buddha's words each in his own dialect." This adaptive approach has allowed Buddhism to flourish in diverse cultures, each developing its own ways of expressing core Buddhist principles.

In conclusion, while the specific observance of Kathina may be primarily associated with Theravada Buddhism, its spirit lives on in various forms across the Buddhist world. From the formal robing ceremony in a Thai temple to the offerings made in a Tibetan monastery, these practices reflect the enduring importance of supporting the Sangha and marking significant moments in the Buddhist calendar. As we appreciate these differences, we also recognize the underlying unity—a shared commitment to the Buddha's teachings and the flourishing of the Dharma in all its manifestations.