Definition

1. Verb:
   • To shave one's head and donate the hair: The primary meaning of "thí phát" is the act of shaving off one's own hair, typically as a form of almsgiving or donation, most commonly within a Buddhist context. The hair is often given to be used in making wigs or for other charitable purposes.
   • To take monastic vows (by shaving the head): In a religious sense, the act can symbolize renunciation and the beginning of a monastic life, as head-shaving is a key ritual in becoming a Buddhist monk or nun.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Cô ấy đã thí phát để quyên góp làm tóc giả cho bệnh nhân ung thư. (She shaved her head to donate hair for making wigs for cancer patients.)
  • Lễ thí phát là nghi thức quan trọng trước khi xuất gia. (The head-shaving ceremony is an important ritual before ordination.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is almost exclusively used in formal, religious, or charitable contexts. It is not used for casual haircuts or head shaving.

Variants and Related Words

• Xuất gia (v): to leave home to become a monk/nun; to ordain. This is the broader process which includes "thí phát" as a key step.
• Cạo đầu (v): to shave one's head. This is the general, secular term for the action without the connotation of donation or ordination.

Synonyms

• To donate one's hair: The core charitable act.
• To tonsure: A formal term for the shaving of the head, especially upon entering a religious order.

Related Cultural Notes

• "Thí phát" is a compound word from "thí" (to give alms, to donate) and "phát" (hair). It embodies the Buddhist virtue of selfless giving ("bố thí").
• The practice highlights a physical sacrifice (one's hair) for a spiritual or charitable cause, representing detachment from vanity and worldly attachment.