Auk Phansa marks the end of the three month period called Khao Phansa when Buddhist monks are not permitted to travel from place to place and must stay at a designated temple. Legend has it that this tradition came into existence when the farmers and villagers began to complain that when the monks travelled during the rainy season they trampled on the rice fields and crops of the farmers. When Buddha heard of these complaints, he saw the truth in them, and also realized that while travelling during the rainy season, monks were more liable to kill small animals such as earthworms and field rats (in Buddhism killing, even small animals, is considered a sin). Accordingly, he saw it fit that, for the three months of the rainy season, monks should abstain from travelling and stay stationary at one temple. During this time the monks should learn and practice religion. Only after the three months were over should the monks again be permitted to travel, thus giving birth to the Khao and Auk Phansa traditions.