Honey and beeswax are significantly important within Theravada Buddhism, primarily practiced in Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Thailand. With the onset of the rainy season, resident monks are retreating to a monastery for three months. The so-called "rains retreat" originated in the time of the historical Buddha and had the intention to protect crops. The monastics were traditionally presented with beeswax candles so they could study night and day. The end of this time is called Vassa, celebrated with the Pavarana festival, which in Thailand, includes the honey ceremony and a parade featuring decorated massive beeswax candles. 

In Buddhism, honey is important in the festival of Madhu Purnima. This commemorates the Buddha making peace by retreating into the wilderness.  When the Buddha observed rites in the Parilyeyok forest, an elephant brought him fruit, and a monkey brought honeycomb. The monkey, so excited by the Buddha’s acceptance of his gift, jumped from tree to tree and fell to his death. His joy was remembered in the name of the month that he died, which was Madhu Purnima translating to “honeyfull moon.” Madhu Purnima is celebrated in India and Bangladesh. On Madhu Purnima, Buddhists remember this act and observe this festival by bringing gifts of honey and fruit to the monks and monasteries. Honey nourished the Buddha several times of need, including the two meals he took immediately preceding and following his enlightenment.

The following verse, by Gautama Buddha, uses the metaphor of a bee to import wisdom about mindful living and interaction with the world. Bees gather nectar from flowers without causing harm to the flower itself, its color, or its scent. Similarly, a person should move through the village without causing harm or disturbance. It highlights the value of mindfulness in our interactions with others and the environment, reminding us to tread lightly and with care as we navigate through life.