Vesak

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The birth of the Buddha; scene with Queen Maya Wellcome V0046076

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WesakDay

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Borobudur on Vesak Day 2011

Wesak at Mara Vihara

Vesak (

, Sanskrit: वैशाख , also known as Buddha Purnima and Buddha Day), is a major Buddhist festival celebrated for the birth, enlightenment (Bodhi), and death (Parinirvāṇa) of Gautama Buddha in the Theravada or southern tradition. It is observed on the full moon in the month of May in the lunar calendar.

History

Vesak is considered one of the most important days in the Buddhist calendar as it commemorates the key events in the life of Gautama Buddha. Traditionally, Vesak is celebrated on the full moon day of the Vaisakha month of the Buddhist lunar calendar, which usually falls in May or early June in the Gregorian calendar. The exact date of Vesak varies from year to year and between countries, depending on their lunar calendar.

Significance

The day is celebrated to honor the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha, which are said to have all occurred on the same day of the year. It is a time for Buddhists to reflect on the life and teachings of the Buddha. Devotees engage in various religious practices such as offering food to the monks, partaking in meditation, observing the Five Precepts, and participating in processions.

Celebrations

Vesak celebrations vary widely across countries but often include some common elements such as decorating temples with Buddhist flags and lanterns, the release of doves or birds as a symbol of peace, and the lighting of candles. In some countries, devotees also partake in the bathing of the Buddha, a ritual where water is poured over the shoulders of the Buddha statue to remind followers to purify their own minds from greed, hatred, and ignorance.

Global Recognition

In 1999, the United Nations recognized Vesak as an international day of observance, acknowledging its importance not only in Buddhist countries but also in promoting peace and understanding across cultures worldwide.

See Also

• Buddhism
• Gautama Buddha
• Bodhi
• Parinirvāṇa
• Lunar calendar