SANGHA DAY IS COMING UP AND IT'S A MAJOR BUDDHIST FESTIVAL

(public domain image from www.pixabay.com)

After the birth date of the Buddha, this is viewed as the second most important Buddhist day of celebration. Makkha Puja is commonly known as “Sangha Day” honoring the establishment of the Buddhist Sangha. Makkha means the third lunar month and Puja means to venerate or honor. Thus, Makkha Puja takes place on the first full moon in March and is a national holiday in many Southeastern Asian countries. It celebrates a day which took place nine months after the Buddha's awakening. At that time 1,250 disciples came to see the Buddha without being summoned where they were ordained by the Buddha and received the following instructions:

• to cease from negative actions
  
  
• to do what is good
  
  
• to purify and strengthen the mind
  
  

The Buddha concluded this meeting instructing the 1,250 to “wander forth” spreading the Dharma for “the good, the benefit and the awakening” of beings everywhere. Makkha Puja or Sangha Day is celebrated by going to a Temple to meditate and honor the Buddha. At a Temple it is customary to hear teachings, light candles and incense, contribute gifts of money, food and clothing to the monks for their use and distribution to the poor.

Join me and others this Friday (6-8pm) for a meditation retreat celebrating Sangha Day - chanting, silent meditation, guided meditation and a dharma talk.

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