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In a historic first this week, a candle-lighting ceremony to observe and commemorate the Buddha’s birth, attainment of enlightenment, and death was conducted at the White House in celebration of the day of Vesak. Lamps were lit, prayers were offered in the presence of Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff. Also present were representatives from various Buddhist traditions.
The occasion was accompanied by a statement from President Joe Biden, who announced it in his official message published by the White House on Wednesday:
[First Lady] Jill [Biden] and I extend our warmest wishes to Buddhists in the United States and around the world as they celebrate Vesak, a day honoring the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha. The ceremonial lighting of a lamp, the symbol of this holiday that has been celebrated for over 2,500 years, reminds us of Buddhism’s teachings of compassion, humility, and selflessness that endure today. On this day, we also commemorate the many contributions of Buddhists in America who enrich our communities and our country as we all work together toward brighter days ahead.
The occasion was accompanied by a statement from President Joe Biden, who announced it in his official message published by the White House on Wednesday:
[First Lady] Jill [Biden] and I extend our warmest wishes to Buddhists in the United States and around the world as they celebrate Vesak, a day honoring the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha. The ceremonial lighting of a lamp, the symbol of this holiday that has been celebrated for over 2,500 years, reminds us of Buddhism’s teachings of compassion, humility, and selflessness that endure today. On this day, we also commemorate the many contributions of Buddhists in America who enrich our communities and our country as we all work together toward brighter days ahead.
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