Ceremony In Buddhism Essay

Ceremonies in Buddhism

Description:

Numerous holidays and festivals are celebrated by the Buddhist community. It is an established faith that Buddhism encompasses various rituals as per their tradition and custom. Throughout the year, special days and holidays are celebrated by the people of the Buddhist community. The Buddhist festivals are rejoicing occasions where in people visit the temples and monasteries and offer food to the monks.

Process:

Poya Ceremony: The Poya Ceremony takes place every full moon and the ceremony is called Poya as per the “Sinhala Language.” 12 or 13 Poya are held every year. Shops are supposed to remain closed during the Poya Ceremony and the consumption of meat and drinking of alcohol is forbidden on that day.

It is timed to coincide with the monsoon rains of South East Asia and India. During the Vassa ceremony, the monks are supposed to remain within their temples. During the time of Gautama Buddha, this day was observed by men and women. On the first day of Vassa, the monk declares to remain within the temple for a period of three months.

The Kathina Ceremony also known as “Robe offering” is again observed in the “Theravada Buddhist” tradition. This ceremony requires people to offer cloth for garments and other necessities to the monastic “Sangha.” This ceremony is performed every year in four weeks succeeding the end of the Vassa retreat. This ceremony requires going back to “Buddha” and “First Buddhist Monks.”

Uposatha Observance: These days mark the time of renewed dedication to “Dhamma” practice and is observed by monastic and followers throughout the world of “Theravada Buddhism.” These days signify more intense dedication on the part of the monastic whereas on the part of the followers the days signify ways to renew commitment to