Buddhist Observances ...
Every day we are surrounded by Amida's light of Wisdom
and Compassion. When we become aware of this light, there is no need to
designate special days. However, we tend to forget the meaning of Buddhist
history and, therefore, the observance of a special religious day sharply
focuses our attention on some historic event or an important Buddhist
practice and deepens our appreciation of our rich heritage.
General Buddhist
January 1 - New Year's Day (Shusho-e)This is a day of
dedication. With renewed resolution we dedicate ourselves to the way of
the Nembutsu.
February 15 - Nirvana Day (Nehan-e) On this day we
solemnly observe the passing of Sakyamuni Buddha into Pari-nirvana.
March 21 - Higan (Higan-e), meaning
"other shore," is a service conducted in
spring on or about equinox day. At this time harmony rules throughout the
universe. Therefore, we gather before the shrine of Amida Buddha to devote
ourselves to the realization of this harmony in our inner lives.
April 8 - Buddha Day (Hanamatsuri) This service is held
to commemorate the birth of Gautama in Lumbini Garden. During the service a flower shrine
known as Hanamido is set up in front of the main shrine as a symbol of
Lumbini Garden. The sangha offers flowers and pours sweet tea over the
image of the infant Buddha.
July - August - Bon is a Buddhist Memorial Day. It is an
occasion for rejoicing in the enlightenment offered by the Buddha. It is
often referred to as a "Gathering of Joy."
September 23 - Higan (Higan-e) The sangha gathers twice
a year during the spring and autumn to recall the practices of Six
Paramitas.
December 8 - Bodhi Day (Jodo-e) Gautama meditated under
the Bodhi Tree (Tree of Enlightenment) and became a Buddha, perfect in
Wisdom and Compassion.
December 31 - New Year's Eve (Joya-e) On New Year's Eve
we meditate on the countless blessings we have received throughout the
year and express our gratitude to our parents, our nation, all beings and
Amida Buddha.
Shin Buddhist
January 16 - Shinran Shonin Memorial Day (Ho-on-ko),
is a day of thanksgiving for the teachings, and is observed in memory of Shinran Shonin (May 21, 1173-Jan.
16, 1262) the founder of Jodo Shinshu and first to teach absolute faith in Amida Buddha.
The Higashi (or East) Hongwanji observes the Ho-on-ko in November,
following the lunar calendar. The BCA is associated primarily with the
Nishi (or West) Hongwanji.
May 21 - Shinran Shonin Day (Gotan-e) Shinran Shonin was
born near Kyoto on May 21, 1173. On this day we observe his birth as the
founder of Jodo Shinshu.
