Wesak Day signifies the Birthday, the Enlightenment and the Parinibbana (final passing away) of the Buddha. This most auspicious day is celebrated with great joy by Buddhists everywhere and I had the good fortune of being able to visit the Phor Tay Temple on Wesak morning, not only to offer prayers but to also take part in the annual Bathing of the Buddha ritual held in the temple's prayer hall.
According to legend, when Prince Siddharta was born, the sky was clear with brilliant sunshine, flowers were blooming and birds were singing. Dragons were even said to be spurting purified water that gently cascaded down to bathe him. At his birth, seven lotus flowers sprung up beneath his feet as he walked. Pointing one hand to the sky and ground, he said "In the heaven above and earth below, I vow to liberate all those who suffer in these three realms." Since then, Buddhists all over the world celebrate Wesak Day by using fragrant water to bathe the image of the Buddha.
When we bathe the Buddha statue, I was reminded that we should sincerely pray for purification of our own defilements of greed, hatred and anger. We should also pray for peace and harmony in the world. This is the true meaning of bathing the Buddha.
May the light of the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha always illuminate you and your family with good health, peace and happiness!
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