Vesak Day, known as Phật Đản in Vietnamese, celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Buddha in Vietnam. Buddhists throughout Vietnam mark this day with acts of generosity, volunteering, and decorating temples. Vegetarian meals, simple parades, and lantern ceremonies by the river are also popular festivities.
Origin of Vesak Day in Vietnam
Vesak, also called Buddha Jayanti, Buddha Purnima, and Buddha Day, is a tradition observed traditionally by Buddhists in South and Southeast Asia. Celebrating Vesak involves special efforts to bring happiness to the less fortunate. Buddhists distribute gifts and volunteer in various charitable works across the country. Vesak is a time of great joy and happiness, expressed not by indulging in desires but by focusing on useful activities such as decorating and lighting temples or creating exquisite scenes of Buddha’s life for public display.
Significance of Vesak Day
Vesak Day in Vietnam.
Buddha’s birthday provides Buddhists with an opportunity to reflect on their lives and meditate on Buddha’s precious teachings. It is not just a chance to honor Buddha but also an opportunity for each person to look within themselves. This special day reminds Buddhists of compassion and kindness, creating conditions for each individual to become a better version of themselves, contribute positively to society, and bring happiness to those around them.
Where does it take place?
Vesak Day is celebrated not only in Vietnam but in many countries around the world. Nations such as Thailand, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Cambodia also offer a variety of activities to mark this international festival.
In Thailand and Sri Lanka, people often engage in charitable works, offering gifts to the needy and disabled. In Korea and Japan, celebrations frequently include events honoring Buddhism, such as parades and artistic performances. If you plan to travel to Vietnam during this time, you should experience spiritual serenity and ceremony.
When does it take place in 2024?
Vesak Day in Vietnam is a religious festival organized on the 15th day of the 4th month every year according to the lunar calendar, which is May 23 in 2024. It is one of the three major Buddhist festivals in South and Southeast Asia, marking the birth of Buddha.
Activities during Vesak Day in Vietnam 2024
Vesak Day in Vietnam 2024 at Bai Dinh Temple – Ninh Binh
The celebration offers a series of exciting programs. The first involves recreating the scene of Buddha’s procession, creating a solemn and sacred space, and showing deep devotion and respect for Buddha. The ritual bath for Buddha’s birthday is one of the most important rituals of the festival. It is a privileged moment where everyone can turn to spirituality and pray for peace and happiness for the entire world. Cultural shows celebrating Buddha’s birthday also contribute to creating a joyful and colorful atmosphere during the festival. Talented and creative performances will bring laughter, deep appreciation, and spiritual inspiration to the audience.
The ritual bath for Buddha’s birthday is important during Vesak Day.
Vesak Day in Vietnam 2024 in Ho Chi Minh City
Temples will organize many activities on Buddha’s birthday and many volunteer activities for those in need. Every year, on the full moon of the fourth month of the lunar calendar, temples organize a magnificent ceremony of releasing flower lanterns in the area in front of the pagoda. This beautiful tradition aims to celebrate Vesak Day while invoking wishes for national prosperity and peace of mind. Each participant is graciously offered a flower lantern and has the opportunity to write warm wishes for their loved ones. Then, these flower lanterns are delicately released into canals, carrying with them the hope of luck and peace.
What do you do during Vesak Day 2024?
Vegan meals
These days, vegetarianism has become a popular trend, attracting not only families but also young people on special days such as the first day and the full moon of the lunar calendar, and especially Buddha’s birthday. Fasting not only has spiritual significance but also helps the body eliminate toxins and relieve the mind, and is also beneficial for health. Preparing a vegetarian meal doesn’t need to be too complicated; just use fresh vegetables, fruits, and plants. Cleaning the house, cleaning the altar On Buddha’s birthday, cleaning the house and altar is a way to show respect for the grand ceremony. Additionally, this work also helps the family and community become more united, creating a spirit of joy, serenity, and peace.
Visit temple
If conditions permit, you can go to the temple to listen to sermons or offer flowers and incense at the Buddha’s altar, taking time to reflect on life’s difficulties. This helps the mind relax and eliminate disturbing thoughts. If you have found refuge, please help the temple prepare ceremonies, assisting and guiding visitors.
Volunteer
On Buddha’s birthday, as well as on ordinary days, engage in many benevolent actions and offer your help to those going through difficulties. Following the spirit taught by Buddha, perform altruistic actions to share and manifest compassion, without seeking personal benefits.
Animal Liberation
On this special day, join the Buddhist community by participating in the liberation of animals such as birds and fish…
Meditation and Chants
Take time on this day to meditate and chant. Meditation helps soothe the soul, bringing tranquility and peace. Chanting sutras is a respectful way to show your devotion to Buddha and the saints.
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