Following the Western calendar, Japan observes Bodhi Day on December 8. Bodhi Day is observed by Buddhists all over the world. It marks the day when Siddhartha Gautama reached awakening — or enlightenment — about 2,600 years ago, becoming the Buddha.
When is Bodhi Day observed?
Following the Western calendar, Japan celebrates on December 8. It varies across East Asia, but the holiday normally falls between the winter solstice and the lunar new year, according to Scott Mitchell, dean of students at the Institute of Buddhist Studies in Berkeley, California. Southeast Asian and Tibetan Buddhists commemorate Buddha’s enlightenment in May and June, respectively, according to Judith Simmer-Brown, emeritus professor of contemplative and religious studies at Naropa University in Colorado.
Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment in what way?
It happened after years of spiritual seeking and meditation, including learning about the ultimate nature of existence: “In particular, the origins of human suffering, the cycle of birth and death (samsara), and the path to liberation (nirvana),” said Manuel Lopez, a professor of Buddhist Studies and Religion at New College of Florida, in an email.
Buddhism is the world’s fourth-largest religion, following Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism. The majority of Buddhists live in the Asia-Pacific area.
What Buddhist traditions commemorate Bodhi Day?
Not every Buddhist observes Bodhi Day. It is especially prevalent in East Asian Buddhist Mahayana traditions such as those found in Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. According to Mitchell, it is known as “Rohatsu” in Japanese Zen Buddhist schools, which means “the eighth day of the 12th month.” It is known as Jodo-e in certain other schools. It is observed as part of Vesak Day in Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, and other mainly Buddhist countries. Vesak Day, which occurs in May, commemorates the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death, according to Lopez.
How is Bodhi Day observed?
Celebrations vary, but participants pray and read scriptures (sutras). Some people decorate trees with coloured lights or candles to represent Buddha’s enlightenment, and they hold special family meals. Others, according to Lopez, participate in acts of kindness and charity (dana) to meditate on the Buddha’s message and enhance their karma. Some eat rice and milk, which are thought to have helped Buddha make his final push for enlightenment, according to Tricycle, a Buddhism-focused magazine, in its online “Buddhism for Beginners” section.