Vesak
May 23, Thursday
Vesak is dedicated to three key moments in Buddha's life:
Buddha’s Birth. It is believed that Siddhartha Gautama, the future Buddha, was born in the garden of Lumbini (in present-day Nepal) around 563 BCE. According to legend, he was born under a sal tree and immediately took seven steps, declaring his destiny to become enlightened.
Enlightenment (Bodhi). Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya at the age of 35. After years of asceticism and spiritual searching, he realized that the path to liberation from suffering lay in following the Middle Way, which involves moderation and inner contemplation.
Parinirvana (final liberation). Buddha passed away at the age of 80 in the city of Kushinagar, reaching the state of parinirvana — the final exit from the cycle of samsara (rebirth) and full liberation from all suffering.
These three events occurred during the full moon of the month of Vaisakha (April–May) according to the lunar calendar. Therefore, Vesak is always celebrated on the full moon, and it is observed differently in various countries depending on local traditions and beliefs. In some countries, Vesak is a public holiday.
Vesak Traditions and Rituals:
One of the main aspects of the holiday is visiting Buddhist temples, where believers gather for prayers, meditation, and participation in rituals. In some countries, especially in Southeast Asia, there is a ritual of bathing the statue of the infant Buddha, symbolizing the cleansing of the mind and heart from negativity and reminding people of the need for inner purification and spiritual growth. Water symbolizes purity, and the ritual itself reflects the quest for spiritual enlightenment.
Many Buddhist temples and monasteries are adorned with flowers, garlands, and bright lights. In the evening, beautiful ceremonies of lighting candles and oil lamps are held, symbolizing the light of enlightenment brought by the Buddha to humanity. The lights serve as a metaphor for wisdom, which drives away the darkness of ignorance.
Believers bring various offerings to temples, such as flowers, incense, food, and other essential items for monks. These offerings symbolize gratitude to the Buddha and a desire to follow his teachings. They also remind people of the transience of life: flowers wither, incense burns out, and candles melt, pointing to the impermanent nature of all things.
One important tradition during Vesak is the expression of compassion and kindness. On this day, Buddhists try to help those in need, distribute food to the poor, and release animals from captivity (such as birds and fish). This symbolizes the desire to free all living beings from suffering.
Releasing animals symbolizes liberation from suffering and attachment, a central idea in Buddhism. Vesak is not only a religious holiday but also a time for deep reflection, acts of kindness, and the pursuit of spiritual growth.