Parinirvana Day
February 15, Thursday
Parinirvana Day is a Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day when Buddha Shakyamuni, according to Buddhist texts, attained complete nirvana after his physical death. This day is also known as Nirvana Day and is celebrated by various Buddhist schools, especially in East Asian countries such as Japan, China, Korea, and Vietnam. Parinirvana Day symbolizes the end of Buddha's earthly existence and his departure into eternal liberation. This day is important to Buddhists as a reminder of the goal of the spiritual path - to achieve enlightenment and freedom from suffering.How Parinirvana Day is Celebrated
Different Buddhist countries have their own characteristics about this holiday, but the main elements include:
Meditation and prayer. Buddhists gather in temples to meditate and read sutras, dedicating their practice to the Buddha and his teachings.
Memorial ceremonies. Parinirvana Day is also a time to honor the dead. Many Buddhists remember their relatives and friends who have passed away and pray for their safe rebirth.
Teachings and Lectures. Buddhist monasteries often hold lectures on the life of the Buddha, his teachings, and the attainment of nirvana to inspire followers to practice and improve themselves.
Offerings. On this day, Buddhists bring various offerings to temples - flowers, incense, food, and share these offerings with monks and anyone else who needs them.
Parinirvana Day in other years
- 2021 February 15, Monday
- 2022 February 15, Tuesday
- 2023 February 15, Wednesday
- 2025 February 15, Saturday