Happy Birthday, Buddha!
Have you ever wanted to learn more about Buddhism but never had a chance? Well, today is a great day to make a start since it’s Buddha’s birthday! Learn more about the man who pioneered the path to Enlightenment and how his life and teachings are celebrated around the world.
According to the Theravada Tripitaka scriptures, Prince Siddhartha Gautama was born around the year 563 BCE in Lumbini in modern-day Nepal, and raised in Kapilavastu. It was prophesied upon his birth that he would either become a great king or wholly renounce the material world and become a holy man. Gautama eventually left his royal life behind to embark on a spiritual quest which would eventually come to mark the beginnings of one of the largest spiritual movements in the world.
Buddha’s birthday, also known as Vesak, Buddha Purnima, or Buddha Day, is one of the main holidays of Buddhism. Though the specific date on which it falls varies depending on the country and form of Buddhism practiced, Buddha’s birthday is always a day for celebration and reflection.
Celebrations
Though the day on which Buddha’s birthday falls and the way in which it is celebrated varies from place to place, a few traditions are shared across the many schools of Buddhism.
According to legend, when the Buddha was born he stood up straight, took seven steps, and declared “I alone am the World-Honored One.” Then, he pointed up with one hand and down with the other, symbolizing that he would unite heaven and earth. The ritual of washing the baby Buddha commemorates this moment. A small, standing figure of the baby Buddha is placed in a basin on an altar and a ladle filled with water or tea is then poured over the statue.
The lotus flower, a well-known symbol of Buddhism, is often used to adorn temples, altars and homes during the celebrations. In Malaysia, caged animals are set free on this day. In Korea, many temples provide free meals to all visitors.
In some countries, including India and Nepal, a sweet rice porridge is served to commemorate the story of a girl who laid a bowl of milk porridge at the feet of Siddhartha Gautama who was weak from following the practices of self-denial typically associated with asceticism. It is said that from that day forward, Siddhartha realized he could do nothing without food and so determined to no longer harm his body through stringent ascetic practices. Some say that the philosophy of the “middle way,” which is a cornerstone of Buddhism, is predicated on this moment.
Honoring Buddha
For Buddhists across the world, the birth of Siddhartha Gautama is undoubtedly one of the most important days of the Buddhist calendar. But others can also find meaning in many of the basic tenets, traditions and celebrations of Buddhism. Many non-Buddhists have adopted the practice of various forms of meditation, which plays a central role in Buddhism, as well as the values of compassion, awareness, mindfulness, and understanding towards oneself and others that Buddhism emphasizes.
So whether you attend a celebration, hang a lantern, or simply reflect on the words and teachings of Buddha, today we celebrate this “World-Honored One” who continues to bring peace and light to many, and who has most certainly made a lasting mark on the world.
What more would you like to learn about Buddhism and Gautama Buddha? Are you Buddhist with insights to share? If not, how is Buddhism similar to or different from your own faith? Let us know in the comments below!