Deep homage to the Great Renunciation of Prince Siddhattha (Shakyamuni Buddha) on the monthly Uposatha Day at Ba Vang Pagoda
“..I shaved off my hair and beard, dressed in ocher robes, and went forth from the lay life to homelessness. Once I had gone forth, I set out to discover what is skillful, seeking the supreme state of sublime peace. Having gone forth, Bhikkhus, in search of what is wholesome, I seek the supreme state of sublime peace, and attain the unborn supreme security from bondage, Nirvana.” (Excerpt from the Sutra on the Noble Search)
Every year on the eighth day of the second lunar month, Buddhists' hearts are filled with profound emotion to commemorate Prince Siddhatthas Great Renunciation. His renunciation is regarded as the greatest renunciation in human history. In his prime of youth, he possessed great strength, absolute royal power, and the love of all around him, along with a beautiful wife and a newborn son. However, he bravely chose to give up all in search of truth and a path to end suffering for all beings, both humanity and the heavenly realms.
With deep reverence, on the occasion of Prince Siddhatthas Renunciation Day, which also coincides with a regular day of practice at Ba Vang Pagoda, Buddhist rituals were solemnly held under the instruction of Thay Thich Truc Thai Minh and the guidance of the Sangha. Participants observed the eight precepts, engaged in chanting and meditation to reflect on the profound merit of Prince Siddhatthas great renunciation. Through these wholesome practices, the community also had the opportunity to cultivate meritorious deeds in the Three Jewels.
Especially, in the afternoon Dharma talk, the assembly listened attentively to Thays profound teachings, further nurturing their heartfelt sense of gratitude for this great milestone in Buddhist history: “Had Prince Siddhattha not renounced the worldly life, we would not have the Dharma to practice or the light of the Dharma to lead us through the long and murky night of this secular world. Without this renunciation, we would remain caught in the darkness of ignorance for countless lifetimes. Therefore, everyone should remember and honor the profound merit of his renunciation on this commemoration day.”
May faith continue to grow from this occasion. May each person nourish noble aspirations within so that the seed of renunciation will be sown and flourish in the mind. Following the example of Prince Siddhattha (or Shakyamuni Buddha), may we awaken and aspire to follow his path.
On the Uposatha Day, the lay Buddhists of Ba Vang Pagoda come to the Pagoda for a day of focused Buddhist practice
The Sangha led a chanting session for participants to join in devotion
The ceremony took place in a solemn atmosphere
Under the guidance of the monks, the Buddhists settle their minds during the meditation session
"Meditation brings numerous benefits. Among them are three fundamental things: enhancing physical health, developing willpower and resilience, and awakening wisdom." - Thay Thich Truc Thai Minh
Does anyone want to experience this peaceful and tranquil moment?
Thay Thich Truc Thai Minh shared a Dharma talk entitled “The path we all must walk."
Monks, nuns, and Buddhists attentively listened to Thay's profound words
Everyone attentively listened to Thays teachings
The repentance ceremony was solemnly conducted in the evening
Buddhists attentively followed the Sangha to repent of their sins and mistakes
The ceremony took place in a solemn atmosphere, filled with many emotions
The attendees joined their hands and directed their minds to the Three Jewels, following the monks to chant the sutra and repent of their sins and mistakes
May the Buddhist participants be more diligent in their Buddhist practice, benefiting their families and the country
