BUDDHA DAY May 20th 2016

Vesak day About Vesak Day Siddhartha Gautama, also commonly known as Buddha (enlightened one), lived in present-day India and Nepal between the sixth and fourth century BCE. His teachings focused on messages about compassion, peace and goodwill. Millions around the world follow the teachings of the Buddha today. The Day of Vesak commemorates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death..

What did Buddha teach? His teachings focused on messages about compassion, peace and goodwill

. Millions around the world follow the teachings of the Buddha today. Vesak - The Buddhist Festival of Light is the Sri Lankan word for the month of May. Vesak is the holiest day in Buddhism. Buddhists believe that it was in that month the most significant events of the Buddha’s existence took place. On this day are celebrated the birth, the Enlightenment, and the death of the Buddha. This day is usually in the middle or last two weeks of May.

The Day of Vesak commemorates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death. Celebrations vary from one country to another. In Thailand, for example, special Wesak lanterns are made of paper and wood, and often there are large ceremonial releases of caged birds. In China, traditional elements from Chinese culture, such as dancing dragons, are incorporated into the religious celebrations. In Indonesia, Wesak lanterns are made from paper and wood. Another popular custom in some countries is the release of caged birds, symbolising letting go of troubles and wishing that all beings be well and happy.

International Buddha Day In 1999 the UN recognized internationally Vesak Day to acknowledge the contribution that Buddhism, one of the oldest religions in the world, has made for over 2500 years.