Celebration of Dharma Day Service
Buddha’s Enlightenment Day, also known as “Dharma Day,” is on the eighth day of the 12th lunar month (December). It is an important day in which the Buddha attained enlightenment in this universe and realized the truth of life on the Vajra seat under the Bodhi Tree. Typically, on this day, the monastery will hold the Celebration of Dharma Day Service, prepare the Laba Porridge to develop affinities with the general public or use various activities to celebrate the “Dharma Day.”
In response to the compassionate vow of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan, all branches of Fo Guan Shan including those overseas, conduct various activities to commemorate this important Dharma Day in Buddhism. Activities include, but are not limited to, Buddhist forums, charity, affinity-building events, chanting, and prayers. Abbots, abbesses and venerables from all branch temples simultaneously echo Venerable Master’s vow by offering porridge instead of tea. According to the Buddhist sutra, “one who obtains the taste of the Dharma achieves the greatest satisfaction.” Venerable Master hopes that the Dharma joy generated from the Buddha’s enlightenment can be shared with everyone and that everyone receives blessings from the Buddha with an increase in wisdom.