Due to the current circumstances with COVID-19, celebrations may look different this year as people adapt their traditional food and gatherings so they can observe these important holidays while physical distancing.
To help increase awareness of religious diversity, the Wellness and Inclusion Team at my department is bringing you the "Did you know?" series. This series features information on various religious and secular celebrations throughout the year.
Vesak (May 7, 2020)
Did you know?
Some of our colleagues will be celebrating Vesak.
- Vesak (also known as Buddha Day, Wesak or Buddha Burmina) commemorates the Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death. For millions of Buddhists around the world, it is the most sacred day.
- Vesak is celebrated annually on the full moon of the lunar month of Vesakha, which typically falls in May or June of the Gregorian calendar. The date changes each year and can differ among cultures depending on the calendar they follow.
- During Vesak, thousands of Buddhists flock to the Buddha's birthplace (Lumbini, Nepal), where they donate supplies to disadvantaged communities and pay tribute at monasteries.
- When Vesak arrives, Buddhists visit temples to bring offerings of food, candles and flowers to the monks, who then chant, pray and teach lessons. During a special ceremony called "bathing the Buddha," people pour water over a statue of Buddha as a sign of respect for the Buddha's teachings and a celebration of new beginnings.
- Each country has its own traditions and celebrations. Some celebrate by decorating their temples or homes with paper lanterns.
To all who celebrate, we wish you happy Vesak!
