Happy Wesak Day! Today is a holiday observed traditionally by the devout worshipers of Lord Buddha, the Enlightened One. Wesak Day is celebrated by Buddhists throughout the world. The day is sometimes known as Wesakha, is informally referred to as ‘Buddha’s Birthday’, with the special day being commemorated in honoring the birth, enlightenment (nirvana) as well as passing away (Parinirvana) of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha. The holiday is usually known by its Sanskrit name in Mahayana Buddhist traditions.
The commemoration of these events on Wesak Day usually begins at dawn at Buddhist temples throughout the country. Devotees gather to meditate on the Eight Precepts. Monks in saffron colored robes chant the sutras in unison. A candle procession is the highlight of the celebration, and at the same time, offerings of prayers, joss sticks, and incense, giving food to the needy and donations are also made.
As is customary, Wesak Day, a public holiday in Malaysia, sees devotees congregating at Buddhist temples, chanting religious hymns and carrying symbolic Buddhist icons in a procession symbolising purity. At some locations in Malaysia, decorated car floats are set to partake in a parade as part of the celebration.
May today brings contentment, peace and prosperity to those celebrating it~
#wesakday #PSSMY #wearemalaysia
