Conception of Prince Siddhartha
The significance of Esala Full Moon Poya resonates deeply in the annals of Buddhism. On this auspicious day, over 2,000 years ago, Queen Mahamaya, in one of her past lives, had a dream foretelling the conception of a great being. This dream mirrored a thousand years later, led to the conception of Prince Siddhartha on the Esala Full Moon Poya Day. The joyous news of Queen Mahamaya’s pregnancy was a momentous occasion for the king, the queen, and all in the palace, as the couple had been childless for two decades.
The Great Renunciation
The story unfolds further as Prince Siddhartha, leading a luxurious life, realized the impermanence and suffering inherent in existence. Determined to find a solution to universal suffering, at the age of 29, the Prince embarked on the Great Renunciation, leaving behind the comforts of the palace to seek enlightenment. This profound event, a pivotal chapter in Buddhist history, occurred on an Esala Full Moon Poya Day, marking the beginning of the Buddha’s transformative journey.
First Discourse
Seven weeks after attaining Buddhahood, on another Esala Full Moon Poya Day, the Buddha delivered his first discourse, the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, to the five Ascetics at Isipathanaya in Benares. This sermon encapsulated the core teachings of Buddhism—the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. The eldest Kondangna Thera attained the first stage of sainthood, marking the inception of the Buddha’s monastic community.
Cultural and Ritual Significance in Sri Lanka
Esala Full Moon Poya holds multifaceted significance in Sri Lanka. The first local ordination, the convocation of the first Buddhist Council, and significant events in the life of the Buddha, such as his visit to Thusitha Heaven and the laying of the foundation for the Mahastupa or Ruwanvelisaya, contribute to the rich tapestry of events associated with this Poya Day. Additionally, the annual rains retreat of monks, ‘Vas,’ commences on the day following Esala Full Moon Poya.
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