Arrival of the Sacred Bo Tree Sapling

Unduvap Full Moon Poya celebrates a significant historical event linked to the arrival of the Bo tree sapling in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. This revered sapling was brought to the island by Sangamitta Theri, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka, marking a pivotal moment in the spread of Buddhism.

The roots of this celebration trace back to Lord Buddha’s attainment of Enlightenment under a Bodhi Tree in Bihar, India. In the 3rd century BC, Sangamitta Theri transported a sapling from the very tree associated with the Buddha’s enlightenment to Sri Lanka. The arrival of this sacred sapling coincides with Unduvap Poya day.

In 288 BC, King Devanampiya Tissa planted the Bo tree sapling in the Mahamevnāwa Park in Anuradhapura, where it continues to thrive today. Remarkably, it stands as the oldest living human-planted tree in the world with a known planting date, embodying the enduring spiritual connection between Sri Lankan Buddhists and this sacred relic.

Spiritual Homage in Anuradhapura

Unduvap Poya day draws thousands of devotees to Anuradhapura, creating a spiritual pilgrimage to pay homage to the sacred Bo tree. This revered relic holds profound significance for Buddhists in Sri Lanka and around the world, symbolizing the roots of their faith.

As part of the Unduvap Poya observance, devotees engage in rituals and activities centered around observing the five precepts. These ethical guidelines serve as a compass for leading exemplary lives and fostering a deeper connection with Buddhist teachings.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Anuradhapura, once a flourishing Ceylonese political and religious capital for 1,300 years, boasts a rich cultural heritage. Abandoned after a 993 AD invasion, the city remained hidden in dense jungle until rediscovered. Its splendid palaces, monasteries, and monuments have contributed to its UNESCO World Heritage Site status since 1982.

The inclusion of Anuradhapura on the UNESCO list signifies a cultural revival, allowing access to this historical site once again. Devotees and visitors alike can explore the remnants of a bygone era, immersing themselves in the cultural tapestry that underscores the enduring significance of Unduvap Full Moon Poya.

Ill Full Moon Poya, typically observed in November in the Western calendar, holds significance as the penultimate Poya of the year. This auspicious day marks the conclusion of the rainy season and the culmination of the three-month retreat known as Vassana-Samaya.

Traditions and Significance

Ill Full Moon Poya is a celebration of the Bodhisatta Maitriya obtaining Vivarana—the assurance of becoming a Buddha. Additionally, it commemorates the moment when The Buddha commissioned 60 disciples to disseminate his teachings. A notable tradition associated with this Poya is the laying of the foundation stone for Thuparamaya, Sri Lanka’s first stupa after the introduction of Buddhism.

Rituals and Observances

On Ill Full Moon Poya, many Sri Lankan Buddhists embark on a pilgrimage to Thuparamaya in Anuradhapura. Here, they offer flowers and engage in reflective practices to honor the significant events tied to this bell-shaped stupa. The day serves as a time for deep contemplation on the profound teachings of the Buddha.

Cultural Pilgrimage to Thuparamaya

A distinctive aspect of the Ill Full Moon Poya is the cultural pilgrimage to Thuparamaya. Devotees travel to this historic stupa to pay their respects, fostering a connection with the rich Buddhist heritage of Sri Lanka. This pilgrimage becomes a communal expression of reverence and gratitude towards the teachings of the Buddha.

In the intricate tapestry of the Buddhist calendar, Vap Poya stands as the third most significant event, following Vesak and Poson. While Vesak in May is a global commemoration of the Buddha’s Birth, Enlightenment, and Parinibbana, and Poson in June marks the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka, Vap Poya weaves its own narrative of historical and spiritual importance.

The Roots of Significance

The roots of Vap Poya’s significance stretch back over 2,500 years to the northern plains of India. It was during the royal Vap Magula, the Ploughing Festival, that King Suddhodana, the Sakya King of Kapilavasthupura, made a profound discovery. As royal astrologers had predicted at Prince Siddhartha’s birth, the young prince would grow up to be a great man. The event unfolded as the king, the first to furrow the land, made the soil ready for its first paddy seeds. However, during this auspicious ceremony, the five-month-old Prince Siddhartha went missing.

A Divine Revelation

In a state of panic, King Suddhodana searched for his son, only to find him in a leafy glade, seated cross-legged in a lotus pose, absorbed in deep meditation with his frame levitating. This extraordinary sight moved the king to pay salutation to his son, and thus, Vap Poya became etched in history as the day when Prince Siddhartha’s spiritual prowess was revealed.

Return from Tavatimsa

As the narrative unfolds, Vap Poya takes on even more layers of significance. It was on this full moon day that Gautama Buddha returned to Sankassa Pura from the heavenly abode of Tavatimsa. His mother, who had passed away seven days after giving birth to him, resided there. In a profound moment, Buddha preached the Abidhamma, the deepest aspect of his philosophy, to his mother. This act enabled her to attain ‘Sotapanna,’ the first of the four states leading to Enlightenment.

Historical Events

The future Buddha, as a Bodhisattva still on the path, entered the Order with 500 followers on Vap Poya. Sri Lankan Buddhists also commemorate significant events related to the establishment of Buddhism in their country on this day. King Devanampiyatissa, desiring the ordination of his sister-in-law Anula Devi as a Bhikkuni, requested Indian Emperor Asoka to send his royal daughter Sanghamitta Theri to the island. Her arrival marked the establishment of the Bhikkuni Sangha, allowing Anula Devi to be ordained as a Buddhist nun. Additionally, Sanghamitta Theri brought a sapling of the sacred Bodhi Tree, which still thrives in Anuradhapura, symbolizing the deep roots of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Establishing Buddhism in Sri Lanka

Aritta, the King’s Minister, entered the Order on Vap Poya, a crucial step in firmly establishing Buddhism on the island, as advised by Arahant Mahinda. The day also sees the continuation of the Katina Pinkama, an observance lasting a lunar month until the November full moon day. During the Buddha’s time, this period, known as ‘Wassana Kalo,’ marked the rainy retreat when monks stayed inside their temples. Lay people provided daily meals and other necessities, a tradition upheld even in modern times.

The post-Vap Poya period signals the end of Buddhist Lent, marking Buddha’s return to earth after preaching the Abhidamma in Tavatimsa.

Harmony of Agriculture and Spirituality

Amidst these spiritual celebrations, the October monsoon rains usher in the Maha paddy season. Vap Magula, a special plowing ceremony, becomes a symbolic act led by the Head of State and farmers, signifying the beginning of sowing the nation’s staple diet – rice. The intersection of agricultural traditions and spiritual observances during Vap Poya reflects a harmonious blend of sustenance and spirituality in Sri Lanka.

Public Holiday and Spiritual Reflection

As Buddhists participate in age-old religious activities during this public holiday, the full moon day of Vap, the seventh month in the Sinhalese calendar, takes center stage. It’s a time to reflect on the richness of traditions, the deep spiritual roots of Buddhism, and the enduring tapestry of cultural practices that continue to shape the identity of Sri Lankan Buddhists.

The Establishment of Bhikkhuni Sangha

Binara Full Moon Poya holds historical significance in Sri Lanka as Buddhists commemorate the establishment of the Bhikkhuni Sasanaya, the Order of the Female Buddhist Monastic. The inaugural ordination witnessed the veneration of Mahapajapathi Gothami, the stepmother of Buddha, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Bhikkhuni Sangha.

Mahapajapathi Gothami

Delve into the life of Mahapajapathi Gothami, the younger sister of Queen Maha Maya and stepmother to Buddha. After the Queen’s passing, Mahapajapathi Gothami assumed the role of raising the young prince and later married Buddha’s father, King Suddodhana. Her ordination during Binara Poya stands as a testament to her pivotal role in shaping Buddha’s early life.

Binara Poya Celebrations

Binara Poya coincides with the continuation of the Vas season, where bhikkuni engage in focused meditation within their monasteries. The month also features a vibrant Perahara at Mahiyangana, highlighting the indigenous Veddah people’s participation. The Mahiyangana Stupa, built to commemorate Buddha’s inaugural visit to Sri Lanka, serves as a sacred backdrop to these cultural celebrations.

Nikini Poya, the second Poya in the Vas season falling in August, holds a sacred place in the Buddhist calendar. As part of the Vas retreat initiated with Esala Poya, Nikini Poya extends over four months, during which Buddhist monks abstain from outdoor activities, delving into intense spiritual pursuits. This period fosters a profound connection between monks and lay devotees, offering a unique opportunity for discussions and guidance.

Vas Retreat and Monastic Discipline

The Vas retreat, mandated by the Buddha centuries ago, is a period of deep introspection and meditation for monks. This spiritual seclusion not only enhances the monks’ focus on their path to enlightenment but also opens avenues for meaningful interactions with the lay community. Lay devotees, recognizing the monks’ accessibility during Vas, actively contribute to their welfare and needs.

First Buddhist Council

The historical significance of Nikini Poya revolves around the first Dhamma Sangayana held in the Sattapanni Cave in Rajagahanuwara. Three months after the Parinirvana of the Buddha, senior disciples felt a need to establish and reinforce monastic principles. Presided over by Mahakassapa Thero, this convocation aimed to address unseemly behavior by a monk within the Maha Sangha. Notably, Ananda Thero, the Buddha’s chief disciple, attained Arahantship during this event, marking a pivotal moment in Buddhist history.

Nikini Poya in Sri Lanka

In Sri Lanka, Nikini Poya unfolds as a day of religious fervor and observances. Devotees visit temples with offerings of flowers, engaging in religious rituals to commemorate this auspicious day. Adding to its cultural richness, Nikini Poya holds a special place in the conclusion of the annual Kandy Esala Perahera. The grandeur of the Perahera, culminating in a Day Perahera on Nikini Full Moon Poya, captivates spectators with its vibrant cultural display and spiritual significance.

Vesak, also known as Buddha Purnima, is a profound celebration observed by Buddhists worldwide. It encapsulates the triple commemoration of the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Siddhartha Gautama, who later became known as Lord Buddha.

Birth of Prince Siddhartha

The divine inquiry about the right time, area, continent, caste, and mother culminated in Queen Mahamaya giving birth to Siddhartha under the arbor of Sat trees in Lumbini, Nepal. This auspicious event, marking the beginning of the Buddha’s earthly journey, unfolded on a Vesak Poya day.

Attainment as Lord Buddha

After extensive training under various teachers, Gautama Buddha, disillusioned by their teachings, embarked on a solitary path of meditation. The culmination of his efforts occurred on a Vesak Poya day when he reached enlightenment and became the Buddha, the Awakened One.

Lord Buddha’s Parinibbana

The great teacher, at the age of 80, foretold his imminent passing away or Parinibbana, choosing Vesak Poya day for this momentous event. The culmination of his earthly journey occurred in the Sal grove of the Malla royal family, leaving an indelible mark on Vesak.

Global Religious and Cultural Activities

While Vesak has deep roots in Sri Lanka, its significance extends globally, finding resonance in many Asian countries, including India, Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan. This universal celebration reflects the widespread impact of Buddha’s teachings and the timeless relevance of his message.

During the Vesak period, various religious activities take center stage in Sri Lanka. Sil campaigns, Bodhi Poojas, Dansalas (food-sharing stalls), Vesak devotional songs (Bakthi Gee), pandols (thorans), and lantern displays contribute to the vibrant atmosphere, fostering a sense of community and spirituality.

The heart of Vesak lies in the devout practices carried out by Buddhists across the country. Temples become focal points for devotees and pilgrims, who engage in traditional ceremonies involving worship, flower offerings, lighting lamps, and burning incense. These rituals not only satisfy religious needs but also create an emotionally charged and sacred environment.

Integral to Vesak is the practice of ‘Dana’ or alms-giving, symbolizing the spirit of generosity and compassion. During the Vesak Festival week, a notable shift occurs as the sale of alcohol and meat is prohibited, aligning with the Buddhist principles of non-violence and mindfulness. Devotees reaffirm their commitment to Buddha’s teachings by engaging in acts of kindness and charity.

Poson Poya Day, celebrated on the full moon day of June, marks a pivotal moment in Sri Lanka’s history—the arrival of Buddhism in the 3rd century BC. The festival commemorates the conversion of King Devanampiyatissa by Arahat Mahinda, the son of Emperor Asoka of India. Over 2,000 years ago, this event unfolded, shaping the cultural and religious landscape of the island.

Mihintale and Anuradhapura

While Poson is observed across Sri Lanka, the primary centers of celebration are Mihintale and Anuradhapura. Mihintale, the ancient monastic complex, witnessed the first sermon delivered by Mahinda to the ruling king. Anuradhapura, the ancient capital, draws large crowds of pilgrims converging to partake in mass religious observances, illuminations, and pageants.

Cultural Impact

Often referred to as the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Mihintale played a pivotal role in the island’s cultural evolution. With the establishment of Bhikku Sasanaya, various elements of a civilized society emerged, including the arts, architecture, river civilization, religious rituals, literature, and royal patronage.

Religious and Cultural Activities

Poson unleashes a wave of religious activities and cultural festivities throughout Sri Lanka. Sil campaigns, Bodhi Poojas, Dansalas (food-sharing stalls), Poson devotional songs, pandols (thorans), and lantern displays adorn the streets and public places. Temples overflow with devotees clad in pure white, engaging in silent contemplation.

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.

The roots of Theravada Buddhism delve deep into the Pali Canon, unveiling the profound teachings of Dependent Origination. This foundational concept explicates the intricate connections governing the cycle of birth, suffering, and liberation.

Twelve Interrelated Links

Central to Dependent Origination are the twelve links that intricately weave the fabric of existence. These links, ranging from ignorance to aging and death, portray the voyage of birth and rebirth. The symbolic representation of the Voyage of Becoming vividly illustrates the perpetual journey of sentient beings sustained by these interconnected links.

“And what, bhikkhus, is dependent origination? With ignorance as condition, volitional formations come to be; with volitional formations as condition, consciousness; with consciousness as condition, name-and-form; with name-and-form as condition, the six sense bases; with the six sense bases as condition, contact; with contact as condition, feeling; with feeling as condition, craving; with craving as condition, clinging; with clinging as condition, existence; with existence as condition, birth; with birth as condition, aging-and-death, sorrow, lamentation, pain, displeasure, and despair come to be. Such is the origin of this whole mass of suffering. This, bhikkhus, is called dependent origination.
“But with the remainderless fading away and cessation of ignorance comes cessation of volitional formations; with the cessation of volitional formations, cessation of consciousness; with the cessation of consciousness, cessation of name-and-form; with the cessation of name-and-form, cessation of the six sense bases; with the cessation of the six sense bases, cessation of contact; with the cessation of contact, cessation of feeling; with the cessation of feeling, cessation of craving; with the cessation of craving, cessation of clinging; with the cessation of clinging, cessation of existence; with the cessation of existence, cessation of birth; with the cessation of birth, aging-and-death, sorrow, lamentation, pain, displeasure, and despair cease. Such is the cessation of this whole mass of suffering.”

(Paṭiccasamuppādasutta- SN 12.1)

Nibbana as Liberation

The ultimate goal in Theravada Buddhism is liberation from the ceaseless voyage of birth and death. Nibbana, or Nirvana, represents the extinguishing of craving, ignorance, and the cessation of suffering. Overcoming ignorance becomes the pivotal point for breaking the cycle, leading to the attainment of Nibbana.

The Path to Liberation

Culminating in the Noble Eightfold Path, the journey to liberation involves understanding and practicing right understanding, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration. This transformative path guides practitioners towards wisdom, ethical conduct, and the cultivation of compassion, providing a clear route to break free from the cycle of Dependent Origination.

Conclusion

In the intricate tapestry of Theravada Buddhism, Dependent Origination stands as a beacon of understanding, offering profound insights into the nature of existence and the path to liberation. As practitioners embark on this transformative journey, the interconnected links unravel, paving the way to Nibbana and the cessation of suffering.

Theravada Buddhism, the ancient school of Buddhism, encapsulates the essence of the Noble Eightfold Path. This path serves as a comprehensive guide for followers on their journey towards enlightenment, offering a roadmap to navigate life’s complexities. Rooted in the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, the Noble Eightfold Path outlines a transformative way of living, thinking, and being.

Understanding the Noble Eightfold Path

1. Right Understanding (Samma Ditthi): At the foundation of the Noble Eightfold Path is Right Understanding. It involves grasping the Four Noble Truths – the reality of suffering, its origins, the possibility of cessation, and the path leading to cessation. This understanding sets the stage for a profound shift in perspective.
2. Right Intention (Samma Sankappa): Following Right Understanding is Right Intention. This step emphasizes cultivating wholesome intentions and aligning one’s purpose with the pursuit of liberation. It involves renouncing harmful thoughts and fostering compassion and goodwill.
3. Right Speech (Samma Vaca): The path then unfolds into Right Speech, emphasizing truthful, kind, and beneficial communication. Words hold immense power, shaping reality and relationships. Right Speech encourages mindfulness in verbal expressions, fostering harmony and understanding.
4. Right Action (Samma Kammanta): Moving beyond speech, Right Action directs individuals towards ethical conduct. It involves abstaining from actions that cause harm, such as killing, stealing, and engaging in sexual misconduct. Right Action promotes a life founded on principles of non-violence and integrity.
5. Right Livelihood (Samma Ajiva): Integrating ethical principles into one’s livelihood, Right Livelihood guides individuals to choose occupations that align with the path of righteousness. It discourages professions that involve harming living beings or engaging in deceptive practices.
6. Right Effort (Samma Vayama): Right Effort propels practitioners towards the diligent cultivation of positive qualities and the eradication of negative tendencies. It involves nurturing mindfulness, concentration, and the development of wholesome states of mind.
7. Right Mindfulness (Samma Sati): Central to the path is Right Mindfulness, urging individuals to be present and aware of the mind in every moment. Mindfulness extends beyond meditation, permeating daily activities. It involves observing thoughts, emotions, and actions without attachment or aversion based on the four foundations of Mindfulness.
8. Right Concentration (Samma Samadhi): Culminating in Right Concentration, the path emphasizes the development of focused, tranquil states of mind. Through meditation, practitioners deepen their concentration, ultimately experiencing profound insights and awakening in the four Jhanas.

The Interconnectedness of the Noble Eightfold Path

Each aspect of the Noble Eightfold Path is interconnected, forming a holistic framework for spiritual development. The path is not linear but a simultaneous and harmonious progression. For instance, Right Mindfulness supports Right Concentration, while Right Understanding underpins the entire journey. This interdependence reflects the multifaceted nature of the path.

The Transformative Power of the Noble Eightfold Path

The Noble Eightfold Path serves as a transformative force, offering practitioners a means to break free from the cycle of suffering and rebirth. By aligning thoughts, intentions, and actions with the path, individuals gradually overcome ignorance and craving, paving the way for enlightenment.

Challenges on the Path

Embarking on the Noble Eightfold Path is not without challenges. It requires commitment, self-reflection, and resilience. The path acknowledges the inherent difficulties in breaking free from conditioned habits and attachments, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and patience.

The Role of Meditation in the Noble Eightfold Path

Meditation plays a pivotal role in the Noble Eightfold Path, particularly in developing Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration. Meditation serves as a practical tool for cultivating awareness, concentration, and insight. Various meditation techniques guide practitioners on their internal exploration, facilitating a deep understanding of the nature of the mind.

Practical Application in Daily Life

The teachings of the Noble Eightfold Path extend beyond the meditation cushion into daily life. Practitioners are encouraged to integrate the path’s principles into their interactions, relationships, and decision-making. The path becomes a living philosophy, shaping a life of wisdom, ethical conduct, and compassion.

Walking the Noble Eightfold Path

In conclusion, the Noble Eightfold Path stands as a timeless guide in Theravada Buddhism, offering a comprehensive framework for spiritual development. As practitioners navigate the intricacies of life, this path serves as a steady compass, illuminating the way towards enlightenment. By embodying the principles of Right Understanding, Right Intention, and the subsequent components, individuals can transform their lives and progress towards the ultimate goal – the cessation of suffering.