Malaysia will be celebrating Vesak Day 2024 on May 22nd. Vesak Day/Wesak Day or Buddha Day, is revered as one of the most sacred occasions for Buddhists globally, honors the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha. In Malaysia, Vesak Day is recognized as a public holiday. Vesak, stands as a significant Buddhist festival, commemorating the birth of Buddha and, for many followers, acknowledging his enlightenment—the moment he grasped the essence of existence. It serves as a period for contemplating Buddha's teachings and the essence of Buddhist principles.
Vesak, also referred to as Buddha Jayanti, Buddha Purnima, and Buddha Day, is a religious observance observed by Buddhists and some Hindus. It marks the significant milestones of Siddhartha Gautama, commonly known as Buddha, including his birth, enlightenment, and passing. According to tradition, these pivotal events are believed to have occurred on the same day throughout his life. Typically falling on the first full moon in May as per the lunar calendar, Vesak's celebration dates may vary among different Buddhist traditions due to the diversity of cultural practices within the religion.
Credit to The Okhlahoman website
A distinctive and widely observed ritual during Vesak/Buddha Day involves the ceremonial "bathing" of the Buddha. Devotees gather around adorned basins or pools adorned with flower garlands, centered around a small elevated statue depicting the young Siddhartha. Using ladles, water is scooped from the basin and gently poured over the statue, symbolizing the legend of the infant prince being bathed by the waters of nine dragons shortly after his birth
Credit to Malaysia Kini website
Releasing caged birds and animals on Vesak Day is a symbolic act of compassion and liberation inspired by Buddhist teachings. It is believed that by freeing captive animals, individuals generate positive karma and express their commitment to non-violence and respect for all living beings. This practice reflects the Buddhist principle of "ahimsa," or non-harming, and serves as a reminder of the importance of kindness and empathy towards all creatures. Additionally, releasing animals is seen as a way to cultivate merit and contribute to the well-being of the environment.
Credit to Wikipedia website
Having vegetarian meals on Vesak Day or Buddha Day carries significant meaning in Buddhist tradition. By abstaining from meat consumption, individuals express compassion towards all sentient beings and uphold the principle of non-violence central to Buddhist teachings. This practice reflects a desire to minimize harm to animals and promotes purity and simplicity in dietary choices. Choosing vegetarian options on Vesak Day is a way for Buddhists to honor their spiritual beliefs, observe moral precepts, and deepen their connection to the teachings of the Buddha.
There are many other temples throughout Malaysia that believers flock to visit on Vesak Day. Here are five of the most popular ones:-
The Buddhist Maha Vihara, also known as the Brickfields Buddhist Temple, was established in Malaysia in 1894 by the Sinhalese community. Since the 1890s, the Vihara has been organizing the Buddha Day procession, which is the oldest and largest religious procession in the country. The parade typically follows the same route each year, passing through Jalan Raja Chulan, Jalan Sultan Ismail, and Jalan Bukit Bintang before returning to Brickfields.
Wat Chetawan, also known as the Chetawan Buddhist Temple, is a renowned Thai Buddhist temple complex located in Petaling Jaya. Constructed in 1957, the temple was consecrated by the former King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand. Utilizing a workforce comprising local builders and skilled craftsmen from Thailand, the main shrine hall, or Vihara (Viharn), was completely finished in 1962.
Ling Sen Tong stands as a grand Taoist cave temple situated at the base of a limestone hill in Ipoh. Its name, "Rock of Heavenly Spirits," holds significance. The primary temple is embellished with a multitude of statues depicting various deities, animals, and characters from Chinese folklore. The garden preceding it is adorned with vibrant statues portraying figures from Chinese mythology.
Ching San Yen Temple, also known as Chin San Yan Temple or Green Hill Temple, is a Buddhist temple situated on a 2.5-acre hill site approximately 120 feet above sea level, overlooking the Sarawak River delta in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. The temple has been present on the hill for around 200 years, initially starting as a modest structure. It was constructed by Chinese immigrants as an expression of deep gratitude to Buddha Bodhisattvas and Mazu (Goddess of the Seas) for their guidance, protection, and blessings during their perilous journey.
Constructed in 1980, the primary temple marked the inception of the first Buddhist temple in Sabah. Initially comprising a Main Gate, Dah Xiong Main Prayer Hall, and Che Sze Lim Temple, the site has undergone significant expansion over the years. Presently, it features a three-story building named Dah Guan Lou, a library, a memorial area for the founder and ancestral name plates and urns. In 1990, the addition of Yuan Ming Hall and a guest house enhanced the temple's facilities. Furthermore, in 2006, a three-story kindergarten with 15 classrooms capable of accommodating 200 students was inaugurated.
On this special occasion, Ultech Engineering extends the warmest wishes to all Buddhist in Malaysia and around the world. May this Vesak Day bring you peace, joy, and spiritual fulfillment as you commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha. Let us strive to cultivate compassion, wisdom, and kindness in our hearts. May the light of Vesak illuminate your path and guide you towards greater happiness and inner peace.
Vesak Day is not just a celebration, it is a profound reminder of the values that guide us towards becoming better individuals. Rooted in the teachings of Buddha, Vesak urges us to embrace goodness and compassion in our lives. It's a time to reflect on the importance of kindness towards others, to cultivate empathy and understanding, and to strive for a world filled with love and harmony. As we commemorate Vesak Day, let us be inspired to embody these timeless virtues and make a positive difference in the world around us.
