The spontaneous and profound impact of the Buddha’s teachings
Thailand is observing Māgha Pūjā, also known as Sangha Day an important Buddhist festivals that extends across many countries and cultures in South and Southeast Asia, including in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka.
The festival, which celebrates the creation the Buddhist community, takes place on the full moon day of the third lunar month, falling around the last week of February or in early March.
To celebrate Māgha Pūjā, Thailand’s Ministry of Culture has enshrined sacred Buddhist relics, including those of Sariputra and Maudgalyayana, in a shrine at Sanam Luang, Bangkok.
Māgha Pūjā commemorates a pivotal event in the Buddha’s life at Veluvana Bamboo Grove in modern-day Bihar, India.
Around 10 months after his enlightenment, 1,250 individuals spontaneously gathered before him.
He ordained them as monks and they all attained arhatship, a state of enlightenment.
The Buddha then delivered special teachings known as ovada patimokkha, outlining the fundamental principles of his teachings.
This event symbolizes the spontaneous and profound impact of the Buddha’s teachings, as well as the transformative potential inherent in his guidance.
Māgha Pūjā serves as a reminder of these teachings and their enduring significance in the lives of Buddhists worldwide.
