Vesak is therefore a joyous occasion to commemorate this remarkable Thrice Sacred Day as The Birth, The Enlightenment and The Passing Away of the Lord Buddha took place on the same day, at different ages.
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Dear Members and Devotees,
Why do we grow old? Become ill? Pass away?
These questions were pondered by the Lord Buddha 2,500 years ago. A great human being who never claimed to be God. But, as acknowledged worldwide by history to be a trainer of all men, he taught that only by PURIFYING THE MIND through SELF-PRACTICE , one and all can attain Enlightenment. And that hatred never ceases with hatred, but only by loving kindness, Metta.
Life Of The Lord Buddha
Born into the royal Sakya family in 623 B.C., the Lord Buddha made a mindful choice at the age of 29 to depart from a life of the finest luxury in order to embark on a profound solo journey in search of a compassionate solution to break and end the vicious circle of universal suffering of illness, old age and death. At the age of 35, whilst seated in meditation under the Bodhi Tree ( Tree Of Wisdom ), Gotama attained enlightenment, after which he was known as the SAMMA SAMBUDDHA, 'THE FULLY ENLIGHTENED ONE' on VESAK full moon day. For 45 years thereafter, he preached the Dhamma ( True Nature Of Existence ) and passed away at the age of 80, another full moon day.
| VESAK : Dana To 100 Elderly
Folks
Vesak is therefore a joyous occasion to commemorate this remarkable Thrice Sacred Day as The Birth, The Enlightenment and The Passing Away of the Lord Buddha took place on the same day, at different ages. |
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We, at The Buddhist Publication Society ( BPS ), have chosen an unique theme this year. The focus is aimed at highlighting one of the Lord Buddha's original teachings: "DANAN SAGGASSA SOPANAN" ( Giving Is The Ladder To The Heavenly Life And It Paves The Path To Nibbana). Or simply, DANA: Giving What One Can Afford To Those In Need.
To demonstrate by example, BPS has specially invited 100 elderly folks from the Kreta Ayer Senior Activity Centre for a vegetarian lunch. By offering them our sincere compassion and time, we are according them due respect for their roles in society. Also, through this practice, it is equal to respecting our own parents for their sacrifices in our upbringing, many of whom are aged, some are living and others who had departed. And, eventually, to pay due respect to ourselves for each of us will surely grow old one day.
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BPS invites you to witness this holy occasion on 26th of May 2002, Sunday at 10am-2pm at Blk 31, Link Building, Balam Road. And to share the bountiful merits of this noble act for your own benefit in this lifetime and thereafter. Your participation will safeguard your journey in Samsara ( Circle Of Birth And Death ) and those of your loved ones. We have arranged a special programme for all. Please request and check the programme ( Tel: 6743 4510 ) for further details.
Our Guest-Of-Honour is Mr. Othman Haron Eusofe, Mayor of South East CDC, MP for Marine Parade GRC who has kindly agreed to grace the occasion.
Lotus candles, joss sticks and flowers for offering to the Buddha would be freely available. Traditionally, the Bathing of the Prince Siddhartha will be the spiritual highlight of the event. It is a devotional practice which signifies the cleansing of oneself from all unwholesomeness.
In addition, BPS would officially launch their publication of a Buddhist classic book, The Buddhist's Companion, by Venerable Ashin Thittila ( 1896 - 1997 ), a world renowned and yet humble Burmese scholar and missionary.
Serving of vegetarian food to members and devotees would be arranged. Special Vesak Blessings from the Sangha ( Buddhist Monks ), holy water and holy strings would be available to one and all from 6.00am-7.00pm.
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May you not miss this meritorious opportunity !!! |
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