WESAK DAY

Wesak Day commemorates the three important events in the life of the Buddha - His Birth, Enlightenment and Passing Away. These events took place on the full moon day in the lunar month of Vesakha, which falls between april and May in the Gregorian calendar (the western calendar). Officially, the first full-moon in May is designated as Wesak Day in Malaysia. It is also known as Buddha Jayanti or the Birth of Buddha by Buddhists.

Wesak Observance

By knowing the Buddha's greatness and honourable personality, it is only befitting that the Sacred Wesak Day is celebrated mindfully. It should be made an occasion to learn, practise and understand Buddhism's lofty ideals, which highlight man's potential for the highest contentment, peace and happiness.

It will be more meaningful if the Wesak Observance is motivated by selfless and altruistic thoughts. Sincere and genuine acts of kindness and compassion for the world are the best ways to honour the Enlightened One.

Hence, we are encouraged to make the Buddha Jayanti a meaningful day, for the cultivation of amity and harmony, for the well-being and happiness of oneself and others.

Excerpts taken from the pamphlet with the title "The Significance of Wesak" published by Nalanda Institute of Malaysia.