DocWard Posted December 8, 2018 Share Posted December 8, 2018 Since Buddhism has come up a time or two, I decided to go ahead and mention that today is observed by a number of Buddhist sects as Bodhi Day, or "Rohatsu" in Japanese, the 8th Day of the 12th Month. Zen Buddhists in particular, as well as many Western Buddhists, observe and celebrate on this day, while for those who follow a lunar calendar, the day shifts over time. The Chinese will observe Bodhi Day on the 13th of January, for example. Some sects observe another day, "Vesak" which celebrates the birth, enlightenment and passing to Nirvana of the Buddha. Given that it fits with the holiday season, I choose Rohatsu. At any rate, Bodhi Day celebrates the enlightenment of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha. It can be celebrated in numerous ways. Some of which will seem quite familiar. Those who have a ficus tree of the type Ficus religiosa, which is the type of tree (the 'Bodhi Tree') Siddhartha sat under as he gained enlightenment, may choose to light it, or add three crystals representing the three jewels of Buddhism. Candles are sometimes lit for the 30 days leading up to Bodhi Day. Some participate in intense meditation. As for myself, I'm not quite "traditional" in most things I do. This day is no different. We have a small live spruce this year that is lighted for Christmas, but no ficus religiosa. I will note the day, and make mention of it to those I know who are or may be interested. I will meditate, of course, and will try to be more mindful of those things I do. I may include rice and milk as part of one of my meals. I will include my friends here in my meditations, and close with a traditional Buddhist wish. May the peace of the Buddha be upon you. Have a wonderful day, everyone! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Subdeacon Joe Posted December 8, 2018 Share Posted December 8, 2018 Happy feast day, may you be blessed with peace and fulfillment. Thanks for the lesson, too. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Charlie Harley, #14153 Posted December 8, 2018 Share Posted December 8, 2018 Your heartfelt blessing are gratefully accepted, Doc. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Allie Mo, SASS No. 25217 Posted December 8, 2018 Share Posted December 8, 2018 Thank you for the well wishes. You are a good man! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Calamity Kris Posted December 8, 2018 Share Posted December 8, 2018 Thank you for the blessings. Wishes to you also for much peace. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Subdeacon Joe Posted December 8, 2018 Share Posted December 8, 2018 Gotta tell ya, at first I thought you had misspelled the name of this town: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Capt. R. Hugh Kidnme Posted December 8, 2018 Share Posted December 8, 2018 Doc, Thanks for the insight. May you too receive serenity and enlightenment in your meditations. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sedalia Dave Posted December 9, 2018 Share Posted December 9, 2018 Doc May you be peaceful and at ease. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DocWard Posted December 9, 2018 Author Share Posted December 9, 2018 Thank you all for the kind replies. They truly mean more to me than I can express. I've had a pleasant day, and where possible, I've avoided multi-tasking and tried to be mindful and in the present. Often easier said than done, but today I made that effort. Again, Happy Bodhi Day, everyone. In a couple of weeks, I look forward to wishing you all a Merry Christmas! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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