Asalha Puja: Explanation and Study Guide

Explanation:

Asalha Puja, also known as Asalha Bucha, is an important Buddhist festival that commemorates the Buddha's first sermon to his five disciples. This event, known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta or the "Turning of the Wheel of Dharma," took place at Deer Park in Isipatana, near Varanasi in present-day India. The sermon is considered the formal beginning of the Buddha's teaching, as it marked the first time he expounded the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.

Asalha Puja is observed on the full moon day of the eighth lunar month, which usually falls in July. It is a time for Buddhists to engage in acts of merit-making, such as making offerings at temples, listening to sermons, and observing the Five Precepts. Many Buddhists also participate in candlelit processions around the main shrine at temples on this day.

Study Guide:

1. What is the significance of Asalha Puja?

Asalha Puja commemorates the Buddha's first sermon and the formal beginning of his teachings on the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.

2. When is Asalha Puja observed?

Asalha Puja is observed on the full moon day of the eighth lunar month, which usually falls in July.

3. How do Buddhists observe Asalha Puja?

Buddhists observe Asalha Puja by engaging in acts of merit-making, such as making offerings at temples, listening to sermons, and observing the Five Precepts. Many also participate in candlelit processions around the main shrine at temples.