A important full moon poya day of Buddhists – ‘ Poson ‘ – By Malsha – eLanka
Poson Poya Day is an important religious holiday celebrated in Sri Lanka. It commemorates the arrival of Buddhism to the country in the 3rd century BC. Poson Poya is observed on the full moon day in the month of Poson (June), according to the lunar calendar followed in Sri Lanka.
On this day, Buddhists in Sri Lanka engage in various religious activities to honor the introduction of Buddhism to the country. One of the significant events associated with Poson Poya is the arrival of Arahat Mahinda, the son of Emperor Ashoka, to Sri Lanka. Arahat Mahinda is believed to have introduced Buddhism to the island by converting King Devanampiya Tissa and his subjects.
During Poson Poya, Buddhists visit temples and engage in religious rituals. Many people also participate in pilgrimages to important Buddhist sites such as Anuradhapura and Mihintale, where significant events related to the introduction of Buddhism took place. Devotees may engage in meditation, offer alms to monks, and listen to religious discourses. It is also common for families to gather and engage in acts of generosity, such as donating food and other necessities to the less fortunate.
Poson Poya Day holds great cultural and religious significance in Sri Lanka, and it is a time for Buddhists to reflect on the teachings of Lord Buddha and deepen their spiritual practice.
Poson Poya Day holds immense importance in the cultural and religious fabric of Sri Lanka. Here are some key reasons why Poson Poya Day is significant:
- Arrival of Buddhism: Poson Poya Day commemorates the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. According to historical accounts, Arahat Mahinda, the son of Emperor Ashoka of India, arrived in Sri Lanka during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BC. This event marked a crucial turning point in Sri Lankan history as Buddhism became the predominant religion in the country.
- Spreading of Buddhist Teachings: Arahat Mahinda is believed to have introduced the teachings of Lord Buddha to the people of Sri Lanka. Poson Poya Day reminds Buddhists of the role played by Arahat Mahinda in disseminating the Dhamma (Buddhist teachings) and establishing the foundation of Buddhism on the island.
- Significance of Anuradhapura: Poson Poya Day is closely associated with the ancient city of Anuradhapura, which was the capital of Sri Lanka for many centuries. Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the holiest cities for Buddhists. It was in Anuradhapura that King Devanampiya Tissa embraced Buddhism after meeting Arahat Mahinda. Many Buddhists undertake pilgrimages to Anuradhapura on Poson Poya Day to pay homage to the sacred sites associated with the arrival of Buddhism.
- Spiritual Reflection and Practice: Poson Poya Day provides an opportunity for Buddhists to engage in spiritual reflection and practice. Devotees visit temples, offer prayers, meditate, and listen to sermons to deepen their understanding of Buddhist principles. It is a time for self-reflection, cultivating virtues, and striving towards personal spiritual growth.
- Generosity and Almsgiving: Poson Poya Day emphasizes acts of generosity and compassion. Buddhists engage in acts of charity, donate food and other necessities to the needy, and engage in meritorious deeds. These acts of generosity and almsgiving are seen as a way to accumulate good karma and express compassion towards others.
Overall, Poson Poya Day holds immense significance as a day to commemorate the arrival of Buddhism, reflect on its teachings, engage in spiritual practice, and promote acts of generosity and compassion. It plays a crucial role in fostering the cultural and religious identity of Sri Lanka and serves as a reminder of the country’s deep-rooted Buddhist heritage.
