Esala Full Moon Poya Day in Sri Lanka

Esala Full Moon Poya Day is one of the most significant days in the Buddhist calendar in Sri Lanka. It occurs in the month of Esala (July or August), which is believed to be the month when the Buddha delivered his first sermon and set in motion the Wheel of Dharma after attaining Enlightenment.

History:

• First Sermon: The day marks the Buddha's first teaching at the Deer Park in Sarnath, India, to his five former companions. This event is known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta.
• Beginning of Bhikkhu Sangha: It also commemorates the establishment of the Buddhist monastic community or Sangha with those five ascetics becoming the first monks.
• Other Events: In addition to these key moments, other historical events such as Buddha's conception, renunciation, and the Great Miracle at Sravasti are also traditionally associated with this month.

Traditions:

• Religious Observances: Devotees observe Sil (practicing morality by following precepts), visit temples for prayers, offer alms to monks, and participate in various religious activities like meditation and Dharma talks.
• Perahera Festivals: The most notable celebration associated with Esala Poya is the Esala Perahera held in Kandy, a grand festival involving dancers, drummers, and elephants adorned with lavish garments. It's a cultural spectacle that pays homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha housed in Kandy's Temple of the Tooth.

Activities on Esala Full Moon Poya Day:

1. Attending Temples: Buddhists flock to temples for worship and listen to sermons recollecting Buddha’s teachings.
2. Offering Dana: People give food and other necessities to monks and participate in communal meals at temples.
3. Engaging in Merit-making Activities: Buddhists engage in acts that are considered meritorious such as releasing animals or donating to charitable causes.
4. Practicing Meditation: Many use this day for introspection and meditation, focusing on spiritual growth.
5. Observing Uposatha: Laypeople may observe Uposatha by taking Eight Precepts which include abstaining from entertainment and luxurious comforts for a day.

Esala Full Moon Poya Day thus combines religious devotion with cultural festivities, reflecting both spiritual reverence and national heritage.