Binara Poya Day – Full Moon day in September

September is a special month in the Buddhist calendar as it marks the beginning of the second month in the Theravada calendar – the Binara month. This month also includes one of the most important and sacred days for Buddhists – Binara Poya Day. This full moon day falls on the 15th day of the Binara month, which usually falls in the month of September. On this day, Buddhists all around the world celebrate the life and teachings of Lord Buddha, who is believed to have attained enlightenment on the same day many centuries ago.

Binara Poya Day is a time for reflection and for gaining a deeper understanding of the Dharma, the teachings of Buddha.

On this day, Buddhist temples and shrines are decorated with colorful lights, lanterns, and traditional flags called ‘danthon’ in preparation for the celebrations.

The day begins early for devotees, who wake up before dawn to take part in religious observances.

Devotees engage in meditation, chanting, and offering of food to Buddhist monks as a means of gaining merit and to honor the teachings of Buddha.

The day is also marked by acts of generosity and kindness, as Buddhists are encouraged to engage in acts of charity and to help those in need.

One of the most iconic traditions of Binara Poya Day is the lighting of ‘Pirith’ or the ‘Sutra’ chanting ceremony, where Buddhist monks chant sacred verses and offer blessings for the wellbeing of the devotees.

The full moon also holds symbolic significance in Buddhism, as it represents the illumination of wisdom and the journey towards enlightenment.

Binara Poya Day is not only a time for spiritual practice but also a time for connecting with family and loved ones.

Families gather to enjoy special meals and engage in wholesome activities such as listening to Buddhist discourses and practicing the ‘Dana’ or ‘giving’ ritual.

It is believed that on Binara Poya Day, the cosmic energy is highly conducive for attaining inner peace and enlightenment, making it an auspicious day for one’s spiritual practice.

The celebrations on Binara Poya Day are not limited to Sri Lanka, where Buddhism has been practiced for over 2500 years.

In countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos, where Theravada Buddhism is the predominant religion, this day is also celebrated with great fervor and devotion.

The teachings of Buddha have transcended time and borders, making Binara Poya Day a day of unity, compassion, and peace.

As we celebrate Binara Poya Day, let us also reflect on the teachings of Buddha and strive towards leading a more mindful, compassionate, and peaceful life.

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