Abhidhamma Divas

Source: This post on Abhidhamma Divas has been created based on the article “Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to Attend the Celebrations of Abhidhamma Divas andRecognition of Pali as a Classical Language”  published in PIB on 16^th October 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, Abhidhamma Divas was celebrated on 17th October 2024 by Ministry of Culture in association with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).

About Abhidhamma Divas

1. Abhidhamma Divas, also known as Abhidhamma Day, is a significant Buddhist observance. It commemorates the Buddha’s descent from the Tāvatiṃsa Heaven after imparting Abhidhamma teachings.

2. The event signifies the Buddha’s return to the human world to share these advanced teachings with his disciples.

3. Abhidhamma Divas coincides with Pavāraņā Festival which signifies the end of the first Rainy Retreat.

Historical Significance:

1. According to tradition, after attaining enlightenment, the Buddha spent three months in the Tāvatiṃsa Heaven. He taught the Abhidhamma to his mother, Māyā, who had passed away and was reborn there.

2. This period coincides with the Buddhist Lent, known as Vassa, a time when monks stay in monasteries to meditate and study.

3. Abhidhamma Divas is celebrated on the full moon day of the seventh lunar month. It marks the end of the Vassa period and is observed with devotion across Theravāda Buddhist countries like: Myanmar, Thailand, Laos,  Cambodia and Sri Lanka.

4. Religious Activities: Devotees gather at temples for various religious practices: Offering alms to monks and nuns, participating in scripture recitation and listening to sermons on the Abhidhamma and engaging in meditation and reflecting on the Buddha’s teachings

5. Cultural and Spiritual Practices: The day is an opportunity for Buddhists to:

i) Deepen their understanding of the Buddha’s teachings, particularly the Abhidhamma, which focuses on Buddhist psychology and philosophy.

ii) Cultivate virtues of generosity, wisdom, and loving-kindness.

iii) Perform acts of charity, such as donating food, clothing, or money to monasteries, charitable organizations, and the needy.

Significance in Modern Times: Abhidhamma Divas encourages mindfulness, self-reflection, and spiritual growth. It reinforces the core values of Buddhism, including compassion and the pursuit of wisdom. The observance also highlights the importance of connecting with the teachings of the Buddha to lead a life of peace and purpose.

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