Dharma Drum Mountain Sydney - Bathing of the Buddha Celebration: A Joyful Celebration of Gratitude

On May 19, 2024, Dharma Drum Mountain Sydney hosted the "Celebrating Buddha's Birthday ~ Gratitude, Buddha Bathing, and Prayers" event in a warm and joyous atmosphere. This event attracted many families who came together to celebrate Buddha's birthday and expressed their respect and gratitude through the Buddha Bathing Ceremony.

The event began with the host warmly welcoming all the families present and emphasising the significance of the day. The meaning of Buddha's Birthday and the Buddha Bathing Festival was first introduced, explaining their relationship with Vesak Day. Vesak is an important festival celebrating Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and nirvana, while the Buddha bathing ceremony is a traditional activity expressing respect and gratitude to Buddha.

The event featured a variety of activities, including stories of Buddha's life, explanations of the Buddha Bathing Festival, and ways to celebrate Buddha's birthday. Additionally, an animated film "Praise and Admiration" was screened. The host guided participating parents and children through interactive activities, asking questions to stimulate their thinking and understanding. Everyone was uplifted by the enthusiastic and inclusive atmosphere, enjoying the joyful parent-child interactions.


The most solemn and meaningful part of the ceremony was the Bathing the Buddha ritual. DDM Sydney provided special explanations in Pinyin and English for the entire ceremony and harmonious and peaceful chanting filled the air. As devotees chanted the name "Shakyamuni Buddha," they each took turns bathing the Buddha, making a wish each time: the first to refrain from evil, the second to do good, and the third to keep their minds pure. This ritual not only symbolised respect for Buddha but also the purification of one's behaviour and mind. Everyone reverently chanted the "Verse of Praise to the Buddha" and the "Verse of Dedication," praying for sentient beings to be free from sufferings and attain wisdom, following the Bodhisattva path.

The meditation session was also a highlight of the event. Participants expressed that they were deeply engaged and enjoyed the guided meditation, hoping for more opportunities in the future to learn how to stay clear-minded during times of mental turmoil and practical Buddhist teachings on refraining from evil and doing good.



This event was especially suitable for all ages. Parents shared that their children were very engaged and learned many concepts about mental purification during the event. The event concluded with gratitude to volunteers for their support, making the ceremony a memorable experience. It provided important Buddhist knowledge and fostered a sense of community care and support.

In conclusion, everyone expressed gratitude to all the volunteers and participants for their active involvement and enthusiastic support, wishing that this Buddha bathing ceremony brought joyful moments and planted the seeds of Buddhist wisdom. Regardless of external changes, with the Dharma, the mind can remain at peace and adapt to circumstances with ease.





Text & Photos: Dharma Drum Mountain Sydney