Get to know Malaysia - Wesak Day festival
Published by Mel on Wednesday, November 22, 2006 at 11:04 AMOn the morning of tis day, Buddhist devotees will gather in temples throughout Malaysia, wearing simple clothing with no make-up or jewellery. Drums are beaten to announce the arrival of this day, and devotees gather to release doves and to offer prayers. Alms are given to monks and free meals to the needy. Devotees gathered in temples and halls would read the holy scriptures and listen to the monks recite ancient stories of Buddha. Candles are lit and prayers are offered.
Monks offering prayers and beating drums
When u enter the main hall where devotees gather, the first thing you will probably notice is the "stage" where statues of Buddha are placed and a couple of monks would be praying (chanting). Their sweet voices fill the air, setting the prayerful mood for the place.
Sprinkling water onto the statue of Buddha
Little fountains were also set up around the hall where devotees would take turns to sprinkle some water onto a miniature statue of Buddha and offer prayers. I suppose this is quite similar to the Veneration of the cross during Easter celebrations. I also noticed some devotees lighting candles before offering some prayers. I asked my companion what this ritual means and was told that it represents a continuing journey towards enlightenment, whereby the heart was "dark" before and now a light shines inside.
Lighting Candles
Placing the lit candle onto a tower of candles!
In another area, a little stream was created and channeled to circle some statues of honourable figures in history. Devotees walk slowly through the little stream; some chanting, and others in silence. The children, of course, were happily playing...I supposed it's like a mini Disneyland for them, with the fountains and streams and all....
Walking on stones through a stream in prayer
So if you ever have a chance to visit Malaysia during Wesak day, be sure to drop by the temples and Chinese halls and you will find a lot to learn!
