Abhidhamma Day marked at Shwedagon Pagoda and throughout Yangon Region

 

Yesterday signified the full moon of Thadingyut in the year 1386 ME, a landmark day known as Abhidhamma Day. The atmosphere was particularly vibrant as devotees gathered at the Shwedagon Pagoda and other prominent pagodas and shrines across Yangon Region to participate in religious activities.

The Shwedagon Pagoda board of trustees oversaw the unique offerings and ceremonies, including a large food offering ceremony, the Abhidhamma Day celebrations, and various Dhamma readings. These events began early in the morning with offerings of food, flowers, and water to the sacred images by committee members, religious groups, and staff.

Subsequently, various participants, including committee members and volunteers, engaged in question-and-answer sessions regarding Abhidhamma, recited Dhamma scriptures and shared merits during the ceremonies dedicated to the Buddha.

Following this, guests from various Buddhist educational institutions offered their respects and teachings. Members of the Shwedagon Pagoda Board of Trustees announced the schedule for the day, inviting attendees to contribute offerings.

In the evening, as the celebrations continued, offerings of water, soft drinks, and snacks were shared among the faithful, who filled the areas around the pagoda. At night, committee members and attendees lit 11,000 oil lamps in deep reverence around the pagoda.

Similar religious events were held at the Maha Wizaya Pagoda and other various edifices, including the Gandakuti Chamber, which also hosted Abhidhamma celebrations and shared blessings among attendees. Across Yangon, devotees actively participated in sacred observances, offering flowers and soft drinks and lighting lamps their homes and along the streets. Many engaged in good deeds, showing respects to older people, teachers, and ancestors, and participated in various religious observances, highlighting the significance of this special day. — Zaw Min Latt (MNA)/TMT