Today marks Esala Full Moon Poya Day

The Esala Full Moon Poya falls today (July 29), marking one of the most significant days in the Buddhist calendar.

Esala Poya commemorates several key events in Buddhist history.

According to Buddhist tradition, the conception of Prince Siddhartha in Queen Mahamaya’s womb took place after contemplating the 05 Great Observations (Pasmaha Belum) on an Esala Full Moon Poya Day.

The day also marks Prince Siddhartha’s renunciation of royal life in search of liberation from suffering, while the birth of Prince Rahula is also traditionally associated with Esala Poya.

It was on an Esala Full Moon Poya Day that the Buddha delivered his first sermon, the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, setting the Wheel of Dhamma in motion.

Buddhist tradition also holds that the Buddha later ascended to Thusitha Heaven to preach to his mother, exemplifying filial gratitude.

In Sri Lanka, Esala Poya is especially significant as it marks the first local ordination of a Sri Lankan – Prince Arittha and 50 others – by Arahant Mahinda following the introduction of Buddhism to the island.

The arrival of Prince Dantha and Princess Hemamala with the Sacred Tooth Relic is also traditionally associated with this day.

Esala Poya further marks the beginning of the annual ‘Vas’ (rains retreat) observed by Buddhist monks, which commences on the day following the Poya.

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