Poson Poya, also known as the full moon day of June, holds significant religious importance for Sri Lankans. This day commemorates the arrival of Ven. Mahinda Arahan to the island, a crucial event in the propagation of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
Historical accounts indicate that Ven. Mahinda Arahan thera’s journey to Sri Lanka was facilitated by the relationship between King Devanampitissa and Emperor Asoka of India. Ven. Mahinda Thera, a disciple of Dhammaraja the Buddha, approached King Devanampiyatissa with compassion and a message of eternal peace and happiness. He said, “Dear King, we are from India. We are disciples of Dhammaraja the Buddha. We have come to you out of compassion. What could be more compassionate than teaching the path to eternal peace and happiness?”
This encounter marked the inception of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and the establishment of a profound religious and cultural bond between the two nations. Ven. Mahinda Thera’s teachings spread throughout the island, influencing successive generations of Sri Lankans and shaping the religious landscape of the country.
Spiritual growth
For Sri Lankans, Poson Poya holds special significance as it serves as a day of introspection, meditation and spiritual growth. It reminds us of the importance of embodying the teachings of the Buddha, which emphasise compassion, peace and enlightenment.
The Dhamma teachings of the Buddha encompass the principles and doctrines he imparted during his lifetime to aid people in attaining enlightenment and liberation from suffering. Central to the Dhamma teachings are the Four Noble Truths, elucidating the nature of suffering, its origins, the possibility of its cessation, and the path to its cessation. Another fundamental teaching is the Eightfold Path, delineating the ethical and mental practices conducive to the cessation of suffering and the attainment of enlightenment. Overall, the Dhamma teachings underscore the significance of mindfulness, ethical conduct and wisdom in leading a purposeful and gratifying life.
Poson holds profound significance for Sri Lankans as it marks the introduction of Buddhism to the island by Ven. Mahinda Thera, the son of the esteemed Indian Emperor Ashoka. This event played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and societal norms of Sri Lanka, fostering values such as compassion, non-violence and ethical behaviour, which contributed to the creation of a harmonious and peaceful society.
A seminal event
The introduction of Buddhism also had a substantial impact on the country’s development, as evidenced by archaeological findings and historical records. Sri Lanka boasted a well-developed healthcare system, education system, agriculture, irrigation systems and industries. The political leaders of the time played a crucial role in upholding the country’s integrity and honesty, fostering a stable economy and ensuring the citizens’ access to essential resources for a fulfilling life.
In essence, Poson is not merely a religious observance for Sri Lankans but also a commemoration of the nation’s rich cultural heritage and prosperous history. It serves as a time for reflection on the teachings of Buddhism and the values that have shaped the country for centuries. On this auspicious week, let us heed the message of Ven. Mahinda Arahanth Thera and strive to cultivate compassion and peace in our hearts and interactions with others. May the spirit of Poson Poya inspire us to tread the path of enlightenment and spread love and kindness to all beings.
The writer is Co- Abbot, Bhavana Society, West Verginia, USA.
