Buddhists Celebrate Vesak in Bali and Central Java
Jakarta. Thousands of Buddhists celebrated Vesak in several parts of Indonesia on Thursday (11/05).
People gathered at Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java, to mark the celebration with the ringing of a bell and sprinkling of holy water.
Tadisa Paramita Mahasthavira, a Buddhist monk, said the celebration is not merely a ritual to ask for blessings.
"Do not ignore the values of Buddha. The great master only taught and gave enlightenment, but its developments and practices depend on each individual. We have to struggle wholeheartedly to reach true enlightenment and meaning," Tadisa said.
Another monk, Wongsin Labhiko, said life is not merely about wishes, and that time will not suffice for people's needs.
He encouraged devotees to increase their level of enlightenment by maintaining good deeds and conduct, in accordance with the teachings of Buddha Gautama.
"Everything changes, everything moves. Turn crises into opportunities and do not be afraid if you experience crises or ordeals. In ordeals, there are open opportunities for all of you," Wongsin said.
The celebration at Borobudur Temple ended with monks performing the Pradaksina ritual by circling the temple three times clockwise.
Balinese Celebrate Waisak
Hundreds of Buddhists also gathered at Giri Manggala Vihara in Bali's Buleleng district to celebrate Vesak as part of the island's culture and traditions.
"The acculturation of cultures in our village has been firmly established, and there are no differences between the people of one religion and another. Everyone loves and cares for the other," said Ketut Widiasa, the head of Giri Manggala Vihara.
He said the acculturation has taken place over decades and that there are no gaps or limitations between Hindu and Buddha congregations in the village. Everything is united within the culture and traditions of Bali.
The Hindu community assisted Buddhists by creating Vesak offerings.
Residents also helped to clean up the vihara, or monastery, while traditional security guards, known as pecalang, maintained order.
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