The Deep Spiritual Meaning Behind Vesak Day Observances

Jakarta, VIVA – Vesak Day, also known as Buddha Day, holds deep spiritual significance for Buddhists around the world.

This sacred day commemorates not just one, but three major events in the life of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism: his birth, enlightenment, and passing (parinibbana).

All three are believed to have occurred on the full moon of the Vesakha month in the Buddhist calendar, which usually falls in April or May in the Gregorian calendar.

A Historical Overview

The celebration of Vesak traces back to ancient times in India, where it was observed in honor of Gautama Buddha's teachings.

The formal recognition of Vesak as an international observance came in 1999, when the United Nations General Assembly acknowledged it as the most sacred day to millions of Buddhists worldwide.

Since then, Vesak has been celebrated globally, especially in countries with significant Buddhist populations, such as Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, and Nepal.

In Indonesia, Vesak Day is marked by grand ceremonies, especially at Borobudur Temple in Central Java.

Thousands of monks and devotees gather for prayers, candle-lit processions, and the symbolic release of lanterns, expressing hopes for peace and enlightenment.

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Potret Hari Raya Waisak tahun 2022 di Candi Borobudur

Photo :

• Instagram @borobudurpark

1. Birth of Siddhartha Gautama

Prince Siddhartha was born in Lumbini, in present-day Nepal, around the 6th century BCE. His birth symbolized hope and compassion, with many believing that he was destined to bring spiritual liberation to humankind.

2. Enlightenment

At the age of 35, after years of meditation and ascetic practices, Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India. He became the Buddha—"The Enlightened One"—and began teaching the path to liberation from suffering.

3. Parinibbana (Passing Away)

At the age of 80, the Buddha passed away in Kushinagar, India. His passing is not seen as an end but a final liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara).

Vesak Day is not only a celebration but also a moment of reflection. Buddhists take this time to practice meditation, give alms, and perform acts of kindness.

It serves as a reminder of the Buddha’s core teachings: compassion, mindfulness, and the pursuit of inner peace.

As Vesak continues to be celebrated across the globe, it unites people in a shared commitment to peace, tolerance, and spiritual awakening—values that transcend religion and culture.

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In Indonesia, Vesak Day is marked by grand ceremonies, especially at Borobudur Temple in Central Java.