Understanding Bodhi Day: History, Significance, and Celebration

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Bodhi Day, observed on January 20th, commemorates the enlightenment of Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha. This day marks the moment when he achieved Nirvana under a Bodhi tree. The celebration includes various Buddhist traditions like meditation, Dharma study, and acts of kindness. Learn about the history, significance, and customs associated with Bodhi Day.

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Bodhi Day January 20

Would you rather... Be the first person to explore a planet? Be the inventor of a drug that cures a deadly disease?

Understand the history of the holiday Learn what Bodhi Day is Objectives Identify how and why it is celebrated

What is Bodhi Day? It is marked as the day the Historic Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, achieved "enlightenment." It is celebrated on the 8th day of the 12th month of the lunar year, which changes from year to year. Lasts 30 days. Many celebrate on Dec. 8th every year.

The Story

The Story It is then that he went to rest under a Bodhi tree and vowed to stay there until he found what he waslooking for. He sat in meditation for days (ranging from 7 days to 49 years, depending on the differentbeliefs). On the8th day of the12th month of the lunar year,he awoke enlightened and he could "See". This realization became the 4 Noble Truths (Nirvana). He was now the Buddha, the Teacher.

How is it celebrated? Services and traditions vary among Buddhist sects. However, all such services commemorate the Buddha's achievement of Nirvana and what it means for Buddhism today. Services and traditions include, additional meditation, study of the Dharma (Buddhist teachings), chanting of Buddhist texts (sutras), or performing kind acts towards others. Some Buddhists celebrate witha traditional meal of tea, cakes, and readings. Many eat rice and milk the morning of Bodhi day to commemorate the first meal the Buddha ate after he was enlightened.