Second International Buddhist Scripture Recitation underway in Lumbini

Lumbini, Nov 3: Buddhist monks, nuns, scholars and practitioners from different countries have gathered in Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, for the Second International Buddhist Scripture Recitation Programme, which began last Sunday.

The seven-day event is being held at Pal Thubten Shedrub Ling Monastery, popularly known as the Thousand Golden Buddha Temple, under the guidance of renowned Buddhist spiritual master Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche.

Participants from different Buddhist traditions are collectively reciting the teachings of Buddha in several languages, including Pali, Sanskrit, Tibetan, Chinese, Vietnamese and English. According to the organizers, the programme aims to bring followers of different Buddhist traditions together through a shared spiritual practice while promoting the preservation, study and wider dissemination of Buddha’s teachings.

The participants are also offering collective prayers for world peace, compassion and the well-being of all living beings. The recitations are based on the Kangyur, a major collection of Buddhist scriptures in the Tibetan tradition.

It contains a wide range of texts covering Buddhist philosophy and teachings. For the English recitation, the organizers will use translated texts published by the 84000: Translating the Words of the Buddha, an international non-profit organization that translates Tibetan Buddhist scriptures into modern English and makes them accessible to readers worldwide.

The programme coincides with Lhabab Duchen, one of the most sacred festivals in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. According to Buddhist belief, the festival commemorates Buddha’s return to Earth after teaching his mother and other celestial beings in the heavenly realm.

Observed on the 22nd day of the ninth month of the Tibetan lunar calendar, Lhabab Duchen is regarded as one of the four major sacred occasions in Buddhism. Reciting scriptures, meditation, prayers, donations and other acts of charity are considered particularly significant on this day.

The participation of Buddhist followers from different countries and traditions in the programme has further highlighted Lumbini’s importance as an international centre of Buddhist faith and spirituality. The organizers believe the gathering will help spread Buddha’s universal messages of peace, compassion, goodwill and non-violence to people around the world. —