A program to ordain 500 individuals as Samaneras (temporary monks) began today at the Buddha’s birthplace, Lumbini. The participants were given yellow robes by Buddhist monks at the Maya Devi Temple complex.
The grand religious event is being organized through a collaborative effort involving the All Nepal Monk Federation, the Thai Monk Federation, and the Lumbini Development Trust. These prominent organizations have come together with a shared vision of promoting spiritual and cultural harmony through this significant gathering.
Additionally, the event is receiving support and cooperation from various institutions, including religious, cultural, and governmental bodies. Their collective involvement ensures the smooth execution of the ceremony, fostering a deeper connection among Buddhist communities and highlighting Nepal’s rich spiritual heritage with Samaneras.
The ordination ceremony was attended by various Buddhist leaders, including Sanghanayak Bodhisena Mahasthavir and representatives from Thailand. The Thai Ambassador to Nepal, Suwapong Sirisorn, emphasized the importance of Buddha’s teachings for peace and expressed Thailand’s readiness to continue supporting Lumbini’s development.
The program is designed to integrate Buddha’s teachings into everyday life, even for a limited period. Participants are encouraged to practice mindfulness and discipline by adhering to Buddhist principles. This initiative provides an opportunity for individuals to immerse themselves in spiritual practices and reflect on the wisdom of Buddha’s teachings.
As part of the program, participants will strictly follow Buddhist rules, including the Ten Precepts, until Chaitra 3. These precepts serve as ethical guidelines that promote a harmonious and disciplined way of living. The ordination process emphasizes the importance of self-restraint, compassion, and wisdom, allowing individuals to experience a monastic lifestyle temporarily.
This ordination program has been conducted annually since 2011 with the goal of spreading Buddha’s teachings worldwide. It incorporates essential Buddhist practices such as daily meditation sessions and teachings on the Five Precepts, Eight Precepts, and Vinaya Pitaka. Through these activities, participants gain deeper insights into Buddhist philosophy while cultivating inner peace and mindfulness.
The annual ordination ceremony has been widely recognized for its significant role in promoting Buddha’s teachings and strengthening the essence of Buddhism. This sacred event serves as a platform to inspire spiritual growth among devotees while preserving Buddhist traditions. Many followers and scholars have praised the initiative for fostering a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy and encouraging a life of mindfulness and compassion.
The program features a series of meaningful activities designed to enhance the spiritual experience of participants. One of the highlights includes the alms-giving ritual, where monks and devotees come together in a gesture of generosity and gratitude. Additionally, a lamp-lighting ceremony is performed, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and the enlightenment of wisdom. These rituals not only hold religious significance but also create an atmosphere of serenity and devotion, drawing in participants from various backgrounds.
As part of the event, certificates are distributed to acknowledge the dedication and commitment of individuals who have actively participated in the ordination. This formal recognition serves as motivation for continued practice and adherence to Buddhist values. The ceremony as a whole reinforces the importance of self-discipline, ethical conduct, and spiritual progress, making it an essential gathering for those devoted to the teachings of the Buddha and Samaneras.
