ON the auspicious Waso Full Moon Day (Dhammacak­ka Day), Buddhist devotees across various states and re­gions peacefully visited pago­das, stupas and monasteries to perform meritorious deeds.

The day marks several sa­cred milestones in Buddhism: the Buddha’s first sermon – the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, the emergence of the Dhamma Jewel and Sangha Jewel, the beginning of mo­nastic ordination through the words “Ehi Bhikkhu”, and the transition of individuals from the mundane path to the noble path. As such, the Waso Full Moon Day is revered for its profound spiritual significance.

To honour the occasion, Buddhist communities across the country offered Waso robes and seasonal flowers, observed the Uposatha precepts, recited protective suttas and teach­ings, and made charitable do­nations. These merit-making activities were carried out at prominent religious sites, in­cluding the Maravijaya Buddha Image in Nay Pyi Taw, Shwed­agon Pagoda in Yangon, Maha Muni Pagoda in Mandalay, and numerous pagodas and mon­asteries in other regions and states. The monks, nuns, and laypeople gathered peacefully to engage in prayer and re­flection.

Public parks and recre­ational areas in towns and cities across the nation also saw large crowds of visitors enjoying moments of relaxa­tion during the public holiday. — MNA/KZL