Celebrating the Anniversary of the Buddha's Birth and Enlightenment

Celebrating the Anniversary of the Buddha’s Birth and Enlightenment

May 25 & June 1-5, 2015

May 19th began the Tibetan month that includes the anniversary of Shakyamuni Buddha’s birth and enlightenment.

This month (which concludes on June 16) is an auspicious time to focus on Dharma practice, work, and study, taking advantage of the timeless power of enlightenment. It is also a time to refrain from negative actions that might harm oneself or others. Traditionally, Nyingma community members avoid any intoxicating substance and maintain a strict vegetarian diet during this Tibetan month.

You are welcome to join in these positive actions and to participate in special chanting ceremonies that the Nyingma Institute will be holding in May and June. These include chanting ceremonies on the anniversaries of the Buddha’s birth (May 25) and the Buddha’s enlightenment (June 2), as well as nightly chants on June 1 and June 3-5. All events are free and are held at the Nyingma Institute.

Birth of the Buddha Chanting Ceremony
Monday, May 25, 8-9 PM
We honor the anniversary of Shakyamuni Buddha’s birth with a special chant for blessing and healing.

Enlightenment of the Buddha Chanting Ceremony
Tuesday, June 2, 8-9:30 PM
The chant on this full-moon night will include periods of chanting interspersed with meditation.

Devotional Chant in Honor of the Buddha
(7-8 PM nightly, Monday, June 1 & Wednesday to Friday, June 3-5)
A special Tibetan chant in honor of the Buddha.

Schedule for the chants:

Monday, May 25: chanting ceremony , 8-9 PM (anniversary of the Birth of the Buddha)

Monday, June 1: devotional chant, 7-8 PM

Tuesday, June 2: chanting ceremony, 8-9:30 PM (anniversary of the Buddha’s enlightenment)

Wednesday, June 3: devotional chant, 7-8 PM

Thursday, June 4: devotional chant, 7-8 PM

Friday, June 5: devotional chant, 7-8 PM

For more information, please contact us at (510) 809-1000 or nyingma-institute@nyingma.org.