Leaders and devotees gathered in the morning to pay respect to our late spiritual adviser, Venerable K Sri Dhammananda.

On Sunday 13 July, all learning divisions of Nalanda- including Dhamma School juniors, teenagers, youths, parents, and adults, gathered with joy and reverence to commemorate Dhammacakka Day, marking the occasion when the Buddha first expounded the Dhamma to His five disciples in Isipatana over 2,600 years ago.

The observance began with the recitation of the Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta, led by Bro. Ajita Lim.  The congregation chanted the discourse with devotion and vigour, recollecting the Buddha’s profound teachings – the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.

The congregation recited Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta in high spirit, led by Bro. Ajita Lim.

The congregation recited Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta in high spirit, led by Bro. Ajita Lim.

Learning the meaning of the Sutta with Bro. Tan Siang Chye.

Learning the meaning of the Sutta with Bro. Tan Siang Chye.

This meaningful Sunday also marked the conclusion of the annual Gimhāna Retreat, held from 27 May to 13 July.  In his Dhamma talk, Bro. Tan Siang Chye emphasised the importance of having a personal space for daily retreat and practice.  He reminded participants that to progress on the path, wisdom must arise.  Drawing from the Maṅgala Sutta, he encouraged the cultivation of qualities such as moral purification, family responsibility, social obligations and spiritual development.  With right view and clear understanding, one can develop equanimity and ultimately move towards liberation, enabling the attainment of the highest blessings the Buddha taught.

The morning service concluded with Sanghika Dāna (lunch offering to monks).  We rejoice in the wholesome participation of this Dhammacakka Day celebration and may we all continue walking the Noble Path diligently, ensuring the continuous turning of the ‘Wheel of Dhamma’.

Learning the meaning of the Sutta with Bro. Tan Siang Chye.

Members and devotees also offered dana to the monks on this auspicious day.

Members and devotees also offered dana to the monks on this auspicious day.

Members and devotees also offered dana to the monks on this auspicious day.

Members and devotees also offered dana to the monks on this auspicious day.

Dedication of merits to all beings.