Group photo of devotees during Āsāḷha Full-moon Uposatha observance.

On Tuesday 28 July, devotees gathered at Nalanda Centre with faith and gratitude to observe the Āsāḷha Full-moon Uposatha and commemorate Dhamma Day, marking the Buddha’s first turning of the Wheel of Dhamma over 2,600 years ago.  The congregation reverently recited the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, reflecting on the timeless teachings of the Middle Way, the Four Noble Truths, and the Noble Eightfold Path.

In her Dhamma sharing, Sis. Buddhini Tan reminded everyone that true freedom begins with understanding the Four Noble Truths.  Suffering arises not from external conditions, but from craving and attachment.  By cultivating wisdom and learning to let go, we gradually move towards the cessation of dukkha.

Bro. DiSheng welcomed everyone to the Āsāḷha Full-moon Uposatha observance.

Offering of items to commence the evening service.

Recitation of the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, reflecting on the timeless teachings of the Middle Way, the Four Noble Truths, and the Noble Eightfold Path.

She encouraged practitioners to reconnect with their Dhamma roots by nurturing the wholesome qualities of non-greed, non-hatred, and non-delusion.  She also highlighted that Dhamma practice is reflected in a life that is orderly, peaceful, harmonious, and balanced, and that the worldly responsibilities of lay practitioners can be integrated with spiritual cultivation by viewing every moment as an opportunity to practise wisely.

Drawing from the Pahārāda Sutta (AN 8.19), Sis. Buddhini shared the eight qualities of the astounding Dhamma, likening it to the great ocean – gradual, steadfast, pure, inclusive, constant, and possessing a single taste: the taste of liberation (‘vimutti-rasa’), while containing countless treasures such as mindfulness, right effort, and the factors of awakening and home to Great Beings, from stream-enterers to arahants.

May we continue learning, practising, and sharing the Dhamma together, keeping the Wheel of Dhamma turning for the prolongation of the Buddha Sāsana.

Cultivation of mind through meditation.

Sis. Buddhini reminded everyone regarding the significance of Dhamma Day and also shared Pahārāda Sutta (AN 8.19).

Devotees were listening attentively to Sis. Buddhini.

Dhamma Family members of Dhammaguna and Dhammajoti.