Sis. Paru explained the Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta to the congregation, for a greater appreciation of the Buddha’s first sermon.

On Wednesday 9 July, the Āsāḷha Full-moon evening, devotees gathered at Nalanda Centre to commemorate Dhamma Day, the sacred occasion which marks three pivotal events in Buddhist history – the conception of Buddha Gotama, His renunciation of worldly life, and most significantly, the day He first expounded the Dhamma as the Enlightened One.

Bro. Ajita Lim led the spirited chanting of the Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta, echoing the Buddha’s first sermon delivered over 2,600 years ago to His five disciples at Isipatana.  Sis. Paruadi Ramasamy then expounded on the Sutta, exploring the essence of the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.  Sis. Paru also reminded us that this day also marks the establishment of the Sangha, and hence the Three Jewels.

The service started with offerings, chanting and meditation.

The bright full-moon of the Asalha month shines majestically.

Bro. Ajit shared the events of what happened after the Buddha attained Enlightenment to when He preached to His first 5 disciples.

Chanting the first sermon together.

Meditation to calm the mind before the talk.

In her sharing, Sis. Paru explained that the Buddha taught us to avoid both extremes of indulgence and self-mortification.

We invite you to join Dhammacakka Day this Sunday 13 July, 9am-12pm at Nalanda Centre.  The service will include offerings, chanting, a Dhamma talk by Bro. Tan Siang Chye and concludes with lunch dāna to the Sangha.  We welcome you to bring cooked vegetarian food and fruits for offering.  See you at Nalanda Centre.