Duruthu Poya: The First Poya Day of the Year
Duruthu Poya, celebrated on the full moon day of January, is the first Poya day in the Buddhist calendar. This day holds profound significance for Sri Lankan Buddhists, as it commemorates the Buddha's first visit to the island over 2,500 years ago. His visit, aimed at quelling discord and fostering peace, symbolizes harmony and reconciliation, laying the foundation for Sri Lanka's deep Buddhist heritage.
The Historical and Spiritual Significance
The Buddha's Visit
The Buddha’s visit to Sri Lanka is considered a pivotal moment in the island's history. It not only restored peace and harmony among warring factions but also paved the way for Buddhist relations between Sri Lanka and India. The Buddha’s mission was to bring freedom from violence and inspire the island’s inhabitants with his teachings of compassion and non-violence.
Establishment of Buddhism
The Buddha’s visit marked the beginning of Buddhism’s formal presence in Sri Lanka. During this time, the Mahiyangana Stupa, the first stupa in the country, was constructed. It is believed to enshrine the sacred relics of the Buddha and stands as a symbol of the island's enduring devotion to Buddhism. This monumental event laid the foundation for the spread of the Buddha’s teachings in Sri Lanka.
The Buddha’s Footprint
During this visit, the local deity Sumana Saman invited the Buddha to leave his sacred footprint on the peak of Samanala Mountain, now famously known as Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak). Buddhists and followers of other faiths revere this footprint, which symbolizes the unity and inclusivity of Sri Lanka’s spiritual traditions.
The Sakkapañha Sutta
In the Kelaniya region, the Buddha delivered the profound discourse of the Sakkapañha Sutta. This teaching offers insights into the nature of existence and the path to liberation, emphasizing the importance of ethical living, mindfulness, and compassion.
Rituals and Celebrations
On this sacred day, devotees engage in various religious practices to honor the Buddha’s visit and teachings:
Sil Observance: Observing Atasil (Eight Precepts) and dedicating time to meditation and spiritual growth.
Dāna (Offerings): Offering food, robes, and other necessities to monks as acts of merit.
Temple Visits: Lighting oil lamps, offering flowers, and chanting Pali stanzas like the Seth Pirith.
Peraheras (Processions): Colorful processions in some regions add a vibrant cultural aspect to the celebrations.
A Day of Reflection and Renewal
Duruthu Poya reminds Buddhists of the Buddha’s teachings on peace, coexistence, and compassion. It invites Buddhists to begin the new year with mindfulness and moral integrity. It is a day for spiritual renewal and for fostering virtues that contribute to personal growth and the well-being of society.
This sacred occasion encourages everyone to reflect on the Buddha's timeless wisdom and strive for harmony within themselves and the wider community.