|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
Sangha Summer Retreat
|
||||
| The Sangha Summer Retreat originates from the Buddha’s time. In India, the sangha either went to meditate in the mountains, by the rivers, or practiced walking meditation in the forest. During the three summer months, due to the heavy summer rains, their alms bowl and clothing were often drenched or washed away by the rain waters; therefore, the lay disciples begged the Buddha to provide a sheltered place for the sangha; they would then make offerings of food to the sangha so that the sangha could concentrate on their practice and not suffer from the summer rains. |  |
|||
In his compassion, the Buddha set aside a summer retreat period from the 16th day of the 4th lunar month to the 15th day of the 7th lunar month. During that time, lay disciples offered food, clothing, bedding, medicine, and other necessities of daily life to the sangha so that they could peacefully and vigorously cultivate the Way. During those three months the sangha would not go out except to take care of their parents and teachers and to carry out the work of the Three Jewels. This period of time is known as the “three-month summer retreat and 90-days of tranquil living.” This year, in the Chinese lunar calendar 2009, there is a leap 5th intercalary month. Therefore, it’s an extraordinary condition for sangha to have a “four-month summer retreat and 120-days of tranquil living.” Through his compassionate vow to liberate all sentient beings, Grand Master Wei Chueh founded the Chung Tai Chan Monastery and established the sangha assembly so that everyone can practice and learn Buddhism. To show their appreciation, disciples at all branches of the Chung Tai Chan meditation centers are observing the summer retreat period by holding the Medicine Buddha Gratitude Ceremony. We invite you to join our daily recitation of the Sutra of the Medicine Buddha or bring offerings such as fruits, food, flowers and water to the monastery. May the Three Jewels be merciful to us; may the merits benefit all our benefactors above as well as all those in the lower realms. We will dedicate these merits toward peace in the world and all sentient beings, so that all may eradicate all of their afflictions, be free from calamities and attain enlightenment. |
||||
|
||||
|
|