The topic of today's Service Sunday Dhamma talk was, "A Buddhist Reflects on Learning". Dr. Phang spoke on how one ought to approach learning - with an open mind like that of a beginner's - free from preconceptual ideas and willing to explore. When we learn something new, we should also be happy to share it with others and spread the benefits. Rejoice when other people learn from our learnings!
Read moreAfter lunch, the participants went to Pustaka Nalanda for the sharing and discussion on "The Three Jewels (Part 1)".
Read moreIntroduction The editor goes deeper to explore the unique and universal challenges faced by young people on the spiritual path - from issues of identity to mental health and intimate relationships. The book offers the voices of many teenagers and young adults of diverse ethnic heritage, as well as fascinating accounts from established Buddhist teachers - e.g. Thich Nhat Hanh, Ven. H. Gunaratana, etc. - looking back at their own youthful experiences on the path.
Read moreMonthly Dhamma Discussion Date: 11 May 2012, Friday Time: 12pm – 1.30pm Venue: Pustaka Nalanda Topic: The Three Jewels – Part 1
Read morePindacara (almsround) on Wesak Dawn - Fulfilling our duty as lay devotees by supporting Sangha members. Wesak at Nalanda was observed with a packed but meaningful programme from 4 to 6 May. This year saw a record turnout of more than 2,000 visitors over the weekend. Everyone came together with strong devotional spirit and added meaning to our celebration. The activities and events steered all of us towards the cultivation of loving-kindness, generosity and much peace.
Read moreAs part of Nalanda’s Wesak Programme, we were fortunate to have Mr. Vijaya Samarawickrama (also fondly known as Uncle Vijaya) give a Dhamma talk this morning on “Being Well Begins with Me”, in line with this year’s Wesak theme. “Be-ing” means to be here and now. It is dwelling in the present, letting go of the past and not worrying about a future that has not materialised.
Read moreDear Friends, Namo Buddhaya! Wesak Day commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Lord Buddha. Let us observe this occasion mindfully, peacefully, with full gratitude and respect for our great Teacher. It is also a time for us to reflect on the sublime goodness of the Buddha and his teaching.
Read moreA Truly ‘Green’ Heritage Procession at Nalanda
The Wesak Procession held annually in Sri Serdang by Nalanda Buddhist Society is a truly unique experience! It is the only procession in Malaysia where the Buddharupam (image) is paraded on a wooden sedan and carried by 12 men taking turns. There is also a second Buddharupam ferried on a bahtera (boat), pulled by devotees along the 1.3km procession route. Devotees cover the route in 2,600 mindful steps, marking the 2,600th Anniversary of Buddhism this year.
Besides the sedan and bahtera, there is an assortment of colourful parasols, figurines and flags on parade, which are borne by devotees in traditional Nalandian uniform of sarong and white tops. Students of Nalanda Dharma School will also put up a spirited ‘Naga Dance’, accompanied by the beats of drums, gong and cymbals. The sights and sounds of the Nalandian procession rich in heritage is truly something to behold. It is also an event much anticipated and photographed; in fact, the procession was even featured on a Sri Lankan television programme on Wesak celebrations!
Have you read a Dhamma book today? What can we do to make this Wesak a meaningful day? Besides participating in religious activities at Buddhist temple or centre, we can also read a book on Buddhism and share our understanding with family members and friends.
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