Buddhism, a mystical religion currently led by the 14th Dalai Lama, is deeply rooted in Tibetan culture. This religion is an embodiment of compassion, wisdom, and goodwill.
In 2002, Sally Barraud, director of Land of Medicine Buddha, received advice from Lama Zopa Rinpoche to host a Medicine Buddha Festival at LMB.
Unlike most other religions, tibetan buddhist events in Singapore and festivals are celebrated by several non-Buddhist members.
However, understanding Tibetan Buddhism’s and other religions’ beliefs and differences can be challenging.
This guide offers a comprehensive guide to exploring Tibet’s Buddhist-rich scene, ensuring a fully enriched experience and respect for the locals.
What Are The Common Buddhist Festivals?
Before learning the religious etiquette, let us learn about some of the most common Buddhist festivals celebrated around the world—
1. Buddha Purnima
According to legends, Gautama Buddha was believed to be Lord Vishnu’s ninth avatar. He was born on a full moon day in April/May, achieved nirvana, and passed away on the same day.
Buddhists worldwide celebrate this day, Buddha Purnima or Buddha Jayanti, also called Vesak or Vesakha.
This day holds great significance for Buddhists worldwide.
2. Losar
During the Losar festival, Tibetan Buddhists and Indians celebrate by donning new clothes, visiting family, offering prayers at temples, and seeking blessings for good health and harmony.
Additionally, the Cham Dance symbolizes triumph over malice and heralds the beginning of a new year.
3. Ullambana
Ullambana is a Buddhist festival celebrated on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month. In its beliefs, it is similar to Halloween.
According to beliefs, during this festival, the “gates of Hell” open, allowing souls to visit their loved ones.
Moreover, as a gesture of filial piety, Buddhists offer food to spirits and hungry souls to bring good luck for the year. Moreover, Ullambana, which means “deliverance from suffering” in Sanskrit, is a worldwide celebration for those who believe in the Buddhist faith.
4. Magha Puja
On the full moon day of March, Buddhists celebrate the Magha Puja day, commemorating the fourfold assembly.
This significant event marked a historic moment in Lord Buddha’s life when 1250 Buddhists gathered to pray and pay their respects.
Buddhist Events: What Should You Follow?
Given below are some of the most important rules and etiquettes you must follow when attending Buddhist religious events—
1. Understand The Significance Of Peace In Buddhism
Tibetan Buddhism is a practice where people engage in a never-ending quest for peace, often considered easy. The focus is on atoning for sins, with teachers focusing on finding peace.
At the same time, everyday Buddhists aim to offset bad karma for a better future through various practices.
These practices include mantra recitation, meditation, donations, pilgrimages, prayer wheel spinning, and incense lighting.
2. Understand The History
Tibetan Buddhism, a blend of Mahayana and Vajrayana practices, focuses on achieving enlightenment.
Originating in India, it suggests that one can achieve enlightenment through Buddhahood or a “rainbow body.” Both theories emphasize a virtuous, modest approach to life.
Therefore, achieving Buddhahood involves purifying the mind of desire, aversion, and ignorance, leading to everlasting bliss and a sense of peace.
Alternatively, acquiring a “rainbow body” is another route to Nirvana, where one attains all knowledge and liberation from their physical body at the end of life.
This state of bliss occurs when the physical body becomes pure light and disappears, allowing for a state of bliss. The approach to Tibetan Buddhism depends on its branch of practice.
3. How To Dress?
When visiting monasteries, temples, or palaces in Tibet, avoiding sensual clothing or showing off your legs and arms is important.
Instead, dress modestly. Women can wear skirts or dresses as long as they reach their calves, ankle-length dresses, or long and loose trousers.
However, it is a traditional costume rental service if you want to dress like a local Tibetan. This allows you to visit ancient monasteries in a Tibetan costume or take a photo of your visit.
4. Know The Cultural Taboos
When visiting Tibet, it’s important to be aware of local customs and respect the culture.
For example, when taking pictures of Tibetans, especially those doing prostration, it’s important to ask permission first.
They also hand prayer flags with the Six True Words in different places, and turning them over signifies chanting.
Furthermore, there are still places where sky burial is practiced, and outsiders are forbidden to witness or take photographs.
Additionally, it’s important to note that Tibetans only eat beef and mutton and do not consume donkey, horse, dog, or fish meat. All in all, respecting and honoring Tibetan culture and traditions is essential.