On this occasion, devotees line up in a procession
before sunrise to meditatively circumambulate around
the inner perimeter of the temple- bowing once every
three steps while chanting "Homage to the Original
Teacher (The Historical Founder of Buddhism in our
world) Shakyamuni Buddha" (Na Mo Ben Shi Shi Jia Mou
Ni Fo).
Upon every prostration, the Buddha can be visualised
standing upon one's open palms which symbolise lotuses
(that denote purity). Every prostration is thus paying
respects to the buddha or the countless Buddhas and
Bodhisattvas of every direction. This practice helps
to purify the mind, humble the ego, and lessen
obstacles along the spiritual path as one repents past
unwholesome deeds of body, speech and mind, and
aspires towards spiritual improvrment. It is also an
occasion to express gratitude to the Buddha for His
compassion.
Concentration and calmness can be achieved as one
becomes constantly mindful of the processes of the
body, speech and mind during the practice. Unanswered
spiritual questions are sometimes answered as one
enters deep concentration and realises the roots of
the problems.
As the ceremony is lengthy (taking slightly more than
two hours) and over undulating land of different
surfaces, it reminds one of the long and difficult
journey towards Enlightenment. But it also serves to
remind us that as long as one has determination, all
difficulties can be overcome. Perseverance in
completing the journey despite its difficulties also
strengthens one's faith in the Triple Gem to lead us
towards Enlightenment.
The break of dawn at the end of the ceremony
represents the light of wisdom dispelling the darkness
of ignorance as one advances on the spiritual path
towards Enlightenment. Participating in this special
event, among others, on the holy Vesak Day is
considered very meritorious. It is extrememly
difficult to describe the spiritual joy one feels upon
completion of the ceremony, receiving the blessing of
cool holy water being sprinkled upon the head by the
Sangha. It is an experience that one has to go through
to fully appreciate it!