In the Hongwanji tradition, Obon is really a gathering of joy. It is not a homecoming of ancestral spirits. That is why our tradiotn does not welcome them or send them off. But this idea of a spirit homecoming is really an innate Japanese tradition that goes back before the advent of Buddhism from China.
YhebGathering of Joy is to hear the Dharma, and to bring the Sangha together. In the Hingwanji, when passing, we enter the Pure Land (Jodo) immediately. Thus there is no 'soul' we are joined to Amids Buddha. But as homecoming of the living, Obon is ideal. We dance the Obon dances for joy and having a good time. this really is a festival, or 'matsuri.'
To have around 1,000 each day of the Obon matsuri is quite an accomplishment for the temple to care for the guests. Yes, it is a fundraiser and it does return some funds into the general budget. But, our Sangha has to support the dancers and their friends and family.
A big thank you to our Sangha members for putting on this party.
And to the public, including members of our neighbor temples and churches and the Hongwanji temples in yhe U.S. Who vame, thank you for visitng.
Although we are missing this year our resident minister, we continue the work that needs to get done - a Dharma lesson.
In gassho,
No comments:
Post a Comment