Moments of Enlightenment

In the vast expanse of a dark ocean, a solitary lighthouse stands resolute, its beam cutting through the darkness, guiding sailors on their journey and leading lost ships to distant shores. This lighthouse mirrors the traditional spirit of the Enlightenment Ceremony, where offerings and prayers from the living world light the path for lost souls in the afterlife, guiding them to their final destination. The light dispels darkness, and the benevolent prayers and thoughts of people illuminate the human spirit, piercing through the world’s indifference.

In 2024, Xiao En’s Enlightenment Ceremony embraces “enlightenment” as its theme. This symbolises not only lighting the way for all beings to reach the other shore of the afterlife but also reflects the power of praying for others, kindling one’s own inner goodness. Reflecting on the Xiao En Enlightenment Ceremony over the years, it is not just the grandeur of the ceremonies that shines brightly, but every participant’s simple acts of kindness that create moments of “enlightenment,” each good deed radiating light. As we approach this year’s Enlightenment Ceremony, let us cherish and remember the many warm moments of illumination from the past.

Cultural Heritage: Guiding Others, Enlightening Oneself

As the Enlightenment Ceremony commences, a tall bamboo banner is raised to invite the deities to participate in the grand celebration, and to guide the living to come and listen to the teachings. Under the bamboo banner stands the “Da Shi Ye, The King of Hell,” who acts as the guardian deity protecting the order and peace between the realms of the living and the dead during this auspicious occasion.

The gathered masters preside over the ceremonial rites, leading the living in making offerings and reciting sutras. They pray for blessings upon the ancestors and all lost souls, so that they may board the Dharma ship, escape the sea of suffering, and be guided to the other shore of the afterlife. The merit accrued from this act of compassion and beneficence is then dedicated towards one’s own spiritual liberation, seamlessly integrating the realms of the living and the dead.

Each prayer lamp lit during the festival illuminates the grand proceedings, while the good intentions they carry also kindle the warmth and kindness in the world.

Moment of Chanting: Reuniting Families Across the Realms of Life and Death

During the ceremonial chanting /sutra recitation of the Enlightenment Ceremony, the master encourages families to join in the prayers together, gathering more blessings and good thoughts. The belief is that chanting can guide the deceased to hear the scriptures and teachings, helping them reach paradise sooner. By sincerely following the master’s lead, participants chant with devotion. In these moments, what we see is not the opposition of life and death but the reunion and connection of a family lineage transcending time and space. Ancestors and descendants alike share in the mutual blessing of “peace in life and death.”

Blessings and Goodwill: Small Acts of Kindness, Illuminating the Heart

Every prayer radiates the light of goodwill. While the forms may differ, they all originate from a place of kindness and good intentions. Some express their prayers through folded hands, making vows to the gods; others convey tranquillity and peace through transcribing scriptures. Some embed their hopes in paper cranes they fold by hand, while others write down their wishes, such as “world peace” or “relief from disasters,” inspiring those who read them and influencing the next person to make a vow. These actions create heartwarming moments of illumination throughout the festival.

Mutual Aid and Joy: One Act of Kindness at a Time, Illuminating the World

If every moment of helping others and promoting harmony is a spark of illumination, then the photographic records of the Enlightenment Ceremony over the years at Xiao En would be filled with countless such examples. Some contribute by lending a hand, others spread joy like jesters. Some have conveyed selfless kindness by being a silent mentor, and others have simply gathered under the great trees with their families during this grand celebration or enjoyed quality parent-child time through picture books. So, are lights and lamps the only things that can illuminate the world? There is so very much more…

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