01/05/2025

Xiang Yun Temple Commemorates Buddha's Enlightenment Day – A taste of Zen porridge to Bathe in Buddha's Grace

Reported by Pu Hui

January 7th is the eighth day of the twelfth lunar month of the lunar calendar. Fo Guang Shan's Xiang Yun Temple held a lantern ceremony on January 5 to offer Laba porridge to the public in advance. 120 Chinese and local residences participated and shared the joy of Buddha's enlightenment.

In order to cook delicious Laba porridge, volunteers purchased and prepared ingredients many days in advance, and cook them carefully according to the secret recipe of Venerable Master Hsing Yun.

In the Dharma talk, Ven. Jue Ji revealed the origin of Laba porridge, and also said that Venerable Master Hsing Yun interpreted the three new meanings of Laba porridge with warmth, harmony and perfection. The Venerable also shared and led more than 30 BLIA members and youth groups from Xiang Yun Temple to participate in the Gods' Friendship Conference in headquarter FGS in Taiwan Kaohsiung and everyone brought back good memories.

During the "Tea and Dharma Talk" after lunch, Ven. Yongjia explained the meaning of another layer of Laba porridge, which made people realize that asceticism could not be achieved, and only the Middle Way is the true path to liberation.

Thanks to many volunteers for their hard work over the past few days, in addition to enjoying them in the dining hall, many people also took portions home to share with family and friends. Feel the warmth and beauty of Buddhism on earth.