Mahayana New Year is a Buddhist holiday, observed by Mahayana Buddhist communities, particularly in Northeast Asia, to celebrate the start of the new year. It often falls on the first full moon of January, but the exact date can vary depending on the specific tradition and region. Celebrations include honoring deities, visiting temples, and engaging in acts of kindness and reflection. It’s a time for new beginnings, introspection, and recommitting to Buddhist values like compassion and wisdom.
Practices:
- Visiting temples: Many Buddhists visit temples to offer prayers and light candles for good luck.
- Honoring deities: Bathing Buddha statues and offering religious songs are common practices.
- Acts of kindness: Sharing good wishes, performing acts of kindness, and reflecting on past actions are also important.