Significance of Buddha Purnima

Buddha Purnima honors the birth, death and enlightenment of Gautam Buddha and according to various discourses available on Lord Buddha, all of these events are believed to have taken place on the very same day.

Prince Siddhartha, who later became Gautam Buddha was born in Nepal in 400 B.C. He was raised in a luxurious palace secluded from the sufferings of the world outside. However, one day Prince Siddhartha decided to find a higher purpose in life.

He left the palace and roamed around the kingdom dressed up as an impersonator. During his journey, he met various people who were distressed because of diseases and old age, and he also observed death closely. This event influenced him as he witnessed the ephemeral nature of human life.

It was at that moment he took an oath to leave his luxurious life and seek ‘moksha’. He made his way towards the forest to live his life as an ascetic. It was only after he achieved great enlightenment that he conferred the title, Gautama Buddha.

Lord Buddha was only 29-years old when he decided to seek answers to his questions about human life and abandoned his luxurious and married life behind. Throughout his life, he imparted his teachings and values to various followers and people.

Muhurat of Buddha Purnima 2020

This year, the festival of Buddha Purnima will be celebrated on 6th May 2020. Buddha Purnima Tithi begins- 19:44 (6th May 2020) Buddha Purnima Tithi ends– 16:14 (7 May 2020). This is the auspicious time to worship Lord Buddha.

This is the auspicious time to worship Lord Buddha. As a matter of fact, it is the 2582 celebration of Buddha Purnima.

Buddha Purnima- Rituals & ceremonies 

To honor the birth of Lord Buddha, people perform various rituals and ceremonies. These ceremonies include chanting Buddhist mantras, reciting religious scriptures, performing mass meditations, taking part in prayers, giving sermons, and worshipping a statue of the Buddha.

Many Buddhist followers pay a visit to shrines on this auspicious day. The followers offer prayers, recite scriptures and spend the day in shrines.

Many Buddhist shrines keep a small figure of Lord Buddha in a basin brimming with water which is adorned beautifully with sweet-smelling flowers.

The worshippers offer water, flowers, and fruits to the idol of Buddha which indicates the beginning of a new chapter. The worshipping of Buddha is also done by lighting candles.

The ideals of Lord Buddha are given plenty of importance on this auspicious festival. People donate money and food to the underprivileged.

The worshippers usually dress up in white clothes on this day and refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food. ‘Kheer’ is also made on this day as according to a fable, Sujata, served ‘kheer’ to Lord Buddha on this day. Onion and garlic are also avoided by the devotees.

Buddha Purnima’s effect on the 12 zodiac signs

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

The full moon in the 8th house will activate the flow of money and will help you boost your self-esteem as well as confidence. It’s a good time for those who are willing to start a business partnership with someone.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Since the moon controls our feelings, the full moon can intensify our emotions leading us to feel dazed and lost. The full moon’s bright rays bring about fresh perspectives on relationships.

You may go through a frenzy of emotions regarding a relationship during this period. While these variations may seem intimidating, eventually it may open a new door for you as change is only constant.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

This is a pretty exciting time for all the Geminis out there. Changes in the health front and workplace are indicated. You really need to listen to your body and transform yourself accordingly.

With Mars in the second house, it is a good time to change your job or start a business partnership. This Buddha Purnima, you can easily find time to polish your talent and go after your dreams passionately.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Cancerians, it’s a great time to reflect on your goals or desires and to mingle with new people. You might also meet someone with whom you’ll share an intimate relationship.

The full moon asks you to channelize your passionate and creative energies. Take some time out to enjoy and rejoice.

Leo (July 23 – Aug.22)

During this period, you are going to spend some time learning about metaphysical beliefs or to indulge in some kind of spiritual activities.

Take this full moon as an opportunity to maintain a balance between your personal life and professional life. Try not to bottle up your desires as it could turn your life upside down.

Virgo (Aug.23 – Sept.22)

Dear Virgos, this is a good time to build new friendships and to make strong connections or networks. This full moon brings a change in a way you approach your dreams and desires.

It will urge you to take some action towards fulfilling them. The lunar energy makes you more alert and conscious of the surrounding things.

Libra (Sept.23 – Oct.22)

Librans, this is an opportunity for you to start a new business or to apply for a scholarship. This period indicates physical and emotional healing, so be ready to rise and expand yourself.

Some financial changes are indicated. You may discover a talent which could transform your life altogether.

Scorpio (Oct.23 – Nov.21)

This year’s Buddha Purnima will bring luck with full Moon in for Scorpions. The full moon in Scorpio will focus on the need to rely on your imaginative powers.

This full moon indicates healing, defying inner demons, miracles and discovering different things. Scorpions, you need to move beyond the ordinary to get favorable results.

Sagittarius (Nov.22 – Dec.21)

Sagittarians, this is the right time for you to reject limitations and supersede the boundaries. You might want to volunteer for different activities and do some charitable deeds.

It is a wonderful time to explore, discover and research about the unknown and metaphysical. This full moon asks you to meditate and to reflect on the real you.

Capricorn (Dec.22 – Jan.19)

The full moon brings an opportunity to blossom and bring out your inner child. You need to channelize all those energies that will elevate your life. It is an opportunity to reflect on your social circles and friendships.

Aquarius (Jan.20 – Feb.18)

This full moon offers some new opportunities for you to connect with your family members. It is also a wonderful time to get rid of things you no longer need.

This full moon asks you to focus on your creative and entrepreneurial abilities. Many of you will change jobs and embrace new perspectives and will just do what brings you happiness peace.

Pisces (Feb.19 – March 20)

A new relationship awaits you. It is a great time to pack your bags and treat yourself to a short trip. Also, you might find yourself feeling restless so take a break to rejuvenate yourself.

The full moon brings you an opportunity to try a career in publishing. It is also a great time to make your life playful and expand your boundaries.