The first month of the Chinese Lunar month is called the “Yuan” month, and night means “Xiao” so it is commonly known as the Yuan-xiao Festival. It also symbolizes the beginning of Spring.
Based on legends, the Lunar Lantern Festival originated around two thousand years ago when Buddhism first flourished in China. During that time, heavenly gods would appear in the sky on the first full moon of the Lunar calendar. But there was a particular year when the clouds were thick and covered the entire sky. Fearful that the heavenly gods would not appear, the villagers lit up torches and hang up bright lanterns to illuminate the sky. From that day on, it became a common practice for people to light up beautiful and colorful lanterns on this day to welcome the arrival of heavenly gods.
So Yuan-xiao Festival is a day of celebration. Best wishes to all! May you be illuminated, healthy and happy!
Master Jin Bodhi Facebook
More information available at:
1) Meditation and Health
2) Official Bodhi Meditation Website
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