Bodhi Day

Supriya Jain
Dec 22, 2023 By Supriya Jain
Originally Published on Mar 25, 2022
Fact-checked by Sakshi Raturi
Bodhi Day celebrations are marked by eating a traditional meal of tea, cake, and readings.

Where is Bodhi Day celebrated?

Bodhi Day is celebrated in China, Korea, Japan, and many other countries.

Who is Bodhi Day celebrated by?

The followers of Buddha in different countries celebrate Bodhi Day.

When did Bodhi Day first start?

Bodhi Day first started in the 19th century.

Who started Bodhi Day?

Mahayana Buddhists started Bodhi Day.

History And Timeline

Bodhi Day, one of the holy days in Buddhism, commemorates the moment 2,500 years ago when Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha, or 'awakened one'. According to legend, after rejecting the luxurious lifestyle, Siddharta left the palace at the age of 29 and embarked on a journey of deep introspection in search of meaning in life.

Enlightenment Of Buddha

It is believed that Siddhartha Gautama got enlightenment when he spent time meditating under the Bodhi tree in 528 BC.

528 BC.

The Writing Of Xuanzang

Xuanzang, a Chinese traveler, writes about the Bodhi tree, and it is one of the powerful pieces of evidence for the existence of the Bodhi tree.

Seventh Century A.D.

Destruction Of Bodhi Tree

The Bodhi tree was destroyed in a storm. The scientific name of the Bodhi tree is 'Ficus religiosa'.

1881

New Bodhi Tree

When the original Bodhi tree was destroyed in a storm, Alexander Cunningham, a British archeologist, planted a new Bodhi tree.

1881

Symbol Of World Peace

The Indian government honors Nihon-Ji with the sapling of the Bodhi tree as a symbol of world peace.

1989

Traditions And Customs

People used to celebrate Bodhi Day in various interesting ways. People gathered together and joined in prayer at night, as people believed that they could experience a spiritually renewing time during that day.

People also share the message of enlightenment and stories about Buddha on this day. People used to observe unbroken meditation and Buddha's practices during this day. On this holy day, people read Buddhist texts and visit Buddhist homes.

People used to be inspired by the four noble truths and the great vow of Buddhism. Buddhists celebrate Buddha’s enlightenment.

Ways To Celebrate Or Observe Boddhi Day

There are many ways to celebrate Bodhi Day. You can give food to Buddhists who live as homeless mendicants. You should respect the Buddhist faith by sharing the stories of Buddha with your friends.

You shall respect the three jewels of Buddhism: Buddha, the dharma, and the sangha. You should visit the sacred sites of Buddhism.

The important event of this day is to remember the enlightened one, and you can participate in the celebrations of Venus Rising, a Buddhist organization in Whittier. You may also remember the six teachers of Buddhism and decorate your homes with pictures of Buddha under the Bodhi tree.

Facts And Stats

  • Bodhi Day is celebrated on December 8 every year across the world, but celebrations are quite prominent in Japan. You can conduct classes about yoga and meditation for the younger generation and share photos on social media.
  • Bodhi Day is observed to commemorate the day, 2500 years ago, when Siddhartha Gautama gained enlightenment.
  • On this day, different events are organized across the world to commemorate Buddha's enlightenment through Buddhist practices.

What happens on Bodhi Day?

On Bodhi Day, Buddhists will decorate the bodhi tree with lights and statues and spend time meditating on Buddha’s messages.

What is Bodhi Day in Japan?

Bodhi Day is an annual homage to the formative event in the history of Buddhism.

What does 'bodhi' mean in Buddhism?

Bodhi means 'enlightenment' in Buddhism.

How is Bodhi Day celebrated?

Bodhi Day is celebrated by meditating on Buddha's teachings.

Where is Bodhi Day celebrated?

Bodhi Day is celebrated in Japan, China, and many other countries.

What assumptions do we need to make while celebrating Bodhi Day?

We have to respect Buddha’s teachings and the rules of Sangam.

What are some advantages to celebrating Bodhi Day?

People gain enlightenment from the Buddha's teachings on this day.

Who originally directed Bodhi Day?

Mahayana Buddhists started Bodhi Day.

How do families celebrate Bodhi Day?

Families celebrate Bodhi Day by gathering together and following Buddha’s teachings.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Monday, December 07, 2020
  • Tuesday, December 07, 2021
  • Wednesday, December 07, 2022
  • Thursday, December 07, 2023
  • Saturday, December 07, 2024

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Written by Supriya Jain

Bachelor of Commerce, Master of Business Administration specializing in Marketing

Supriya Jain picture

Supriya JainBachelor of Commerce, Master of Business Administration specializing in Marketing

As a skilled member of the Kidadl team, Shruti brings extensive experience and expertise in professional content writing. With a Bachelor's degree in Commerce from Punjab University and an MBA in Business Administration from IMT Nagpur, Shruti has worked in diverse roles such as sales intern, content writer, executive trainee, and business development consultant. Her exceptional writing skills cover a wide range of areas, including SOP, SEO, B2B/B2C, and academic content.

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Fact-checked by Sakshi Raturi

Postgraduate Diploma in Management

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Sakshi RaturiPostgraduate Diploma in Management

Sakshi has experience in marketing strategy, social media planning, and recruiting industry experts for capstone projects, she has displayed a commitment to enhancing their skills and knowledge. She has won multiple awards, including a Certificate of Appreciation for Creative Writing and a Certificate of Merit for Immaculate Turut, and is always seeking new opportunities to grow and develop.

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