Obon
Each July we gather together as a temple and observe Obon. The summer season it synonymous with Obon and the many traditions, legends and events associated with it. The season of Obon is associated with a visit to the gravesite of family members. Families will gather and clean the gravesite and offer fresh flowers and burn incense at the gravesite. For many of our family members this means traveling back to their hometowns. The experience of returning home has both emotional and religious significance.
Returning home comes with memories and opportunities to reacquaint ourselves with family and friends. Arriving home, we see familiar landmarks, restaurants, schools and neighborhoods, it can bring back childhood memories and even a longing for bygone days. Upon returning home we cannot help but to reflect upon our deceased family members. Returning home can be emotional as the memories flood back into our hearts and minds. Returning home can also be peaceful, comforting and relaxing.
The tradition of returning home at Obon time is significant. It has been often likened to returning to the home of homes with Amida Buddha. Amida embraces us as we return to our homes, and accepts us just as we are. Faith in Amida’s great compassion and wisdom comes with a sense of peace, comfort and relaxation. What that means for us is to return to our original nature, our true and real selves. The true and real self is the self that is able to see life as it truly is. This means embracing the truths of impermanence and interdependency.
The season of Obon, is a time to remember our loved ones who have returned to the Pure Land. As we reflect upon their lives and remember their influence on our lives, we express our deep gratitude to them with visits to the gravesite, making offerings of flowers and incense and putting our hands together in Gassho and reciting the name of Amida, Namoamidabutsu.
Gassho,
Rev. Hosei Shinseki
Comments