Date
Saturday
Feb
15

February 15

Parinirvana Day

On Parinirvana Day, we honor the life and teachings of Buddha - join us in meditation and reflection to find inner peace and enlightenment.

Yearly Date
February 15
Type
Day
Category
Religious

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate the ultimate enlightenment on Parinirvana Day, occurring on February 15! This holiday is an important part of Buddhist tradition and commemorates the death of Buddha, as well as his final attainment of Nirvana. It is believed that on this day, Buddha passed into complete liberation from the cycle of rebirth. While it may seem like a somber occasion, it is actually a time for reflection and celebrating the teachings of Buddhism. So take some time to meditate and honor this significant day in a positive and meaningful way.

Parinirvana Day Timeline

563 BCE
Buddha's Birth
Siddhartha Gautama, later known as Buddha, is believed to have been born in Lumbini, present-day Nepal.
528 BCE
Attainment of Enlightenment
Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, becoming Buddha.
483 BCE
Buddha's Parinirvana
Buddha entered Parinirvana, marking the end of his life and his complete liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
1st Century CE
Mahayana Buddhism Emergence
The Mahayana tradition of Buddhism, which reveres the Parinirvana of Buddha, emerged around this period.
5th Century CE
The Parinirvana Sutra
The Parinirvana Sutra, a Mahayana Buddhist text highlighting the final days and teachings of Buddha, is believed to have been compiled.
1950
World Fellowship of Buddhists Establishment
The World Fellowship of Buddhists established the holiday of Parinirvana Day, observed annually on February 15, paying homage to Buddha's teachings and his attainment of ultimate enlightenment.

How to Celebrate Parinirvana Day

1

Meditate on the teachings of Buddha

Parinirvana Day is a time to reflect on the teachings of Buddha and his journey towards enlightenment. Take some time to meditate on these teachings and find peace within yourself.

2

Attend a Buddhist ceremony or service

Many Buddhist temples and centers hold special ceremonies or services on Parinirvana Day. Attend one of these events to connect with others and honor the memory of Buddha's passing.

3

Volunteer at a local charity or organization

In honor of Buddha's teachings of compassion and service, spend the day volunteering at a local charity or organization. This is a meaningful way to celebrate Parinirvana Day and give back to your community.

4

Read and discuss Buddhist texts with friends

Gather some friends who are also interested in Buddhism and spend the day reading and discussing Buddhist texts. This is a great way to deepen your understanding of the religion and its teachings.

5

Take a pilgrimage to a Buddhist holy site

If you have the means and opportunity, consider taking a pilgrimage to a Buddhist holy site on Parinirvana Day. This could be a powerful and meaningful experience to honor Buddha's life and teachings.

Why Parinirvana Day is Important

A

It commemorates the death of Buddha

Parinirvana Day is an important holiday for Buddhists as it marks the passing of their founder and spiritual leader, Gautama Buddha. It serves as a time to reflect on his teachings, his legacy, and the impact he had on Buddhism and the world.

B

It symbolizes the attainment of enlightenment

The word "parinirvana" means the final passing or release from the cycle of rebirth. For Buddhists, this day also represents the ultimate goal of achieving enlightenment and liberation from suffering. It serves as a reminder of our own mortality and to strive towards spiritual growth.

C

It is a day for reflection and renewal

Parinirvana Day is often celebrated with meditation, chanting, and offerings at Buddhist temples around the world. It provides a space for individuals to reflect on their own journey towards enlightenment and to renew their commitment to the Buddhist path. It's a time for self-reflection and introspection, fostering personal growth and spiritual development.

Parinirvana Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Feb 14
Tuesday
2024
Feb 14
Wednesday
2025
Feb 14
Friday
2026
Feb 14
Saturday
2027
Feb 14
Sunday