As Wesak Day approaches, Penang Wan Ching Yuen held a Buddha Bathing Ceremony on May 28, 2026 to celebrate in advance. On that day, the senior citizens gathered early in the shrine hall, listening to Buddhist hymns while quietly awaiting the arrival of the Sangha members.

Wan Ching Yuen Staffs and volunteers had prepared the Buddha Bathing basin and elegant decorations one day before.

Before the Buddha Bathing Ceremony began, Venerable Zhen Ru compassionately delivered a Dharma talk to the senior citizens, using simple and clear language to explain The Song of Buddha’s History lyric, and elaborated on: the life story of the Buddha (birth, enlightenment, nirvana); the origin of Buddhism founded by the Buddha; the transmission of the Dharma in the world; and the continuation of the Sangha (community of Sangha members).

Venerable Zhen Ru also led everyone in singing The Song of Buddha’s History composed by Principal Chan Seow Yin. In addition, Venerable mentioned that Buddha Day is a “Threefold Celebration in One,” commemorating Prince Siddhartha’s birth, Shakyamuni Buddha’s enlightenment, and his nirvana. The Buddha Bathing ritual performed three times symbolizes purifying one’s body, speech, and mind — the three karmic actions.

After the Dharma talk, Venerable Zhen Ru and other Sangha members guided everyone in chanting “Incense Offering Praise”, the “Heart Sutra”, the “Praise of the Buddha Gatha”, “Namo Shakyamuni Buddha”, and the Buddha Bathing Gatha. The senior citizens participated with great focus and devotion.

The ceremony then proceeded to the Buddha Bathing Ceremony. Venerable Zhen Ru bathed the Buddha first, followed by the other Sangha members, and then the senior citizens with assistance from the staff. The Buddha Bathing symbolizes “externally bathing the Buddha’s body, internally cleansing one’s mind.” During the ritual, the Sangha members tied five-colored threads on each devotee’s wrist, representing the virtues and wisdom of the Tathagata, as well as protection from evil and blessings of health and longevity. Staff and volunteers also took this auspicious opportunity to participate in the Bathing Buddha ritual.

At the conclusion of the bathing ceremony, the Sangha members led the assembly in chanting the “Three Refuges” and “Dedication of Merit.” With that, the Buddha Bathing Ceremony was concluded successfully and harmoniously.

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More photos:https://thanhsiang.org/CH/node/7001
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