Poson Full Moon Day recalls a historic mission
During the reign of King Devanampiyatissa;
The Noble gift of Dhamma and great Compassion
Is elaborated in the literary source, the Mahawansa. It was a memorable day in our recorded history,
When Mahinda Thera met the King; the moment
Of a great awakening for Sri Lanka, a day of
Festivity, with the royal sport of hunting. Arahat Mahinda volunteered to visit Sri Lanka
At the request of his father King Ashoka;
His meeting with King Tissa at Mihintale peak
Is the holiest moment in Sri Lanka’s history. The brief conversation – to judge the king’s wisdom –
Launched an era of virtue and wisdom; Mahinda
Delivered the “Chullahaththipadopama Sutra”,
Revealing the Dhamma’s perpetual illumination. The first discourse of Arahat Mahinda Thera
Rapidly brought peace and prosperity to Sri Lanka;
Forty thousand followers joined the new faith,
People rejoiced in Mahinda’s mission. Dedicated to propagating the Dhamma in Sri Lanka
Mahinda Thera passed away peacefully aged eighty,Adoringly remembered by all Buddhists who
Follow the Dhamma expounded by Samma Sambuddha. Pilgrims trek 1,840 steps yearly to Mihintale to
Venerate the Peak, then named Ambastale;
Enriched by crafts, sculpture, economy, cultural
Heritage, the Sinhala race rose to its zenith of glory. Most Ven. Mahinda Thera is honoured today,
With veneration each Poya day; may a lamp be lit
In every Buddhist home to commemorate the
Holiest day for Buddhists in Sri Lanka! < The Sunday Times >
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