Happy Choekor Duchen

Today, Tibetan and Vajrayana Buddhist followers commemorate the day when the Buddha first taught the Four Noble Truths in Varanasi, following his enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodhgaya, Bihar.

It’s worth noting that Theravada tradition marks this day differently, reflecting slight variations between Pali and Sanskrit followers in terms of the timing of Buddha’s first discourse in Varanasi, India.

Out of his boundless compassion, the Buddha illuminated the path to a meaningful life and the complete cessation of suffering, referred to as “Nirvana” in Buddhist teachings. The Buddha is revered as a religious teacher, founder, and a symbol of profound wisdom, often depicted in a seated posture of meditation that embodies his teachings. Unlike other traditions that employ weapons like Trishul and Chakra to overcome evil, the Buddha triumphed over all challenges through the transformative power of compassion and love.

Happy Choekor Duchen!

©Satipatthana Magazine