O-Higan, Spring Equinox, Observance & Potluck

I shall show you how the Dhamma is similar to a raft, being for the purpose of crossing over, not for the purpose of grasping.

~ Buddha Sakyamuni

Ohigan (お彼岸) is a Buddhist holiday celebrated during both the Spring and Autumnal Equinox. The etymology of Ohigan means “the other or that shore of Sanzu River”, which is a common euphemism used in Buddhist literature to refer to Enlightenment. One crosses from this shore of ignorance and suffering to the other shore of Enlightenment and peace.

In the Alagaddupama Sutta of the Pali Canon the Buddha uses a simile of a person constructing a raft to cross one shore to the other, symbolizing realization or Enlightenment.

gate gate pāragate pārasaṃgate bodi svāhā
Gone, gone, gone beyond, everyone gone beyond [to the Other Shore]

~ Enlightenment Hail

Emphasis on Ohigan is the teaching of the Six Perfections, as well as a renewed resolve to reach Enlightenment.
So, join with Reverend Thompson- Osho, sangha congregation members and guests of the Sarasota Zen Center– Buddhist temple in observance of the Spring O-Higan this coming Sunday March 20th, 2016.

Time Dharma reading– 9:30 AM to 9:50 AM Zazenkai Service– 10 AM to 10:50 AM Potluck 11 AM to 1 PM

A vegetarian brunch potluck follows the ceremony. Please bring your favorite vegetarian dish to share with others. Serving size should be enough for at least four. Tea and water will be served.