09/22/2026
TODAY IS BUDDHA'S RETURN FROM HEAVEN DAY
‘This day is therefore very special. It is said that if we engage in any kind of virtuous action on this day it becomes especially powerful and our merit greatly increases. For example, if we offer one single light offering this action is multiplied to become millions of light offerings.’
-Venerable Geshe Kelsang, on this day in 1991
This day also marks the end of the three-month summer retreat. Out of great compassion for all living beings, Buddha Shakyamuni and his disciples remained indoors as much as possible during the summer to prevent the accidental killing of the many insects that emerge during the warm season. Buddha’s extraordinary example reminds us to generate compassion particularly for animals, who endure many forms of suffering not experienced by humans.
