Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our Seven-day Meditation Retreat events couldn't be held in person for the past three years. Instead, we organized online meditation events where many participants joined us. However, we kept hoping for the day when we could gather again in person. Finally, in May 2023, we were able to have the Seven-Day Meditation Retreat at Wat Phra That Doi Sacket in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Wat Phra That Doi Sacket is a beautiful temple with a rich history. It holds significant Buddhist sites, such as a stupa containing the Buddha's hair and footprint. Being one of the ten royal temples in Chiang Mai, it represents Buddhism in the region.
This was our second time organizing the retreat at this temple. The first time was in October 2019, and it was a great success. We received tremendous support from the Abbot, monastic community, and volunteers. We were thrilled to be back at the temple for the retreat, and this time, around 200 Buddhist practitioners, coming from mainland China, Hong Kong, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and Malaysia, participated.
During the seven days of the retreat, our dharma teacher gave daily two-hour lectures on the Vimalakirti Nirdesha Sutra. Participants gained valuable knowledge and practical methods for their Buddhist practices. These experiences will guide and support them in their lives and inspire them to benefit others and spread Buddhism.
The retreat was a great success, and we dedicate the merit gained from it to a peaceful world and the flourishing of Buddhaharma.
As part of the initiation ritual, our Dharma teacher presents an inspiring poem, bestowing upon us an auspicious wish for this sacred event. May his words resonate with clarity, illuminating our path, guiding us towards wisdom and enlightenment, as we embark on this spiritual ascent.
“At Wat Phra That Doi Sacket, we have gathered anew to seek the Buddha's wisdom,
The past three years were naught but sorrowful sighs,
Yet the illumining awareness is always kindled in us,
Transcending obstacles, let us meditate on emptiness.”
