Arahant Mahinda Archives

The Significance of Poson Poya Day in Sri Lanka-by Kalani-eLanka Poson Poya Day, celebrated annually in June, is one of the most important Buddhist holidays in Sri Lanka. It commemorates the introduction of Buddhism to the island, an event that has profoundly shaped the nation’s culture, religion, and social structure. Here’s why Poson Poya Day holds such a special place in the hearts of Sri Lankans. The central significance of Poson Poya Day lies in its commemoration of the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. In 247 BCE, Arahant Mahinda, the son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka, traveled to Sri Lanka and introduced Buddhism to King Devanampiya Tissa. This event, which took place at Mihintale near Anuradhapura, is considered a pivotal moment in Sri Lankan history. The conversion of the king and his people to Buddhism marked the beginning of a new era for the island, influencing its spiritual and ...

Significance of Poson to Sri Lankans – By Parakrama Gunasekara Source : Qld Sri Lankan Newsletter – Dæhæna – June 2023 ‘Poson’ falls on the full moon day of June, and it is exactly one lunar month after ‘Vesak’ full moon day, the most significant day of the Buddhist calendar. For Sri Lankan Buddhists the Poson full moon day is equally significant and is well commemorated. Upon the success of the 3rd Buddhist Council, Emperor Dharmasoka decided to send delegations to nine other countries to spread the message of the Buddha and chose his son Arahant Mahinda to be sent as special emissary to Sri Lanka along with five other Arahants and a layman. Arahant Mahinda’s arrival was to coincide with the reign of King Devanampiyatissa (307-260 BC) who is believed to have had a strong relationship with his Indian counterpart. On that Poson full moon day, the King was on ...