What is Vesak?
Vesak is a religious monument of great significance to the devotees. Most monuments are located in the dimension of space, and on the earth. Pilgrims visit them in large numbers, even from distant lands, because they inspire them, elevate their spirits, and remind them of the teachings of their religion.
Vesak is such a monument, but it is one located in the dimension of time. Pilgrims do not go to it. It comes to them seasonally, like summer, winter or the rain. Vesak visits them during the month of May, with the waxing of the moon, and inspires, elevates, and enlightens them about the facts of life.
Vesak is comparable to the Christmas of the Christians; yet it is not exactly analogous to it. For the Buddhists, it is not a season for merriment such as eating, drinking, singing and dancing. It is, for the Buddhists, a season for serious religious observances, pilgrimages and meditation retreats.
Vesak is a time when all Buddhists become rejuvenated by reflecting on the Buddha, his wisdom, and his immense love for all beings. Throughout the month of May, and especially on the full moon day of May, they begin to express the glory of the Buddha and his enlightening message to the world, through vivid visual displays and solemn devotional ceremonies that mesmerize, captivate, and fascinate everyone. All those who come to witness this ostentatious display, begin to see the picturesque scenery created by the exquisite Vesak decorations, and hear the sonorous sounds of songs, sermons, and rhythmic chants constantly reaching their ears from loud speakers, carols, pageants and pandols. They also enjoy the sweet smelling perfumes of fragrant flowers and incense that enter their faithfully receptive noses. They even begin to taste Vesak from the free food fares (dansal) that are given out of charity to all comers in friendly fellowship, and they also touch the beautiful resplendent creations of Vesak with their own hands. Everyone absorbs and experiences the magnificent grandeur and majesty of the Buddha and his teachings through all their senses. Thus Vesak is a magnificent ceremonial experience for all visitors and participants, because it tantalizes them through the grandeur of Vesak by catering to all the six senses.