Saka Dawa

Mahayana Precepts and Prayers

with MaryEllen Kirkpatrick

Wednesday, June 11, 2025
6:00am – 6:45am PDT (Pacific Daylight Time)
online only

Program Category: Buddhist Prayers and Practices

We are using the Zoom video conferencing system for this event. Please register below to receive your online access information.


By registering for this event, you understand that the sessions may be recorded and published in the public domain (such as YouTube), and consent to this process.

Saka Dawa Duchen, one of the four great holy days in the Tibetan calendar, marks pivotal moments in the life of Shakyamuni Buddha—each a powerful display of enlightened activity for the benefit of all sentient beings.

On this sacred day, the merit generated by virtuous actions is said to be magnified 300 million times, as it commemorates Shakyamuni Buddha’s three major life events, according to in the vinaya text Treasure of Quotations and Logic.

Observing the eight Mahayana precepts on Saka Dawa is a profound way to cultivate merit and deepen one’s commitment to ethical living. Together, we will take the eight Mahayana precepts before a Buddha image—whether on your altar or on the screen. You are encouraged to reflect on which precepts you can sincerely uphold for 24 hours, honoring your personal discernment in this meaningful practice.

The practice includes preliminary prayers, and mantra recitation, which is an integral element of the practice. Whether you chant aloud or visualize reciting along with the chant leader, choose the approach that fosters clarity and sincerity in your mind. We will end with Morning Prayers.

Everyone is welcome to join.

Lama Zopa Rinpoche
Lama Zopa Rinpoche taking precepts from the altar before giving precepts, Kopan Monastery, Nepal, May 25, 2020. Photo by Ven. Roger Kunsang.

Registration

Registration is required to receive your online access information.

This is a free event. Donations are appreciated.