On February 18, 2024, the ninth day of the first lunar month of the year, coinciding with the birthday of the Buddhist Dharma protector Śakra (Śakro devānām indraḥ), also known as Dìshìtiān in Chinese, Lingyin Temple in Hangzhou strictly followed the ancient tradition of the monastic community and held the Chinese New Year Offerings to Buddhas & Celestial Guardians Dharma Service.
At four o’clock in the morning, the Lingyin Sangha gathered at the Mahavira Hall, where the presiding Dharma master offered incense to the Buddha and sprinkled purifying water around the altar. The congregation followed the ritual by reciting scriptures and mantras, welcoming the Three Jewels and various heavenly guardians to descend to the altar and to mercifully accept various offerings of incense, flowers, and food. May the Three Jewels and heavenly guardians have compassion for all sentient beings, engage in the work of the Buddha, safeguard national peace, ensure the well-being of the people, promote the spread of the Buddhist teachings, and uphold the true Dharma!
