Both the Mid-Autumn Festival and the birthday of Bodhisattva Moonlight in Buddhism fall on September 17 this year. On this special occasion, Lingyin Temple in Hangzhou held the 2024 Mid-Autumn Tea Ceremony, gathering the Lingyin Sangha and Buddhist devotees from all directions together. They worshiped the moon, prayed for blessings, enjoyed music and tea while celebrating the reunion festival amidst the uplifting chants and the elegant sounds of traditional Chinese musical instruments.
At 7:00 pm, under the bright light of the silver moon and the refreshing dew of autumn, the Mid-Autumn Tea Ceremony commenced with the moon worship ritual. As the fragrant sandalwood incense filled the air and the clear sounds of bells resonated, the Yunlin volunteers, led by the Buddhist masters, followed the Buddhist rituals and chanted the Medicine Buddha Mantra and Praises to Bodhisattva Moonlight, sincerely worshiping the Bodhisattva and praying for the moonlight to shine universally, bringing coolness to the world. They dedicated the merits of their prayers to all sentient beings to eliminate their karma and enhance their wisdom, and to remove obstacles and increase blessings.
With the cool breeze and bright moon, the subsequent evening event featured the fragrance of tea as well as a variety of performances, creating a lively interactive atmosphere. The audience, while reflecting on Buddhist teachings and expressing gratitude for their connections, also enjoyed the enrichment of music and poetry, experiencing the unique charm of Chinese traditional culture. Around 9:00 pm, the tea ceremony concluded successfully with blessings for the prosperity of the motherland and the increase of wisdom and blessings for all sentient beings.
