Every summer, young and old alike look forward with great anticipation as each temple in the Buddhist community hosts O-Bon services and dances.
Every summer, young and old alike look forward with great anticipation as each temple in the Buddhist community hosts O-Bon services and dances.
In a few weeks, colorfully lit chochin will adorn the many Buddhist temples on the Big Island, heralding O-Bon Season.
The Honpa Hongwanji Hilo Betsuin welcomes everyone in the island community to its annual O-Bon observances slated for July 13-19.
Families and friends gather to honor the memory of loved ones, especially those who passed away since the previous O-Bon. Thus, the opportunity presents itself to have a “joyous gathering” and listen to the Nembutsu Teachings.
Although the popular beginning of O-Bon tells the story of Mokuren, who freed his mother from suffering in the hell of hungry ghosts, Shin Buddhism teaches that all beings become Buddhas, whose great wisdom and compassion continuously seek to liberate all beings with no exception.
Centuries later, adherents continue to acknowledge their ancestors’ numerous sacrifices during the O-Bon season. Many take this time to visit family shrines and gravesites to clean and place fresh water and flowers along with the chochin.
Graveside services are planned for 5 p.m. Monday, July 13, at the Alae Cemetery and Wednesday, July 15, at Homelani Columbarium. First O-Bon services (Hatsu-Bon) are at 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, July 17-18, at the Hilo Betsuin temple. Bon dance follows from 7-10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday in the Sangha Hall.
A Dharma Joyous Gathering (Kangi-E) service takes place Sunday, July 19. The English service is at 9 a.m.; the Japanese service is at 10:30 a.m.
Keynote speaker for all O-Bon services will be the Rev. Bert Sumikawa, resident minister of Moilili Hongwanji and overseeing minister of Kapolei Buddhist Sangha on Oahu.