This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Mahayana New Year (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Mahayana New Year is celebrated on January 7th.
Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Mahayana New Year, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as amusing facts you might want to know about Mahayana New Year.
📅 What day is Mahayana New Year 2024?
In 2024, Mahayana New Year is on Saturday, January 7th. It is the 1st Saturday in January; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all intriguing details and facts about January 7, 2023, that you might not be aware of.
On January 7th, Buddhists around the globe will observe Mahayana New Year. Mahayana, a branch of Buddhism, encompasses a range of beliefs and philosophies. It is predominantly followed in Northeast Asia, comprising countries like China, Japan, Tibet, Taiwan, Mongolia, and Korea. Each of these regions has its own distinct customs and traditions when it comes to practicing Mahayana Buddhism.
📜 Mahayana New Year History
Mahayana Buddhists believe that enlightenment, or eternal Nirvana, can be achieved during one’s lifetime. This state of enlightenment is not limited to monks, but can also be attained by lay Buddhist practitioners. The ultimate goal is for everyone to take the opportunity to learn and grow.
The Mahayana New Year is celebrated on different dates in different countries, based on their customs and traditions. Some Mahayana Buddhists observe it on January 1, alongside the Gregorian New Year, while others wait until the January full moon. The occasion involves lengthy prayers and the worship of Buddhist deities. Bathing statues of these deities is also done as a sign of respect. Temples are visited, and hymns are sung to honor the deities. Lighting candles symbolizes happiness and good fortune for the coming year.
The Buddhist New Year is also a time for self-reflection and personal growth. The idea is to become a better version of oneself by learning from past mistakes. Cleaning and beautifying one’s home, as well as giving presents to others, are believed to bring good fortune. The celebrations are lively and joyful, with grand feasts and fireworks at midnight.
✅ Mahayana New Year Facts
🔖 Buddhism has two main branches
Buddhism is a diverse religion that can be categorized into two main branches: Mahayana and Theravada.
🔖 Buddhism is growing fast
Buddhism is presently experiencing rapid growth and is ranked as the fourth fastest-growing religion globally.
🔖 Buddhists don’t use the word “Buddhism”
The term “Buddhism” was coined by Western scholars during the 1830s.
👍 Why Is Mahayana New Year Important
The Mahayana New Year is equally important as the Gregorian New Year. It is one of many New Year’s Eve celebrations held around the world throughout the year!
The celebration is joyful, but it also serves as an opportunity for introspection. Recognizing and correcting one’s shortcomings in order to become a better version of oneself
Buddhism is widely practiced by devotees all around the world. It is a significant philosophy whose teachings have been followed for thousands of years.
🙂 How To Observe Mahayana New Year
⚡ Have a feast
The Buddhist New Year celebration is not fully complete without a feast. Make sure to savor your favorite food alongside your loved ones and express gratitude for all the blessings in your life.
⚡ Praying to the gods
Buddhists express reverence towards their deities and offer prayers to seek blessings and prosperity in the coming year.
⚡ Sing spiritual songs
As a way to show gratitude, you can express your thanks by singing one of the many songs from the Buddhist tradition.
📅 When is Mahayana New Year?
| YEAR | DATE | DAY |
| 2024 | January 7 | Sunday |
| 2025 | January 7 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | January 7 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | January 7 | Thursday |
| 2028 | January 7 | Friday |
Explore all 🔗 January holidays, including 🔗 Religious and other 🔗 Buddhist holidays.
We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about Mahayana New Year. So be sure to check back soon.