Significance of Vassa
Vassa is a significant term in Theravada Buddhism, referring to the three-month rainy season during which bhikkhus observe strict monastic rules and often remain in one location. This period is dedicated to spiritual practice, deeper meditation, and study of teachings, including the Abhidhamma. Traditionally commencing after Esala Poya, Vassa promotes discipline and reflection among monks. It is a time for intensified practice and community engagement, preventing travel unless necessary, as monks focus on their spiritual refinement during this retreat.
Synonyms: Rainy season, Monsoon season, Wet season
In Dutch: Vassa; In Finnish: Vassa; In Spanish: Vaso
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Vassa'
Vassa in Buddhism represents a three-month rainy season retreat for monks, emphasizing focused meditation and study while remaining stationary. It includes observing monastic rules and deepening spiritual practice, facilitating a period of intensive personal growth and learning.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A retreat period observed by Buddhist monks during the rainy season, wherein they often stay in one place for deeper meditation and teaching.[1] (2) A period in which a bhikkhu lives in a monastery and engages in strict observance of the monastic code; here Upasena is mentioned regarding his duration in bhikkhuhood.[2] (3) The term referring to the three-month rains-retreat or monastic retreat observed by bhikkhus and bhikkhunis.[3] (4) The rainy season retreat during which the Buddha and his monks remained in one place.[4] (5) A traditional period for observing rains and retreat during which the Buddha preached the Abhidhamma.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A three-month period of monastic retreat observed by monks, traditionally during the rainy season.[6] (2) The Pali term for the rainy season during which monks would traditionally stay in one place due to heavy rains.[7] (3) The rainy season retreat during which monks traditionally reside in one place for focused practice.[8]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) A period of the rainy season retreat for monks, during which they typically stay in one place for meditation and study.[9] (2) A monastic retreat that Bhikkhus must observe, during which they should not travel unless under specific circumstances.[10] (3) A period during which Bhikkhus stay in one place for spiritual practice.[11]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) Vassa is the period that Venerable Acharn Mun kindly helped Venerable Acharn Brom spend together with him, or that he spent in Wat Suddhavasa.[12] (2) The rainy season retreat for Buddhist monks during which they intensify their meditation and study.[13]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The rainy season during which specific monastic rules and observances are followed by bhikkhus.[14]
The concept of Vassa in local and regional sources
Vassa is an annual retreat for Buddhist monks, initiated after Esala Poya, aimed at enhancing spiritual discipline through dedicated practice and reflection during the monsoon season, fostering a deeper commitment to their faith.
From: Buddhist Ceremonies and Rituals of Sri Lanka
(1) The annual rains retreat for Buddhist monks that begins after Esala Poya, promoting spiritual discipline.[15]