.svg)
Bhumchu
 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (August 2019) |
 | This article includes a list of references, related reading or external links, but its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations. (June 2020) |
| Bumchu | |
|---|---|
| Observed by | Tibet and Bhutan |
| Type | Buddhist |
| Date | 22nd day of the ninth lunar month |
Bhumchu (Bhum is a pot, Chum is water) is a Buddhist festival, which on the Tibetan lunar calendar is held on the 14th and 15th day of the first month, which is between February and March on the Gregorian calendar.[1] The Bhum or Sacred vase, according to Zigpo Lingpa, is made out of various kinds of sacred soil, water and five kinds of precious jewels found in sacred lands of India, Odiyana and Zahor. In Sikkim the Tashiding Monastery is recognized as a sacred place. It is believed that this place, Dakkar Tashiding in the center of four sacred caves, Sharchog Bephug in the east, Khandozangphu in the south, Dechenphug in the west and Lhari Nyingphug in the north, is meant to free you from the suffering of hell. At the start of the year the vase is opened and the Lama or monk determines the future. "If the water is to the brim, it foretells a year in which peace and prosperity will prevail. If the water is over the brim and is spilling, it signifies a year with natural disaster and disturbances. If the water level is low or almost dry it signifies famine." The celebration of "The Holy Water Vase" started under the rule of King Trisong Deutsonin Tibet, Guru Padmasambhava." It is believed that the water overflowed from the vase as a sign of a good omen and there was an earthquake. The four guardian deities of Dharma and the gods of thirty three heavens showered flowers from the sky." This ritual is one of the holiest in Sikkim. From midnight until the next day thousands are seen waiting to receive the holy water. "A part of the holy water is distributed amongst the gathering of devotes and the pot is replenished with river water and sealed at the end of the festival to be opened only in the during next Bumchu festival." It is said that by taking a drop of the Bumchu water enlightenment is achieved and all of the evil spirits and distress are removed. It is said one would somehow attain a form of Buddhahood or be born at a higher ranking in the next life. In 2016, it will be on 19–20 March.[2]
References[edit]
- ↑ http://traditionscustoms.com/festivals/bhumchu-festival
- ↑ "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 11 August 2015.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
 | This article about a religious festival is a stub. You can help Bharatpedia by expanding it. |
 | This Tibetan Buddhism-related article is a stub. You can help Bharatpedia by expanding it. |
  |