Lamp Offering signifies to cut ignorance and open up wisdom which everyone of us already posses. As we are all still living in mundane, there are still lots of obstacles in life that are hindering us from
seeing such wisdom. Just like unpolished gem, it cannot shine without being polished, one's wisdom cannot emerge without practice. Meditation is one way. Reading Dharma books, chanting sutra, reciting mantra, prostration and doing offering to create merits are also very good ways to cultivate compassion and soon open up some wisdom. It's very simple act and need not be a Buddhist to practice it. IMO, practising in one's own religion and faith is the best way.
Back to our celebration in Hai Inn Temple Vesak Day's activities. Purification by chanting Buddha's name, after which we had Procession of Lamp (传灯）, this signifies the spreading of Dharma. The Teachings of Buddha, ie the Wisdom, from one person to another.
Our lotus candle lamp is then left for forming a beautiful picture. The word "和平" for World Peace and the word SAMBUDDHASSA, in Pali language, meaning "The Self Enlightened One" (ie the Buddha).
Our day ends with a bowl of hot of noodle which Venerable call it as "Longevity Noodle", but most importantly, the shower of Dharma Bliss we received after the event 法喜充满, Sadhu!
