Letchworth Buddhist Temple
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Published: 01 February 2011
Navam Full Moon Day, commemorates several special significant events. The appointment of Sariputta and Moggallana as the two main disciples.. Venarable Sariputhra became famous for his profound knowledge (Pragna) and Venarable Moggallana for his spiritual powers (Iddhi).
Also on this day, twenty years after his Enlightenment, the Buddha decided to introduce the Vinaya Code (Code of Conduct) for the Bhikkhu Sangha for their own wellbeing. The Buddha held the first council for his Sanghas at Veluvanarama in Rajagriha. Approximately 1340 Bhikkus attended and The Buddha advised the Bhikkus to comply with the set rules .
It was on this day the Buddha predetermined that he would pass away in three months time, and he informed Mara of his decision. The Buddha was almost 80 years old and was resting at Chapala Chetiya Gardens in Vaishala. The Mara visited him and requested him to pass away. The Buddha accepted this request and announced that in three months time he would Parinibbana on Wesak Full Moon Day. He kept his promise and attained Parinibbana on the day that he decided..
