Saturday, March 21, 2026 – 3:00 PM EST
Sunday, March 22, 2026 – 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM EST
Join us for Boun Pha Vet at Wat Lao Buddhavong: The Story of Buddha’s Past Life
Before attaining Enlightenment, our Buddha Gautama spent countless lifetimes cultivating the 30 Perfections required for Buddhahood. His journey culminated in his final birth as Prince Vessantara, the embodiment of ultimate generosity.
The next Buddha, Metteyya, has conveyed a message through the Arahant Malaya: “Whoever wishes to be part of my Sāsana should first complete listening to the Vessantara Jataka, observe the five precepts, and abstain from all bad actions.”
Begin each morning with the recitation of the Vessantara Jataka, one of the most revered tales in Buddhist tradition. This epic story follows Prince Vessantara, whose boundless compassion and selflessness exemplify dāna (generosity). As crown prince, he gave away the kingdom’s sacred elephant, sparking outrage among his people and leading to his exile. Alongside his wife and two children, he retreated into the forest, where his commitment to selflessness was tested to its fullest — offering even his own children and beloved wife for the greater good.
Boun Pha Vet serves as a profound reminder of self-sacrifice, compassion, and the path to enlightenment, inspiring us all to cultivate generosity in our own lives.
