Parinirvana Day
The passing of the Buddha into final Nirvana at age 80.
Most Mahayana communities observe Parinirvana Day on February 15, and some on February 8. Theravada Buddhists commemorate the Buddha's passing at Vesak, and in Bhutan it follows the lunar calendar.
When Is Parinirvana Day?
Most Mahayana communities observe Parinirvana Day on February 15, and some on February 8. Theravada Buddhists commemorate the Buddha's passing at Vesak, and in Bhutan it follows the lunar calendar.
Because the Gregorian date changes from year to year, check a calendar published by the tradition or your local community for this year's date.
Why It Matters
Parinirvana Day commemorates the death of the Buddha at Kushinagar, India, traditionally dated around 483 BCE, though many scholars now place it closer to 400 BCE. The term "Parinirvana" means "complete nirvana", the final release from the cycle of rebirth at the end of a fully enlightened life.
How It Is Observed
Meditation retreats, reading of the Mahaparinibbana Sutta, temple services, reflection on mortality and impermanence, gratitude for the Buddha's teachings.
Sacred Text
“"All conditioned things are impermanent": when one sees this with wisdom, one turns away from suffering. This is the path to purification.”
, Dhammapada 20:277 ↗