| Obon season is a time to express our gratitude to loved ones who have passed on before us. Without them, we would not be who we are today, due to the basic principle of interdependence. Since we are all influenced by a countless number of beings, our interconnections, and therefore our debt of gratitude, is without bounds. Thus, temples hold an Obon memorial service to allow people to pay tribute to the departed. The Obon Festival (also known as Bon Odori, Kangi-e or Gathering of Joy), usually held separately from the Obon memorial service, is a time of gratitude, giving, and joy in the Truth of Life. It may seem ironic that this “Gathering of Joy” is a response to the death of loved ones, but, this perspective is one that is engendered if one is able to truly hear the Teachings of the Buddha. While our ordinary mind is overwhelmed by the grief and loss of a loved one, the wise and compassionate words of the Buddha supports our hearts with an expanded reality. Our sadness is balanced by memories of love and support given to us by those who have passed on. The sadness of observing the end of a linear life, is balanced by this Obon dance that symbolizes the cyclic nature of all life. Each life must end, but our recognition that our life is the result of the efforts of others, inspires us to continue this perpetual cycle. The dancing begins and ends with a short Buddhist reflection. Participants gather in rings around a yagura, a central raised platform, and dance to the accompaniment of singing and taiko drums. The folk dances usually tell stories of traditional occupations such as fishing and farming. Everyone is encouraged to join in with the seasoned dancers as they circle around the yagura, often wearing colorful yukata (summer kimono) or happi coats representing various area temples. It doesn’t matter whether you are Buddhist or not, whether you are new to Bon odori or whether you have “two left feet.” The important thing is to leave your ego behind and simply express your joy and gratitude for life through the dance. Just dance. Just BE, in every moment, and you will feel true fulfillment and pure, ego-less joy. **This explanation of the meaning of Obon and Bon Odori is a mixture of excerpts from "Obon" by Rev. Dr. Kenji Akahoshi, our temple's resident minister, and "What is Obon" by Rev. Patti Usuki of the San Fernanado Valley Hongwanji Buddhist Temple. |
| OBON and BON ODORI -- The Meaning |