When Shakyamuni Buddha resolved to realize the end to old age, sickness and death, he sat beneath a Bodhi tree and did not rise until finally, at dawn on December the 8th, a glimmering star caused him to awaken to his own true nature. The enlightenment of Shakyamuni is commemorated around the world by eight days of sesshin, during which particpants sit longer and longer each night, recognizing the unshakable faith and determination of Shakyamuni. Read more »
