Visakhas

Visakhas is a term that refers to the devotees of the Theravada Buddhist tradition. The name derives from Vesak, the most important Buddhist holiday, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha. Visakhas are followers of the Dharma, the teachings of the Buddha, and adhere to the Vinaya, the monastic code of conduct. Their practice centers around the cultivation of wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline through meditation and mindfulness.

The core principles guiding Visakhas include the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which aim to alleviate suffering and achieve enlightenment. They observe various Buddhist festivals and rituals throughout the year, with Vesak being the most significant. Many Visakhas engage in acts of merit-making, such as offering alms to monks and nuns, supporting monasteries, and participating in charitable activities, believing these actions contribute to positive karma.

In Theravada Buddhism, the role of monks and nuns is central, and lay followers, the Visakhas, provide support for the monastic community. Lay practice often involves a commitment to the five precepts: abstaining from killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and intoxicants. The ultimate goal for a Visakha is to attain Nirvana, a state of liberation from the cycle of rebirth and suffering.