Nirvana Day

This day commemorates Sakyamuni Buddha passing into complete Nirvana, leaving his earthly form behind. Jodo Shinshu followers revere Sakyamuni Buddha because he is the manifestation of Amida Buddha on this earth, so this is an opportunity to show gratitude for the noble teachings that were communicated to humanity through him.

Temples hold Nirvana Day services near this date.

image source: Wikimedia Commons (view source)

BWA (Fujinkai) Dana Day

In 1965, at the World Buddhist Women’s Convention in New York City, delegates from Buddhist Women’s Associations established an annual observance of Dana Day. The observance date was set as the 2nd Sunday in February.

Dana means selfless giving. Monetary collections associated with BWA Dana Day go towards social welfare projects.

See also the Programs page on the Hawaii Federation of Buddhist Women’s Associations website.