2021
The 90-day Rains Retreat is an annual retreat whose origins date back to the time of the Buddha. It is a time for Buddhist monastics to deepen their studies, practice, healing, and transformation.
In Plum Village, we had the chance to practice as a Manyfold Sangha (monastic and lay siblings), supporting one another on the path of cultivation of our Understanding and Love. We feel honored for the opportunity of living together and learn so much from each other’s insights and transformations. The Rains Retreat Closing Ceremony celebrates this enriching communion between monastics and lay practitioners.
The Prajñā Drum announces the beginning of the ceremony. 
In Hinduism, the right-facing symbol is called swastika, symbolizing surya (“sun”), prosperity and good luck, while the left-facing symbol is called sauwastika, symbolising night or tantric aspects of Kali. In Jainism, a swastika is the symbol for Suparshvanatha – the seventh of 24 Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers and saviours), while in Buddhism it symbolises the auspicious footprints of the Buddha. 
Offering incense. 
Offering the Incense of our Hearts. 
May it be fragrant as the Earth herself. 
Reflecting Careful Effort and Wholehearted Awareness. 
May it be fragrant as the Earth herself. 
Touching Of The Earth. 
Bowing in Gratitude 
Touching Of The Earth. 
Bowing in Gratitude 
Touching Of The Earth. 
Chanting the Heart Sutra (Prajñāpāramitāhṛdaya). 
Chanting the Heart Sutra (Prajñāpāramitāhṛdaya). 
Chanting together. 
The Insight that Brings Us to the Other Shore. 
Chanting the Heart Sutra (Prajñāpāramitāhṛdaya). 
We are the manifestation of Thầy (our teacher). 
We are the manifestation of Thầy (our teacher). 
Chanting the Heart Sutra (Prajñāpāramitāhṛdaya). 
A gesture of gratitude from the Lay Community. 
A gesture of gratitude from the Lay Community. 
The Manyfold Sangha together as one.
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Disclaimer: The images or video that has been posted may show members of the community physically close and not wearing masks within the boundaries of Plum Village. This is because the whole community has been closed to the public and have been living in confinement since March 2020 and therefore the risk of transmitting the Covid-19 virus to each other is very low. For more information.
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