The Floating Lanterns Ceremony
HONOR THE PAST
REFLECT ON THE PRESENT
EMBRACE THE FUTURE
We send our departed loved ones to their home in Amida Buddha’s Pure Land with beautiful lanterns to light their way. Each handmade lantern is painted by hand with a lotus flower and petals and calligraphed with characters for Namu Amida Butsu (“I take refuge in Amida Buddha”).
At the end of the Obon service, the lanterns are usually retrieved by the donor or Obon dancer and the candles centered in the lantern are lit. The procession is led by the ministers across the temple grounds, around the Buddha, and down to the shoreline where they are placed on rafts and set out to sea. As they float home, we remember our loved ones and show our appreciation for all they have done for us. For many who live on the outer islands or mainland, this annual event is a “homecoming” to gather with family, relatives, friends, and the community.
Due to fire restrictions and safety hazards,
the Lantern Ceremony and Obon will not take place in 2024.
THE HISTORY OF
The Floating Lanterns Ceremony
The toro nagashi, or Floating Lanterns Ceremony, is one of the most beautiful and colorful of the traditional Buddhist observances. In Japan, this auspicious custom has been passed down and practiced for hundreds of years through its rich historical Buddhist tradition.
According to Buddhist legend, on the first day of O-Bon, the departed souls of our loved ones come from Amida Buddha’s Pure Land (Jodo) to visit their homes in this world. To welcome these souls, each family makes a fire called mukae-bi (“welcoming fire”) in front of their home. This light invites the departed souls so that they can safely arrive to their earthly homes. It is during the O-Bon season that we celebrate the “return” of our beloved ones. A service and Bon dance are held at the temple, and prayers and food are offered to ensure the happiness of the departed souls in the “other” world.
On the last day of O-Bon, there is again another fire. This fire, called okuri-bi (“sending-off fire”), is made to send off the departed souls back to the Pure Land. During the toro nagashi, we put the floating lanterns out into the sea. The candlelight of the lanterns symbolizes the “sending-off fire.” As the lanterns sway and float away on the waves, we recall fond memories of our beloved ones. It is with this kind and warm feeling that this traditional custom is observed each year. Leaving a deep impression in our hearts and reflecting on our own life’s journey, we bid farewell to the departed souls and our beloved ones.
Lahaina Jodo Mission is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable organization recognized by the IRS, and all donations are fully tax deductible in accordance with IRS regulations. Federal Tax ID # 99-0267760.