Obon is an annual Buddhist celebration in which families, especially Japanese Buddhists, honor the return of their ancestors’ spirits to the mortal realm. Celebrated for hundreds of years, Obon is also known as Ghost Festival, Festival of Souls, or Festival of Lanterns. Buddhist temples schedule Obon celebrations during the summer months, and the event lasts three days.
Obon is rooted in the story of a monk freeing his mother from the Realm of Hungry Ghosts. The celebration commemorates all deceased ancestors and welcomes them back to Earth. The event includes a special dance called the Bon Dance and the lighting of lanterns.
As Christians engage with their Buddhist friends, being informed about Obon can help guide your conversation as you seek to encourage your friends toward Christ.
Buddhists believe a monk named Mogallana used meditation to see his mother in the afterlife. He received a vision of her suffering in the Realm of Hungry Ghosts.
Mogallana asked the Buddha how to free his mother, and Buddha told him to give to monks and practice compassion.
Once his mother was free, Mogallana did a dance called the Bon Dance. This dance is a central component of Obon.
During Obon, Buddhists reunite with family and friends to remember those who have passed. The festival is recognized in Japanese communities worldwide. Every Buddhist temple celebrates Obon uniquely, but fireworks, dancing, carnival games, and local food are often a part of the celebration.
To honor and welcome back the spirits of the dead, families clean gravesites, leave out food offerings, and light lanterns to guide the spirits home. Participants also leave out food offerings for the dead who do not have a family welcoming them back. Finally, the celebration ends with hanging lanterns with the family crest or leaving floating lanterns in a river to send off the spirits.
The central theme of compassion in the story of Obon and the gospel can help you engage your friends as the holiday approaches. Buddhists believe the Buddha advised Mogallana to have compassion and give to monks so he could save his mother from an eternity of suffering. As Christians, we know Jesus Christ had compassion on all, gave his life for all, and this final act saves anyone who believes. Mogallana did something in an attempt to save his mother, but Jesus did something that offers salvation to mankind. Jesus’ actions impact all. Share with your friends how Jesus’ love-filled sacrifice was made with them in mind.
“And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.” -2 Corinthians 5:15
Secondly, Buddhists seek self-perfection to acquire nirvana, an enlightened state free from desire. When you talk to your friends about Obon, share about Jesus’ perfect life and how no other man can achieve perfection.
“He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.’” -1 Peter 2:22
“… for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God … .” -Romans 3:23
There is still hope. Even without perfection, we can all have peace through Jesus.
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” -Philippians 4:7
Lastly, Buddhists value stories. Share your story about what led you to believe that Jesus died for you and how, despite your imperfection, he has given you peace. Pray that your friends will see that they are included in the promises Jesus, and through Him, they can have a secure eternity in Heaven and peace on Earth.