Binara Full Moon Poya commemorates the establishment of the Bhikkhuni Order, when the Buddha ordained his foster mother Mahāpajāpati Gotami and 500 women. This completed the Fourfold Sangha (monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen). The event marked a historic step in recognizing women's spiritual capacity, a legacy still honored in Sri Lanka today.

When is Binara Full Moon Poya Day?

Binara Full Moon Poya Day is celebrated on the full moon day in September.

The following is the list of Binara Full Moon Poya Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Binara Full Moon Poya Day?

Mahāpajāpati Gotami, the Buddha's foster mother and aunt (who raised him after Queen Māyā's death), was deeply devoted to the Buddha and his teachings. Together with 500 women from the Sakya clan, she requested to be ordained into the Sangha. Initially, the Buddha refused her request, concerned about the challenges women might face as monastics.

Ven. Ananda Thera, the Buddha's attendant and one of his closest disciples, intervened. He respectfully questioned the Buddha: were women capable of achieving the same spiritual attainments (enlightenment, arahantship) as men if ordained?

The Buddha confirmed that women were indeed capable of reaching the highest spiritual goals. Following this, the Buddha permitted the ordination of women.

Mahāpajāpati Gotami and her companions became the first Bhikkhunis (nuns). With their ordination, the Fourfold Sangha was completed: Bhikkhus (monks), Bhikkhunis (nuns), Upasakas (laymen) and Upasikas (laywomen). This was a groundbreaking step in religious history, affirming the role of women in spiritual life.

The Bhikkhuni Order flourished in India and Sri Lanka for many centuries. Sri Lanka, in particular, became a center of Bhikkhuni training. Sri Lankan nuns later helped re-establish the order in other countries.