Significance of Merrymaking

Merrymaking, according to Theravada, is an activity organized by the three sons of a wealthy merchant. This celebration included festivities that notably featured the use of garlands. The event highlights cultural practices and traditions associated with joy and community within the Theravada perspective, emphasizing the importance of such gatherings in social and spiritual life.

Synonyms: Celebration, Festivity, Revelry, Entertainment, Fun, Enjoyment

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Merrymaking'

Buddhism Books

Merrymaking in Buddhism involves celebratory activities, exemplified by the three sons of a wealthy merchant, who engaged in festivities adorned with garlands, highlighting joy and community within Buddhist teachings.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6

(1) The activity planned by the three sons of the rich merchant, which involved celebrating and using garlands.[1]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Jain concept of 'Merrymaking'

Jainism Books

Merrymaking in Jainism signifies joyful participation, exemplified by the citizens of Hastinapura celebrating Mahabalakumar's birth, reflecting a communal spirit and the importance of festivities in promoting harmony and happiness within the community.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)

(1) The joyful engagement by the citizens of Hastinapura during the celebrations after Mahabalakumar's birth.[2]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.