Q. In ancient Indian Buddhist monasteries, a ceremony called Pavarana used to be held. It was the
(a) Occasion to elect the Sanghaparinayaka and two speakers one on Dhamma and the other on Vinaya
(b) Confession by monks of their offences committed during their stay in the monasteries during the rainy season
(c) Ceremony of initiation of new person into the Buddhist Sangha in which the head is shaved an when yellow robes are offered
(d) Gathering of Buddhist monks on the next day to the full moon day of Ashadha when they take up affixed abode for the next four months or rainy season.
Ans: (b) Confession by monks of their offences committed during their stay in the monasteries during the rainy season
Explanation: The correct answer is (b) Confession by monks of their offenses committed during their stay in the monasteries during the rainy season.
Pavarana is a significant ceremony in the Theravada Buddhist tradition that takes place at the end of the rainy season retreat, also known as Vassa. During this ceremony, the monks gather together, and each monk confesses any offenses or transgressions committed during their stay in the monasteries throughout the retreat period. This confession allows the monks to purify their minds and reestablish harmony within the monastic community. The Pavarana ceremony plays an important role in maintaining discipline and fostering spiritual growth among the Buddhist monks.
