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Salient. Victoria University Student Newspaper. Vol 35 no. 8. 27 April 1972

[Introduction]

Image of tildes

Since about 1926 Buddhists in the west, particularly London, have held Wesak, the Festival of the May Full Moon, as their major celebration, forgetting sectarian differences and joining together for this great occasion. It seems fitting that at this time we should direct our thoughts towards the Buddha and his unique gift to humanity. We are told that Siddharta Guatama the future Buddha was born on the border of Nepal and India during the Vaisaka (April- May) period between 563 and 556 B.C. The story of his life is well known, as are his teachings, many of which are being corroborated today by modern science. For example, he asserted the existance of antimatter, a concept which holds out great promise for the future, when he said "There exists a not-born, not-become, not-made, not-compounded; and if this did not exist, it would not be possible to save oneself from what is born, become, made, compounded".

The teachings of the Buddha have, inevitably it would seem, given rise to various schools - too numerous to mention. Without becoming involved in these and their differences, it is possible to acknowledge with gratitude the unique qualities of Buddhist teaching and thought. Its enormous range will encompass and tolerate all matter of thought, and all methods of treading the way. "The ways to the Goal are as many as the lives of men". This Wesak Taurus Full Moon, April 29th, you can celebrate the Festival by reading and thinking about the Buddha and his contribution to the world of thought. This mantram may be used, if you wish.