"Lantern floating is a time-honored Buddhist rite, originating in Japan, conducted in order to pay respects to our ancestors and to comfort the spirits of the deceased. During Toro-Nagashi candle-lit lanterns are individually set afloat on the ocean.
The lanterns carry prayers for those who have sacrificed their lives in war, victims of water-related accidents, natural disasters, famine and disease, as well as loved ones and ancestors who have passed away. Through the lantern floating ceremony, the sincere prayers of everyone are united… prayers for a future in which harmony exists among all people
The lanterns carry prayers for those who have sacrificed their lives in war, victims of water-related accidents, natural disasters, famine and disease, as well as loved ones and ancestors who have passed away. Through the lantern floating ceremony, the sincere prayers of everyone are united… prayers for a future in which harmony exists among all people
regardless of one’s race, religion or culture.
Because of this, Lantern Floating Hawai'i has become accepted as more than just a Buddhist tradition, more than something only related to Hawaii in nature. It is a human thing."
Because of this, Lantern Floating Hawai'i has become accepted as more than just a Buddhist tradition, more than something only related to Hawaii in nature. It is a human thing."
On memorial day we had the opportunity to attend the Lantern Floating Ceremony or Toro-Nagashi at Ala Moana Beach Park. It was one of the neatest things we have experienced here in Hawai'i. Lantern Floating originated in Japan and is a Buddhist tradition. Because of the strong Japanese influence here in Hawai'i they now have combined that tradition with the American Memorial Day holiday. This particular celebration happens only here in Hawai'i. We went early so that we could put names onto a lantern to be set out on the sea. We put the names of my Grandparents; Grandpa Howard, Grandma Mamie and Grandpa Buck as well as my Aunt Collette. After writing the names on the lantern Isabelle was interviewed by a reporter about what she thought of the event. It was so cute to hear her responses to the reporters questions.
Imagine thousands of these lanterns on the water. It was beautiful. 
Isabelle and I in front of the jumbo tron. This was really the only way to see what was going on up on the stage.
There were over 40,000 people in attendance!
Once the lanterns were set out it was easier to get down to the water. Taking pictures was tricky though as there was no flash photography allowed
after sunset- most of my pictures are not too clear.
The whole thing was very spiritual and something we look forward to doing again with the older kids next year.
1 comments:
That is so pretty! Looks like you guys are always on vacation over there!!! Too much fun!!!
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