Every year millions of people hold special holidays and observances to remember the founders of various faiths across the world.
Specifically, some of these events are designed to commemorate the spiritual “ascension” or death (depending on a person’s view) of the founder of a particular faith.
Of course the best-known occasions in the United States are Good Friday and Easter, which represent the culmination of the Lent season observed by Christians from late February to early April.
According to Christian scriptures, Jesus was arrested on orders of the Pharisees for proclaiming himself as the son of God and king of the Jews. Jesus was sent to the Roman Governor Pontius Pilate, who allowed a crowd to choose execution on a cross for Jesus.
On Good Friday Christians take time to remember the crucifixion of Christ, then on Easter they celebrate what the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John describe as his “rise” from death and ultimate ascension into heaven.
Here is a quick look at observances that highlight the departures of other individuals who established some of the world’s major faiths:
Islam — Muslims observe Lailat al Miraj, a festival celebrating the Isra and Mi’raj.
The Isra and Mi’raj represent two parts of a journey taken by the Prophet Muhammad, founder of the Islamic faith, shortly before his death in 622 AD.
According to the Koran, Muhammad was visited by two angels while sleeping, and they purified his and filled him with knowledge and faith.
The Prophet then traveled from Mecca (in Saudi Arabia) to Jerusalem (in Israel) in a single night on a winged creature called Buraq. From Jerusalem he ascended into heaven, where he was greeted by earlier prophets and eventually Allah (G-d).
Most Muslims celebrate Lailat al Miraj (this year in July) by offering prayers, sharing the story of the Prophet’s final journey with children, illuminating cities with lights and candles, and serving food and treats.
Buddhism — Many Buddhists observe Parinirvana Day, also known simply as Nirvana Day.
Buddhism was established by the Buddha, previously known as an Indian prince named Siddhartha Gautama.
According to tradition, the Buddha died at the age of 80 around 543 BC, after obtaining his “enlightenment” following 40 years of sharing popular teachings. He died in a state of meditation and attained nirvana, or release from the cycle of death and rebirth.
Buddhists celebrate Paranirvana Day because they believe that after obtaining enlightenment, the Buddha achieved freedom from physical existence and its challenges.
Most Buddhists celebrate the day by meditating or going to temples or monasteries.
They reflect on the inevitability of their own future death, and remember loved ones who have recently passed away. Meditations are offered to support those loved ones wherever they might be now. Buddhists believe that all things in life are transient, and loss is to be accepted rather than a cause of grief.
Parinirvana Day is treated as a special occasion in monasteries. Special food is prepared and people bring presents such as clothes, household goods or money.
Sikhism — Sikhism is a faith that is observed mostly by believers in India and Pakistan, although it also has followers across the world.
Most historians agree that Guru Nanak Dev, founder of the Sikh religion, died in September 1539 shortly after naming a new guru. Some say Nanak actually announced that the time of his death had arrived and retreated to a tree, where he died quietly while sitting in the lotus position.
Every September thousands of Sikh pilgrims, mostly from India and Europe, arrive in Pakistan to observe the anniversary of Nanak’s death at a shrine near his grave. The day is mostly spent remembering the teachings of the great guru.
Baha’i — In November Bahais around the world observe the Holy Day of Ascension to remember the physical death (and spiritual ascension) of Abdul-Baha. Shortly after being knighted by the British for his humanitarian efforts, Abdul-Baha died at age 77 in 1921 in Haifa, which is located in present day Israel.
More than 10,000 mourners representing diverse faiths and cultures arrived in Israel for his funeral, which many believe was the largest modern memorial service the “Holy Land” had ever witnessed.
For the Holy Day of Ascension, there are no prescribed ceremonies, but gatherings are usually held for prayers and devotional readings.
