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Obon observances to honor ancestral spirits, including dances and memorial services ("bon mairi"), will be held at the Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin, 1727 Pali Highway, from Friday through July 13.
The Japanese term "Obon" is an abbreviation of the Sanskrit word "ullumbana," referring to the suffering and pain of hanging "upside down," according to the Jodo Shinsho sect’s Goji newsletter. "This state symbolizes our human life that does not move according to our wishes. Whether it was in the time of the Buddha, 2,500 years ago, or today in America, one incessantly feels the sorrow of living in aggression and self-attachment."
The schedule:
» Monday-Wednesday: Bon dance practices, 7:30 p.m.
» Friday and June 28: Guided tours of the temple and a taiko drum performance will precede the 6:15 p.m. service; a bon dance will follow, with food and other items for sale.
» July 6: 8 a.m. Japanese-language service led by guest speaker the Rev. Ryoso Toshima; 10 a.m. English service, the Rev. David Nakamoto; 1 p.m. Japanese Nitchu service, Fuku-Rimban the Rev. Toyokazu Hagio.
» July 11-13: Bon Mairi memorial services for members of individual families. Visit hawaiibetsuin.org for the schedule or call 536-7044.