Religious Affairs Minister: Pindapata is not merely a religious tradition but a life lesson
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar attended the National Pindapata event for Gema Waisak 2570 B.E. in 2026 and emphasised that the tradition is not merely a religious custom, but a lesson about life.
“Today, we are not only witnessing a religious tradition. We are witnessing a lesson about life,” said Minister Nasaruddin Umar in Jakarta on Sunday.
The event, part of the Vesakha Sananda 2570 B.E. series, was attended by around 75 bhikkhus from the Indonesian Theravada Sangha and approximately 10,000 Buddhists from various regions.
Under the theme “Treading the Noble Path to Contribute to the Nation”, the activity encourages the faithful to realise spiritual practices through concrete actions for others and the nation.
The Minister views this tradition as an inner meeting between giver and receiver, as well as a means to train sincerity and soften the heart.
“In the simplicity of the bhikkhus, we learn that humans are not always elevated by what they possess, but by what they are able to release,” he said.
The Minister also touched on the importance of instilling values of loving-kindness in religious and social life through strengthening curricula based on love and eco-theology. According to him, religion must be able to bring calmness, coolness, and a spirit of service in community life.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Indonesian Theravada Sangha, Bhikkhu Subhapanno Mahathera, stated that Pindapata is a noble Buddhist tradition that has been practised since the time of Gautama Buddha and continues as a virtuous practice passed down to this day.
“Pindapata is one form of dana. If dana is carried out well, then morality (sila) will be more perfect. If sila is practised more perfectly, then mental steadfastness (samadhi) will also develop. If samadhi is developed well, then wisdom will also develop. That is the path to ultimate freedom from suffering, namely Nibbana,” said the bhikkhu.
He also called on Buddhists to continue increasing virtue by avoiding all forms of evil and guarding oneself to create a harmonious life for society and the nation.
Also present on the occasion were Bhikkhu Sangha, the Director General of Buddhist Affairs and staff, members of the DKI Jakarta Provincial DPRD, several regional officials, chairmen of Buddhist religious organisations, the extended Theravada Indonesia family, Magabudhi, Wandani, Patria, and all components of Buddhist community institutions.