Binara Poya
Binara Full Moon Poya Day is of very special significance. During this period, members of the Buddhist Sangha observe the Disciplinary Code lay down by the Gautama Buddha. The Bhikkhus spend most of their time in meditation. Meditation is one of the three major components of the Buddhist way; the other two being Morality or precept keeping which precedes and must always accompany the activity of Meditation and Wisdom, which is reached as a result of Meditation. It is during the month of Binara, the monks go to the Blessed One and obtain suitable subject for Meditation.
Binara Poya
The beginning of the Bhikkuni Sasanaya, was also recorded on Binara Full Moon Poya day. When the Blessed One was residing at Nigrodharamaya in the city of Kapilavasthu, Mahaprajapathi Gothami requested permission for women to enter the Order. Mahaprajapathi Gothami, was the sister of Queen Mahamaya. She brought up Siddhartha, after Mahamaya died. The Blessed One, turned down the request thrice. Mahaprajapathi Gothami, with 500 wives of princes, shaved their heads, wore yellow robes. Ultimately the Blessed One granted permission for Prajapathi Gothami and her 500 companions to enter the Order. The permission was granted on Binara Full Moon Poya Day to womenfolk to enter the sasanaya. Thus, Prajapathi Gothami became the first bhikkuni in Buddhism with the five hundred Princesses. It was after laying down strict rules and regulations, the Blessed One granted permission to the womenfolk to enter the Order.
