Sri Lanka, Aug. 8 -- The establishment of the rainy retreat (Vas) stems from two historical viewpoints. The first suggests that Buddha instituted this practice after witnessing the suffering of monks who traveled great distances during monsoon season to reach Rajagaha-Nuwara, enduring severe hardships from severe weather conditions. The alternative explanation points to criticism from Jain ascetics, who condemned Buddhist monks for continuing outdoor religious activities during the rainy season. Buddha, valuing constructive criticism, responded by instructing monks to remain indoors throughout the Vassana period, thus beginning the tradition of rainy retreat.

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