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A group of Buddhist monks has arrived in Washington after completing a 108-day walk for peace across the United States. Crowds gathered to welcome the monks as they concluded their journey on foot.
The monks began their walk in Fort Worth, Texas, and traveled more than 3,700 kilometers to reach the US capital. Along the way, they promoted peace, mindfulness, and compassion during a time of social and political division.
Journey Captures National Attention
Throughout the journey, the monks became widely followed on social media. Their saffron robes and calm presence drew attention, as did their rescue dog, Aloka, who walked alongside them.
Meanwhile, thousands of supporters gathered along roadsides across southern and eastern states. In addition, large crowds welcomed the monks at churches, city halls, and public spaces. Stops included Opelika, Alabama, and Richmond, Virginia.
According to the monks, the walk offered people a moment of reflection and calm. Many followers described the journey as a symbol of unity and hope.
Message of Mindfulness and Peace
The walk was led by Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, vice president of the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Texas. He said the goal was to inspire inner peace through mindfulness.
“My hope is that people continue practicing mindfulness even after the walk ends,” he said. “Peace begins within each person.”
The group included 19 monks from Theravada Buddhist monasteries around the world. At each stop, they taught Vipassana meditation, which focuses on breath awareness and physical sensations.
Challenges Along the Way
However, the journey was not without danger. In November, the monks’ escort vehicle was struck by a truck while traveling along a highway. As a result, two monks were injured.
One monk, Venerable Maha Dam Phommasan, later had his leg amputated. Despite this, he rejoined the group in Washington using a wheelchair. His return was met with emotional support from attendees.
Respectful Welcome in Washington
The monks’ first public event in Washington took place at American University’s Bender Arena. Nearly 3,500 people attended. Unlike a typical arena event, the crowd remained silent as the monks entered. This silence was a sign of respect.
While in Washington, the monks plan to submit a request asking lawmakers to recognize Vesak, Buddha’s birthday, as a national holiday. However, organizers stressed that this request is not the main purpose of the walk.
Spiritual Tradition, Not Politics
A spokesperson for the temple explained that the walk is not a political movement. Instead, it is a spiritual offering focused on daily acts of peace.
He said the goal is to encourage mindful living and compassion. According to the monks, inner peace naturally spreads outward to society.
Peace walks are a long-standing tradition in Theravada Buddhism. The number 108, which marked the length of the journey, holds sacred meaning across several spiritual traditions. It represents completion, balance, and spiritual wholeness.
