Question: Since Dharma assemblies (法会) did ‘not’ exist in the Buddha’s time, are they ‘not’ so important today?
Answer: Dharma assemblies were founded by the Buddha personally! Each time there were beings assembling to hear him teach the Dharma, which later got recorded as a sūtra (经), that was already a Dharma assembly. With the Buddha having led thousands of assemblies, they are thus of central importance!
The Dharma assemblies today try to replicate those occasions by repeating the Buddha’s words in the sūtras, for teaching, learning and creating meritorious virtues (功德) to benefit all. However, there are differences in the audience and style of delivery, now changed to be melodious chanting for easier pacing together.
Related Article:
How Did Dharma Assemblies Originate?
https://thedailyenlightenment.com/2017/08/how-did-dharma-ceremonies-originate
