Pronunciation: [pˈɔ͡ɪə] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the word "poya" in English is /pɔɪə/ or "poi-uh". The IPA phonetic transcription explains that the first syllable is pronounced with an open "o" as in "pot" and a diphthong "i" sound as in "boy". The second syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound "uh", similar to the "a" in "sofa". "Poya" is a term used in Buddhism to refer to the observance of the full moon day.
Poya refers to a term primarily used in Sri Lanka with several meanings and connotations. In its essence, Poya refers to a monthly religious observance day in Theravada Buddhism, occurring on full moon days, commemorating important events in the life of Gautama Buddha. It is considered a significant and sacred day for Buddhists, promoting spiritual reflection, meditation, and religious activities.
Beyond its religious connotation, Poya also represents a public holiday in Sri Lanka, where businesses, schools, and government institutions are closed to allow individuals to observe the day according to their religious beliefs. Consequently, Poya represents a day of rest and tranquility in the country, devoted to religious practices and family gatherings.
Moreover, Poya can also be used to refer to the act of fasting or abstaining from certain activities on the specified day, such as refraining from consuming meat, alcohol, or engaging in immoral behaviors. Fasting during this time is meant to purify the mind, body, and spirit, encouraging self-discipline and moral conduct.
Additionally, "Poya" can be metaphorically extended to describe a state of peacefulness, serenity, and mindfulness in everyday life – a state achieved through adherence to Buddhist principles and teachings.
Overall, "Poya" embodies a religious, cultural, and communal concept in Sri Lanka, representing a day of devotion, observance, and spiritual reflection in Buddhism, as well as a symbol of harmony, rest, and moral conduct.
The word "poya" is primarily used in Sri Lanka and has its etymology rooted in the Sinhala language, which is the official language of Sri Lanka. "Poya" is derived from the Sinhala word "Poya-Day" or "Poya-Dina", where "poya" means "full moon" and "dina/day" means "day".
In Sri Lanka, the full moon day, or "poya day", holds significant religious and cultural value as it is observed monthly as a public holiday. Buddhists in Sri Lanka commemorate important events from the life of Gautama Buddha on these full moon days. The term "poya" is thus closely associated with these religious observances.
