Humanistic Buddhism Seminar Teaches the “Way of Life”

On 12th June, BLIA South Island West 1 Sub-chapter held a seminar on “Humanistic Buddhism In Christchurch- 18 FAQ by Kiwis”, which was delivered by BLIA South Island Vice-president Mr. Jack. Those who attended the one and a half hour seminar included BLIA South Island President Mr. and Mrs. Cheng, Vice-president Mei-Hua Chen and committee members, to a total of 30 people. Prior to the talk, the participants actively engaged in a session of singing energy-charged Rhythm of the World songs to heat up the atmosphere.

The talk commenced with the introduction of the design of the building. Mr. Liu briefed everyone with the inspirations behind the building concepts, that is, Venerable Abbess Manshin’s idea of bringing the spirit of the practitioner into the building design, through the skillful means of an architect. He also explained that the design of the Temple façade was derived from the Longman Caves of China, and that the four great Bodhisattvas on the façade represent the spirit of the practitioner.

Mr. Liu also shared with everyone his experiences while being a temple tour guide during the last three years. He noted that visitors frequently ask questions like: Why does the Buddha sit the way He does? What is the purpose of Dharma instruments? Visitors also ask more specific questions, for example “Can bad people come to the temple?” “How can we liberate ourselves from the six realms?” or “Why are you here?”

Mr Liu’s most memorable experience was the time when a visitor interestingly made a melodic offering to the Buddha via playing some music. An interactive questions and answers session followed the relaxed and humorous talk. Venerable Juexi expressed her appreciation for the happiness Mr. Liu brought to the seminar and encouraged everyone to be more actively involved in the operation of the Temple, so that the Humanistic Buddhism advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun may be extended far and wide so that everyone may experience the special way of life.