Srimala Student Learned "Humanistic Practitioner"

The nine students from the 27th Term Srimala College in Taiwan led by Venerable Miao Hong arrived in Christchurch Fo Guang Shan (FGS) South Island temple on 18 April. They were welcomed by Buddha Light International Association (BLIA) South Island New Zealand president See Shen Lee and other BLIA members. Upon arrival, they were led to the main shrine to pay their respect to Buddha. Present in the main shrine were FGS New Zealand Abbess Manshin and Venerables. Abbess Manshin briefed and highlighted to them the uniqueness of FGS South Island building and introduced the rest of BLIA New Zealand members to them. Srimala College students were overcome with joy and they felt very fortunate to have step ground on the southern-most hemisphere FGS temple in the world. They could feel the tranquility and beauty of the temple surrounding.

Abbess Manshin also held an evening dharma session with them, and covered the topic on “Humanistic Practitioner”. During the session Abbess explained the origin mindset of Practitioner is from the Buddha - “Sakyamuni Buddha”. Through the development in time and space emerged the practice of humanistic Buddhism by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. The practice of Humanistic Buddhism has guided “practitioners” with ideas and actions. Fo Guang Shan is like an institution of collaborative creation among practitioners. Under Master’s broader mindset and structure order, he presented Buddhism as a multi-functional modern religious organization where dharma can be propagated worldwide. FGS North and South Islands temples are prime examples of “Humanistic Practitioner” spirit . The two temples have presented itself in different architectural design and era, with the former exuding serene, tranquil sentiment set in a modern award winning eco-friendly building while the latter portray a very traditional-style setting.

In one of the session, students of Srimala College shared what they have learned from our Master Ven. Hsin Yung. One of which is our Master’s bravery and ability to overcome slanders, challenges; striving to propagate the dharma; with Master’s compassion, he has always place top priority in humanity and mankind; Master’s emphasis on the importance of education as a door leading towards understanding Buddhism; Master’s vows are as deep as the sea. It is only when we follow and abide by our Venerable Master’s teachings and practice that we have the opportunity to learn. From this session, the students can fully understand the meaning of “Humanistic Practitioner”.