Nan Hua University Deputy Principal Venerable Huikai Gives Lecture In Wellington – Infinity of Life and its Sustainability – Buddhism’s Views On Transcending and Accepting Death

On 20th January, Deputy Principal of Taiwan’s Nan Hua University arrived in Wellington to conduct a lecture regarding “Life and Death Studies”. The lecture was attended by Venerable Abbess Manshin, BLIA North Island President Dolly Tsai and 15 BLIA Committee Members. Other attendees included New Zealand Strategic Ethnic Advisor Kefeng Chu and wife, New Zealand Buddhist Council Representative Joan Buchanan, Wellington MPs and members of the public, numbering in the thirties.

Venerable Huikai delved into the lecture by describing different life views and world views during different stages of life. Through analysis and examples, the process of the cycle of birth and death were revealed, with views on how to face life and death were clearly explained. It was shown that sentient being’s lives flow continuously without end. Yet we are unaware of this infinitely continuous life, therefore no plans have been prepared for its sustainable management. So we end up ceaselessly wallowing in the cycle of rebirth without awareness. Venerable Huikai encouraged everyone to plan and sustain-ably manage their lives. Cultivate positive, healthy and enthusiastic views toward life and death, therefore preserving enough vitality and health to counteract and face the fear of aging and death.

As a palliative care provider, Joan raised the question of whether a person who has lost consciousness can still receive the benefit of prayers from loved ones. To this BLIA Director Annie shared her past near death experience. At the time, even though her body was unconscious, she can clearly see everyone’s worried expressions while chanting the Buddha’s name on her behalf. Even though she tried to talk to them, there were no responses. Thinking back, it felt as if she was in another space, where there are only feelings of peaceful joy.

Everyone present expressed that they had benefited immensely from this lecture.