Buddhism In Asia
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Japan to help India develop Buddhist sites
Bloomberg News, MAY 31, 2006
New Delhi, India -- Japan will assist India in building roads and airports to improve access to Buddhist sites in India, helping it attract more tourists.
The Indian government estimates that 55.7 billion rupees, or $1.2 billion, needs to be invested to build facilities to promote tourism and conserve the sites linked to the Buddha, according to an Indian Tourism Ministry statement in New Delhi on Monday.
India is trying to attract more tourists from countries other than the United States and Britain, its traditional markets.
Buddhist sites in states like Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Orissa will help the country offer overseas tourists more destinations beyond the beach resorts of Goa and the Taj Mahal at Agra in northern India -
Magnificant!
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Latest Event for Youths in Dharma Drum Taiwan :
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Korean Buddhist, Help Iraqui Victims and Their Offsprings
KCRP Women Committee, 'Motherhood Cross the boundary' project
(Photo) Kauser Adell Humim, and her father; Kausel is under the treatment at Seoul National Hospital funded by Korea-Iraqui Peace Project, through Korean Religious Leaders' Peace Forum
(Photo) Insook Kim, the head of Buddhist Women's Development Institute, came to visit Kauser to console her.
“Hope to recover soon to see Mom and meet friends for Doll House."
Kauser Adell Hutim(4) is regaining her smile after her near-death experience due to the severe fire attack done by Bagdad Bombshell Terrorists' invasion. She luckily has obtained Korean Religious Leaders' fund which enabled her to enter Korean on 7th, early morning, and the following day was hospitalized in Seoul National Children's Hospital. She had the typical childlike smile, owing to her optimistic character.
This invitations is achieved by 'Korea-Iraqui Peace Project', which is one of the recent projects of KCRP(7 religious leaders' assoication) and ACRP(its international). KCRP women committee has embarked 'Motherhood cross the boundary' project, and started supporting four children victimized by war and terror. Last February a child with backward flow of urine symtoms has been operated successfully, fully recovered and went back..
Buddhist Women's Development Institute and Jogye Order Social Welfare Foundation volunteer group has looked after Kauser since the eighth, and is to give her the needed help for next three months.
Kauser is accompanied by her father, Adell Hutim(40) who says, "I am deeply grateful for the treatment because Kauser's operation on the arms and mouth, done at Iraqui was a tough job and the result was hopeless" and he also says "Kauser is truly fortunate to get this help".
Kauser is to get the first operation this week, and to go through total four step surgery (mouth, neck, ears and so on). Kyoungjin Kang, one of the volunteers, currently studying in Great Britain, joined to help Kauser settle in Korea. Kyougjin says, "In the beginning, Kauser was restless caused by the mental trauma after the burn and the unfamiliar surroundings in Korea. Now she is regaining herself and turns cheerful and optimistic."
Insook Kim, the head of Buddhist Women's Development Institute, says, "We hope this would be an opportunity to pass love and care trans the boundary of nations and ethnicity so that it would show the power of universal humanism for the Iraqi war and terror child victims and their care-givers."
Currently, 10.4% of born children in Iraq dies due to war and terror, and the survivers are often born deformed. However the demolished medical system could not be able to give in-timely treatment.
Besides, Santa Shejad(4, Gacheon Kil Hospital), with the inborn heart disease, and Muhamad Ottman(13, Wonkwang Univ. Hopspital) with the malfunctioning neck, are to be treated for one to three months. NurHakki(
was supposed to be hosptalized at Catholic university hospital had to cancel the entry to Korea because of the danger of terror -
AMiTuoFo.
Rejoice.
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The joyful nun
by Loke Poh Lin, New Straits Times, June 15, 2006
If anyoneÂ’s life has taken a complete 180-degree turn as a resultof a book, it is the Venerable Tenzin PalmoÂ’s. From her first brush with Buddhism to her setting up of the Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery in 2000, hers is a fascinating tale of self-discovery, compassion and joy. LOKE POH LIN has the story.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia -- Meeting the Venerable Tenzin Palmo is like breathing clean, fresh mountain air. ItÂ’s calming and exhilarating at the same time. Robed in saffron and red, she spoke with a gentle voice, a smile ever ready on her radiant face.
Tenzin Palmo was in Kuala Lumpur to speak at the upcoming International Conference on Buddhist Women from Saturday to June 21, and we took the opportunity to have a chat with her.
Amazingly, her spiritual journey started in London when she was 18, after reading a book.
“Up to that time I was searching for a spiritual path. Then I joined a Buddhist society in London. Mind you, that was in the early 60s, before the hippie movement and general interest in Eastern religions.
“I got involved in the Sri Lankan Society as I was interested in Theravada Buddhism. Then I read a book dealing with an overview of Buddhism and while reading about Tibetan Buddhism and its four traditions: Nyingma, Sakyapa, Kargyupa, Gelugpa, a voice said ’You’re a Gelugpa’.
“The last thing I wanted to be involved in was Tibetan Buddhism! But this voice inside said ‘You are a Gelugpa’. I went to see a woman about this and she advised me to read The Life of Milarepa, about a great yogi of the 11th century. It was one of the few translated books at that time. When I read that book, I realised that this is my path.
“I started to learn Tibetan. And when I was 20 I went to India to look for a teacher.”
In 1964, she met her Tibetan guru, His Eminence the 8th Khamtrul Rinpoche, and became one of the first Westerners to be ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist nun.
She studied under him for six years, after which she was sent to Lahaul for more intensive practice.
For a further six years, she practised in the monastery there and remained in isolation during the long winter months.
Eventually, Tenzin Palmo sought more seclusion and found a nearby cave where she stayed 12 years in solitary retreat. This became the subject of a book by Vicki Mackenzie, Cave in the Snow.
The cheerful Tenzin PalmoÂ’s main focus now is the Dongyu Gatsal Ling (DGL) Nunnery she founded in 2000.
“The lamas of my monastery (Khampagar, at Tashi Jong) requested that since there was nothing at that time, we should start a nunnery. For the last 13 years we have been raising funds for the nunnery. We have 38 nuns now but we are building for 100. Every year, we take in 20 more. They study Buddhist philosophy, meditation, language.”
Teachers are senior lamas and nuns who have had the opportunity of an education.
A browse through Tenzin Palmo’s website (www.tenzinpalmo.com) shows that the nuns receive accounting and budgeting lessons too — so that they will be able to run the nunnery well in the future.
The DGL Nunnery offers young women from Tibet and the Himalayan border regions of India, Bhutan and Nepal an opportunity to develop their intellectual and spiritual potential.
Tenzin Palmo adds, “In the past, nuns were regarded as girls who couldn’t get married. In the last 10 years this has changed. They have met nuns from Korea and Taiwan and seen how confident they are, how respected and empowered. And it inspires them.
“Tibetans should introduce higher ordination for nuns. Nuns should have the opportunity to become more educated, same as the monks, but this has been denied women. The lamas themselves are most keen to help teach the nuns. Certainly the ones who have taught our nuns love teaching our girls. And have been apologetic that they have not thought about this in the past.
“Historically, the trend among women to not appreciate their own gender has not served aspiring nuns well. Their needs were not expressed. It is changing now, with a gentle, quiet revolution. Hopefully they will progress to advanced degrees. Now our concern is for higher ordination for nuns.
“We have discussed the introduction of higher ordination for nuns in the Tibetan tradition. Things are moving along. Now young scholars are also researching the bikkshunis (ordained nuns) and how ordination has come about.”
At present nuns in the Tibetan tradition can only receive the vows of a novice. The lamas were supportive while raising some points which would need to be addressed before the full ordination can be bestowed within their tradition.
When asked why there has been a lack of interest in training nuns and integrating them into the mainstream of Buddhist clergy, she answered: “It has been pointed out that if they had introduced ordination of nuns 20 years ago, it would not have been successful. The nuns were not educated. It would not have worked. Now it’s different. Nuns are more confident and have more self esteem.
“The nuns always had more difficulty in surviving. The nunneries rely on the generosity of lay patrons. When resources are scarce, the monks would get the vote. Women are not supportive of their own gender. Somehow the monks seem more meritorious. So generally there’s much less devotion towards nuns.
“Even now, with nuns coming into their own, their nunneries are rundown and struggling. Each monastery has a head, but the nuns have no one to represent them. It’s always a struggle to keep going. So through the ages, there has been fewer and fewer nuns.There weren’t enough good teachers to teach. Now, it’s different. Our professors really love our nuns and are proud of the fact that they teach them. The Dalai Lama is very supportive of the nuns also. He himself says that the future of the Dharma is in the hands of the women.”
The world lives in fear, intolerance and distrust. I asked Tenzin for advice on how to help us cope.
She said, “Buddhism is a path which leads to peace and lovingkindness and compassion. The world is full of violence and greed because it’s inhabited by minds which are working by themselves. Many disasters are brought about by the humans. We are unbelievably destructive. We have to change our minds, and purify our minds and cleanse ourselves.
“Greed, anger, arrogance, jealousy – all the negative energies would be gone if we can control our minds. Greed goes closely with anger and frustration. Materialism is nothing to do with levels of happiness. Buddha said greed is like salty water. You can swallow the whole ocean and never satisfy your thirst.
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Tenzin Palmo and a host of international speakers will be sharing their insights at the 9th Sakyadhita International Conference on Buddhist Women in Kuala Lumpur from Saturday to June 21, 2006. For more details, log on to www.sakyadhita.org. -
Unfortunately, there's no english poster.
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hi path_seeker,Originally posted by path_seeker:Unfortunately, there's no english poster.
can't see wat u post
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The Experience of Monastic Life
Learn the path to awakening and transformation£»
experience the pure life of a Chan Buddhist monastic .
1. Event Description
By attending Awakening, you have a chance to experience the daily?life of a Chan (Chinese Zen)Buddhist monk or nun and live within our monastery environment. Discover the concepts and practice methods for awakening to a deep understanding of life - a new way of living that goes beyond the ordinary.
2. Event Time August 21st to August 29th, 2006 (altogether nine days)
3. Event Location
The camp takes place in the beautiful mountainous countryside
environment of Northern Coastal Taiwan at:
Dharma Drum Mountain World Center for Buddhist Education
14-5 Banling Road, Sanjie Village, Jinshan 208, Taipei County, Taiwan,
ROC
4. Applicant Requirements
Man or woman who has graduated high school, has a basic knowledge of Buddhist principles, a healthy body and mind, and a sincere interest in learning and participating in the monastic lifestyle.
Age range: 18 to 45 years of age
5. Attendance Fee
Free, donations are welcomed
6. Application Information
i. Period: June 17th to August 10th 2006 (on-line applicants accepted first)
ii. Info Location: Dharma Drum Sangha University, any local Dharma Drum chapter, or branch office.
iii. Identification Required: Photocopy of license or passport, the application and a 2" photograph
iv. Procedure:Apply directly on-line at , in person, or by mail.
7. Application Method
Apply On-line:
E-mail the completed application to Dharma Drum Sangha University:
awakening@ddm.org.tw
Also, mail the required identification info to: Dharma Drum Mountain World Center for Buddhist Education Re: Awakening: The Experience of Monastic Life
14-5 Banling Road, Sanjie Village, Jinshan 208, Taipei County, Taiwan, R.O.C
Apply by Mail
Send application, photo, and related identification to the Dharma Drum Mountain address above
Contact Us:
Telephone:
Weekdays 08:00 to 17:00 +886-2-2498-7171 ext. 2346
Weekdays 17:00-20:00 & Weekends"ext. 2334,1031 (men) ext. 2816 (women)
Fax:+886-2-2408-2084
Website : http://sanghau.ddm.org.tw/awakening/ -
Living as one big, happy family
by Foong Pek Yee, The Star, June 25, 2006
Love knows no boundary, and in TaiwanÂ’s Fo Guang Shan Orphanage, FOONG PEK YEE finds orphans from countries all over the world growing up together as a harmonious family.
Kaohshiung, Taiwan -- SHOW Bi Laing is single but a proud mother of 624 children of various nationalities, including Portuguese, Indians, South Africans and Taiwanese. The children are orphans at the Fo Quang Shan Buddhist Temple Orphanage in Kaohshiung, Taiwan, which she has been in charge of for more than 25 years.
<< FACES OF JOY: Show (fourth from left) with some of the children and volunteers at the Fo Quang Shan orphanage.
INSTILLING INDEPENDENCE: >>
The children at Fo Quang Shan are very disciplined, and learn to look after themselves from a very young age. — Pictures by FOONG PEK YEE -
Buddhist Lent Candle Festival 2006
by Jacques Biermann, Pattaya Daily News, July 10, 2006
City rejoices in celebrating the Buddhist Lent, by creating an awe-inspiring Candle Festival 2006
Pattaya, Thailand -- Pattaya City Under Deputy Wuttisak Rermkitchakarn, together with members from his cabinet MPs, officially declared the Buddhist Lent Candle Festival 2006. The event took place on the 27 June, 2006 at a meeting room of Pattaya City Hall.
Pattaya City and The Department of Banglamung Culture and Arts were hosts for this special Buddhist Candle Festival. The event took place between 7 and 8 July.
The purpose of such event is to preserve the Buddhist traditions and a mark of respect for the Lord Buddha. The event featured on the 7th July began with a candle festival at Wat Poh in Naklua.
Contestants from Pattaya schools took place in such a special Buddhist event by creating impressive displays of meticulously hand-crafted candles.
Myriad colourful displays of great and small candles paraded along the streets of Naklua, creating a sea of magnificent sights to visitors from far and wide as they weaved their way through Beach Road and ended up at Wat Chaimongkol in South Pattaya.
Competitions for the best candle displays attracted a handsomely price of 30,000 TB. Winners for the creative candle displays went to Pattaya 9th School, Srisuvit School and Bohtisumbhan Bhittayakarn School, they each received a prize money of 30,000 Baht.
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Korean temple bell tolls for meditation
by Barbara Bunce Desmeules, CanWest News Service, July 11, 2006
'Templestay' program popular with people who want to delve into Buddhism
Daejeon, South Korea -- It was a cold December afternoon on the roof of the administration building of the Jagwang-Sa temple compound in Daejeon, South Korea. The monk stood to one side, meditating, with his arms tucked in his robe. It was time to beat the Beomjong temple bell. In Korean Buddhism, the ceremony rids a person of earthly desires and helps prepare for meditation.
The huge bronze bell has rung every morning and evening for hundreds of years. Weighing several tons and adorned with floral and celestial motifs, bells like this one are found in all temples. Cho Seong Ran, the temple guide, took hold of the suspended log, about a metre long and 24 centimetres in diameter, and slammed it into the huge bell. Then she motioned for the guests to follow her, and we slowly walked around the bell, hands together in prayer.
The bell's deep sound reverberated through our bodies. It was a moving and emotional experience. When we arrived back at our starting point, she indicated that it was my turn. The log was heavier than I thought, and it took a good push to make a loud and resounding echo. We repeated this 33 times, meditating as we circled the bell.
It was cold on the exposed roof, but the thrill of participating in this ancient ceremony warmed me. It was part of a South Korean program that allows anyone to stay in a Buddhist temple for a day, week or more. Begun in 2002, when South Korea (with Japan) hosted soccer's World Cup, the "Templestay" initiative proved popular with Koreans and foreigners, and the number of participating temples has doubled to 44. Many are in the countryside, others are on the outskirts of small towns.
Temples are considered cultural treasures, so an overnight stay is an opportunity to experience the ancient traditions of monks and nuns (yes, there are Buddhist nuns, called Biguni in Korea).
Buddhism remains the largest religion of South Korea. While at the temple, you are free to ask questions about Buddhism or just enjoy the peace and quiet. "This is a unique experience for people who want to truly relax or delve into the culture," said Frank Creasey, of South Korea's National Tourism Organization.
If you are touring South Korea, the calm and tranquil atmosphere is a welcome relief after the hustle and bustle of Seoul, the capital and largest city just an hour by bus from the Jagwang-Sa temple compound.
There is no charge for a stay, which includes lodging in a dorm, three meals and activities, but a $60 donation is suggested for each day you are there. The temples are clean but spartan, and the size and style of the accommodation varies. Rooms are usually shared. At times Western-style beds are provided, but sleeping with a mat and comforter on the heated Korean floor can be cozy.
Meals are eaten together, at long, low tables. Be forewarned: The entire group will wait until everyone is seated before beginning the meal, no matter how late the guest arrives.
Men and women have separate residences. The women's residence at the Jagwang-Sa temple is called the "Empty mind house." When we saw the sign, the Western women in the group felt miffed until we were told that an empty mind is a good thing in Buddhism. To empty one's mind is a prelude to meditation.
After morning prayers and breakfast, a visitor's day begins with a tour of the compound, which typically includes the temple, an administration building and a lodging building with dorms and dining hall. Temples are always open for individual worshippers and are used four or five times a day for group worship.
During the day you can roam the countryside or take part in such activities as hiking, calligraphy, forest meditation, sutra printing, Buddhist dance, tea ceremony and traditional crafts, such as making lotus lanterns.
Meals are simple, vegetarian and presented in a serve-yourself style.
Food is an important element in temple life -- eating is seen as a way to discipline the mind, to know your limits and to teach self-control.
You must eat what you take; waste is not an option. When the monks have finished eating what is on their plate, they add a little water, scrape up the remaining morsels and drink the water with the tidbits of food.
This simple ceremony is all part of getting to know a country, and a stay in a temple is an exceptional opportunity to glimpse into the soul of South Korea.
For more information on the Templestay program, go to www.templestaykorea.net Toureast holidays, 1-(877)-578-8888 or www.toureast.com, specializes in temple tours -
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Nepal recognised as new Kaikyochi by Hongwanji
On 3rd July 2006, Nepal was recognized by Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha (Nishi Hongwanji) as an Overseas Missionary district (Kaikyochi) in view of the continuing spread of the Jodo Shin teachings there. It is the forth after Australia, Mexico and Taiwan.
The current name is "Hongwanji Buddhist Society Nepal, Kathmandu Hongwanji". A new temple building temporarily called Kathmandhu Hongwanji is now being built in Kathmadu, and it will house the District Office. Currently the Main Shrine Hall (Hondo) on the 1st floor as well as living quarters on the 2nd floor have been completed as a Buddha-dedication service is scheduled in Mid-August.
Jodo Shinshu first spread in Nepal 14 years ago due to the auspices of the late Mr Mukaibo Hiromichi (passed away in May/June 2006), who contributed to the building of the "Greenlife Research Society", a Buddhist welfare group in Nepal. Later it was re-named the "Greenlife Buddhist Society, Nepal". The current president is Rev Sonam Wangdi, who after meeting Mr Mukaibo, converted from Tibetan Buddhism to Jodo Shinshu in 1998.
Rev Sonam Wangdi studied at the Chuo Bukkyo Gakuin in 2003 and was ordained as a minister in the Jodo Shin tradition before graduating and made an overseas missionary in September 2004. Nepal is an overwhelmingly Hindu country and Buddhists make only 10% of the population. At first Rev Sonam held gatherings at his own home, but with the completion of the Main Shrine Hall gatherings as well as worship services in Nepalese, English and Japanese. Other than scheduled services as well as sermons, "A Beginners' Guide to Jodo Shinshu" as well as the Japanese language are taught. Membership of the society numbers at more than 200 members currently.
In April this year (2006), Director Goto of the Hongwanji visited Nepal and supervised the construction of the temple building and temple activities. The Hongwanji also accepted Rev Calup Lama (sorry not sure of the correct spelling for his first name so just guessing from the katakana in the newspaper
) who graduated from the Chuo Bukkyo Gakuin in April this year and is now assisting Rev Sonam Wangdi in Nepal; currently Miss Uma Lama Gishin (also not sure of her name! ) who is scheduled to graduate next spring and will return to Nepal to assist in temple activities.
(Translated by sanath from the Honganji Journal 20/7/2006) -
Bureau of Missionary Activities of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism is planning to establish the Committee of the Promotion of International Missionary Activities to assist the international propagation of Korean Buddhism and its related projects.
Bureau of Missionary Activities of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism (Executive Director, Ven. Doyoung) made a preliminary announcement of the legislation of the Committee of the Promotion of International Missionary Activities for the public opinion on the homepage the Jogye Order (www.buddhism.or.kr) on 21, July 2006.
This preliminary announcement is to accommodate the resolution of the Council of Missionary Activities of the Jogye Order to support the enhancement the active international missionary activities at the level of the Jogye Order by systematizing the overseas missionary activities. So far, there was no legislation whatever with regard to the international missionary activities.
The legislation stipulates the chief mission of the Committee of the Promotion of International Missionary Activities as follows:
1. Training of the specialists on the overseas missionary activities including interpreters and translators of foreign language.
2. Establishment of international site to promote missionary activities through internet.
3. Support and management of overseas inspection and tour
4. Management of the organization of sponsors and funds
The legislation also stipulates that the committee will be composed of nine members including a chairman who must have a fair experience of overseas missionary activities along with a firm resolution with the status of the Jogye Order monk. The committee members will be appointed by the Executive Director of Bureau of the Missionary Activities of JOKB.
The members of the committee also must have an experience of overseas missionary activities with special skill and knowledge. The members will be appointed by the Executive Director of Missionary Activities on the recommendation of the chairman, but the Director of Missionary Work will be a mandatory member of the committee. The tenure of the chairman is two years and can be reappointed.
The regular meeting of the committee will be held once a month. The occasional meetings will be held by the request of the chairman when it is deemed necessary or by the request of one third of the committee members. The resolution will be passed by the attendance of one half of the registered members and in favor of majority vote. The legislation stipulates the chairman to submit a quarterly report on the important missions to the Executive Director of the Missionary Activities.
The managing fund of the committee will be provided by a subsidy of the Jogye Order and the profit from the projects related to the overseas missionary activities and other diverse subsidies. The running expenses of the committee can be covered within the financial feasibility of the committee according to the regulation of the Jogye Order. The committee can also operate a supporting committee to raise financial contribution to promote overseas missionary activities. The Department of Missionary Activities of JOKB will attend to the administrative support of the committee.
The legislation will be proclaimed by the decree of the Jogye Order after the end of announcement period of 28, August 2006. According to the officials at the Missionary Activities, it is greatly hoped that the decree of the legislation by the Jogye Order will be a turning point of the overseas missionary activities of Korean Buddhism. -
Buddhism is big business for new breed of upwardly mobile monks
by ETHAN MCNERN, The Scotsman, Aug 4, 2006
Shanghai, China -- Piety and a knowledge of Buddhist scriptures used to be just about the only qualifications needed to become a Chinese monk. Now computer skills, foreign language ability and a degree in financial management are also desirable.
A monk at China's Shaolin Temple, which helps produce computer games, logs on to the internet.
Picture: Cancan Chu/Getty Images
Three decades after temples were destroyed and scriptures burned during the Cultural Revolution, Buddhism is making a comeback in China. And, like most things in the super-competitive, rapidly developing country, it has become both big business and a field in which people are eager to get ahead.
That's creating a new breed of multi-tasking, tech-savvy, upwardly mobile monks.
"Our recruiting process is highly competitive," said Hui Jue, the deputy general manager of the 120-year-old Jade Buddha Temple in central Shanghai, who recently completed a master of business administration degree at Jiaotong University.
Fifteen monks from his temple have been on foreign language courses at the Shanghai International Studies University, and another batch have started MBA studies in Jiaotong's business school.
Such skills are necessary, Mr Hui believes, for the temple to spread Buddhist teachings in the modern world and to manage its growing business interests. As well as its grounds, Jade Buddha owns a vegetarian restaurant, a four-star hotel, a seven-floor office building and a food factory.
Many of China's temples have been little touched by time, especially in remote areas of the country. But Jade Buddha Temple's modern approach is no longer unusual.
Buddhism, introduced into China in about the first century, is the biggest religion in the country, with as many as 100 million adherents - that's more than 8 per cent of the Chinese population - according to some estimates.
The persecution of the Cultural Revolution is long gone and, while the government is not very enthusiastic about any religion, in recent decades it has given more support to Buddhism than other faiths.
China now has some 13,000 Buddhist temples and about 200,000 monks and nuns.
The ancient Shaolin Temple in Henan province has capitalised on its reputation as a birthplace of the martial arts to host international guests and stage kung fu displays around the world.
It owns a martial arts training school and Shaolin Development, a company producing vegetarian snacks and Zen tea. It also co-operates with entertainment companies in film-making and online game production.
Guangxiao Temple in Guangdong province has launched online worshipping, so users can offer virtual incense, fruit and flowers to electronic Buddhas.
The internet is also important for Mr Hui at Jade Buddha Temple. "The first thing in my daily work is to open the laptop to check e-mails and surf the internet," he said. "Everything in the temple is now processed online. No paperwork. Those who failed to pass the computer test were laid off and reassigned to non- office jobs."
Surfing the internet may seem a dangerous activity for people who are meant to be sequestering themselves from the world for spiritual contemplation. But Mr Hui has thought of that.
"Only certain people, such as we managers and those in charge of public relations, can get access to the internet. Others can only use the local area network, because it is hard to control what they will read on the internet," he said.
Mr Hui concedes that the lifestyle of a modern monk does not always permit much focus on the spiritual realm. "Interacting with the outside world occupies most of our time, so many monks have to use the noon break if they want to do meditation," he said.
But overall, he does not regret the change. "Before, everyone, including the abbot, had to clean the temple, and old monks were assigned to check tickets and guard the temple," he said. "But they often smoked and fell asleep, causing bad influences. Now, we have hired professional service companies to be responsible for temple security and cleaning. This works very well." -
Malaysia's Chief monk critically ill
The Star/Buddhist Channel, August 30, 2006
Petaling Jaya, Malaysia -- The Chief Monk of Malaysia and Singapore Venerable Dr K. Sri Dhammananda, 87, is critically ill and has been in a private hospital in Petaling Jaya for more than a week. The public however, is advised not to visit him at the hospital.
Ven. Dhammananda: Has been in a private hospital for over a week
He has been on tube feeding for about six weeks following a stroke.
“He is very weak and we have asked the doctors to help him fight on. He flew back from Singapore last Monday after three weeks at the Mount Elizabeth Hospital where he sought treatment after a second mild stroke.
Instead of returning to the Buddhist Maha Vihara in Brickfields, he requested to be readmitted to a hospital,” said Rev K. Dhammaratana, deputy chief monk of the temple.
Rev Dhammananda is the chief monk of Buddhist Maha Vihara. Affectionately referred to as Chief Reverend, he has been involved in Buddhist missionary work for 54 years.
Meanwhile the Buddhist Channel reports that Mr. Sarath Surendre, President of the Sasana Abhiwurdhi Wardhana Society, have requested the public not to make visits to the private hospital where the Chief venerable is currently recuperating.
The numerous visitors he said had disrupted the venerable's much needed rest. Mr Surendre also said that the hospital's administrators have requested Buddhist representatives to inform the public not to camp at the hospital as space there was limited.
"We understand the devotee's concern for our much beloved Chief Venerable," said Mr Surendre, "but for the venerable's sake as well as to maintain public order at the hospital, we implore the people to be considerate."
Mr Surendre also advised that "if devotees are really concerned for the venerable, they are encouraged to radiate thoughts of loving kindness (metta) to him."
He requested the media to play the role as responsible information provider as unfounded rumours have been circulating about the health situation of the venerable. -
The 21st Buddhist Art Exhibition has opened on August 30 at Insa Art Center in Seoul with the presentation of prizes of the winners. The Exhibition lasts from August 30 to September 5.
The Buddhist Art Exhibition was first held in 1970, and it now has 37 years of history. It is sponsored by the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism with the support of the Buddhist Art Association, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the Administration of Cultural Property. Special prizes of the Minister of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Director of the Administration of Cultural Property were newly established this year.
The Exhibition Ceremony started with the vow of Threefold Refuges, recitation of the Heart Sutra, and congratulatory address of Ven. Jikwan, the Executive Director of Administration of Jogye Order: "I congratulate for all the winners of prize and all the contestants who have shown their talents through this Buddhist art contest." He also said that "As the silent truth is the supreme truth, and the formless truth is the supreme truth, all the exhibitions are the finest arts. Once again I would like to express my sincere appreciation for all the contestants and the honored guests of this ceremony."
Kim Myeong-gon, the Minister of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, said in his congratulatory address, which is read by Kim Jang-sil, the Chief of the Religious Affairs, in lieu of the Minister, that "The 21st century is the age of culture, and the creativity of culture will be the main force of the development of the society. The quality of culture will also be the competitive power of the country in the cultural age of the new millenium. In this sense, this Buddhist Art Exhibition is very meaningful for the creativity and appreciation of arts."
He also expressed his hope that this exhibition, in compliance with the cultural age, will promote the pride of the Buddhist artists and prove the excellence of the Buddhist arts.
The Grand Prize went to "Shakyamuni Buddha" by Nam Se-jin, the Golden Prize to "the Threefold Venerable Buddhas" by Lee Gyeong-ah, the Prize of the Minister of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to "Arhat" by Yun Si-na, and the Prize of the Director of the Administration of Cultural Property to "the Gukdang Chomun Rosary Case" by Jang Chae-weon.
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US Nonviolent Peaceforce Delegation Visits Dharamshala
TibetNet, September 7, 2006
Dharamshala, India -- A 10-member delegation of the US Nonviolent Peaceforce is on visit to Dharamshala, the seat of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), from 5-7 September.
The delegation called on Kalon Tripa Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche and Mr. Karma Choephel, chairperson of the Assembly of the Tibetan People's Deputies, this morning.
Yesterday they met Mr. Thubten Samphel, Information Secretary, Department of Information and International Relations of the CTA who briefed them on the Tibetan community in exile.
The delegation visited the Tibetan Medical and Astro Institute and Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA). The delegation will also tour various other institutions in and around Dharamshala during its short stay here.
Tomorrow the delegation will be given an introduction of the Tibetan Buddhism from Geshe Lhakdor, Director of the LTWA. -
A New Journey with Meditation at Clove&Clive
by Chuah Ai Jou, The Buddhist Channel, Sept 25, 2006
Petaling Jaya, Malaysia – September 25, 2006 sees the birth of a new meditation centre, Clove&Clive in Kelana Jaya, a commercial suburb of Petaling Jaya.
Established with the aim of bringing about more spiritual awakening in people, Clove&Clive offers meditation programmes on mindfulness and love with a practical and contemporary approach. The centre opens its doors to anyone who is spiritually-inclined and geared towards self-development for a better understanding of their mind and spirit.
It is also perhaps one of the few rare centres which offer meditation courses that are non-religious and are open to participants irrespective of race and religion.
The centreÂ’s name, Clove&Clive, was derived from the themes on which the courses are centered on: conscious loving (Clove) and conscious living (Clive).
The founders, husband-and-wife pair Hor Tuck Loon and Chan Lai Fun, has more than 30 year of combined experience in the field of meditation as facilitators, coach, guide, learner, speaker and organizer. All of these roles have been significant in their journey to touch, move and inspire others.
“Through more than two decades of learning with good teachers and our own journey in meditation, Lai Fun and I have taught and shared with many like-minded people. The inward transformation they have undergone and the way they look at life anew tells us that there is a greater urgency to reach out,” shares Tuck Loon.
Tuck Loon, a graphic designer by training, and Lai Fun, an IT consultant with a multinational oil and gas corporation for 9 years, quit their day jobs a few years ago to engage full-time into teaching meditation.
They are joined by Choy Boon Ling, a corporate trainer with 14 years of experience, who passionately shares their belief of helping others grow positively into a leading life with more love and wisdom.
At the centre, the three will facilitate courses which offer a contemporary approach to meditation, using mindfulness and loving-kindness as tools to guide participants into understanding the mechanics of the mind and transforming their perspectives on every aspect of their lives, from work to relationships.
Programmes at Clove&Clive are designed for the different levels of the beginner, intermediate and experienced practitioner. There are follow up courses available for every level, serving to encourage a continuous practice of meditation which will result in a natural progression of making it a way of life.
Besides weekly sessions, practice retreats will also be conducted over the weekend. Classes are kept small to provide more individual attention and facilitate close sharing of experience and feedback with the facilitators and one another.
Clove&Clive was set up with the immense moral and financial support from the trusted friends of the founders. In its initial stage, the courses are heavily subsidized and range from a nominal fee of RM160 to RM290 per course.
For more information on Clove&Clive and the courses offered, please visit www.cloveNclive.com or mailto:cloveNclive@gmail.com or call Freddie Lee (+6)016-328 3366 [except between 6pm-7pm] -
Venerable Ratana installed as Maha Vihara chief monk
The Star, October 9, 2006
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia -- Ven K. Dhammaratana Thera, better known as Rev Ratana, was installed as chief monk of the Maha Vihara temple in Brickfields yesterday.
MY BLESSINGS: Six-month-old Rinzen Tee Juyn Young and his parents (from left) Chee Hui Yin, 32, and Tee Beng Chen ,32, presenting alms to Rev Ratana at the Maha Vihara temple in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur, yesterday.
The simple installation ceremony coincided with Kathina, a day of showing respect to monks. Rev Ratana replaces Ven Dr K. Sri Dhammananda Nayaka Maha Thera, who passed away on Aug 31 at the age of 87.
Rev Ratana told The Star that he would continue from the old leadership with focus on building a younger generation of compassionate youths.
“From my observation, parents are having difficulty with youths who are growing rebellious and they find difficulty in bringing them up.
“For this reason, I hope to organise different activities to guide youths to not challenge their parents.
“Most of all they must not speak when they are angry as they may say the wrong things and hurt others,” he added.
He also called on Malaysians living in a multi-racial society to respect each other’s religious and human values. “If adults do not practise tolerance, patience and compassion, then the seeds of discontent will continue with the younger generation.
“This will not be good for the economic and social progress of the nation,” he said.
Devotees marked Kathina by giving away alms in the form of robes and food to monks. Buddhist Missionary Societies of Malaysia secretary Datuk Chee Peck Kiat said it was a moment of happiness for the devotees to be part of the occasion.
Born in Ceylon on July 24, 1948, Rev Ratana arrived at the Brickfields temple on March 8, 1980.
Among his contributions during his 26 years of temple service were the setting up of the Ti-Ratana Welfare Centre free clinic at Ampang Jaya and a halfway house for outstation patients seeking treatment here.
Rev Ratana acknowledged that as a chief monk he had to face big challenges. But he is undaunted. He is determined to modernise the teaching of Buddhism and to show devotees how relevant it is in coping with modern life.
“In modern society, people no longer go to religious leaders to seek advice as they are too busy with work,” he said. “But as a religious leader, it is my duty and responsibility to reach out to them.
“Within my capacity, I hope I will be able to continue his (Rev Dhammananda's) service.” Rev Ratana also hoped to work with the country's political leaders in building a developed nation. -
I recently read that the number of Buddhists in Korea have dwindled to around 40% of the population! I felt really, really dismayed!
It is extremely heartening to note that the spirit of Buddhism is still going strong in Korea
Lets hope our monotheistic friends don't burn any more of our temples and scriptures... -
Linkage between ‘Science, Life and Buddhism’
What kind of connection is there between Buddhism and science?
It seems no linkage at first thought, but there is close relationship as many scientists already revealed correlation between Buddhism and science. However stem cell issues, hot social argument until recently, extended an interval between religion and science.
A commemorative lecture meeting to narrow a gap between Buddhism and science and to enlarge mutual understanding comes into the spotlight these days. Bulkwanghoi(The Bulkwang Society), a faith and practice organization marking the 32nd founding anniversary, will hold the lecture meeting on ‘Science, Life and Buddhism’ from 18 October to 3 November (every Wednesdays and Fridays) at 7 p.m. at Daeryundang (third floor of Bulkwang Education Center), Bulkwangsa temple in Seoul;
18 Oct. Space and time of Physics and Buddhism by KIM Sungku, Professor emeritus of Physics, Ewha Womans University
20 Oct. Substance concept and Emptiness by Prof. CHO Wonho, Material engineering, Seoul National University
25 Oct. Life manipulation and Buddhism by Prof. WU Heejong, Veterinary medicine, Seoul National University
27 Oct. Life medicare ethics of Buddhism by Prof. KIM Jongwuk, Buddhism Dept., Dongkuk University
1 Nov. Modern medical access of Buddhism practice by Prof. JANG Hyungap, Psychology, Youngnam University
3 Nov. Modern understanding of samsara and no-self by Prof. HAN Jakyung, Philosophy, Ewha Womans University
These representative experts in the science and life sector have made great achievements, especially to identify correlation with Buddhism. Head monk Jihong of Bulkwangsa temple said, “Science and life have an effect on every inch of our lives than any times. Viewpoints toward the world are changing. It would be a valuable time to compare with Buddhism and analyze it with the specialists.” -
Living in temples to escape pressure
China Daily, Sept 13, 2006
How do city dwellers fare when they visit a temple? Do they achieve spiritual release?
Hong Kong, China -- Pressure, now that is not an uncommon word for modern people. In Hongkong, bus drivers use dirty words to release it.
More and more white collar workers in Asia are opting for short retreats in Buddhist temples to rejuvenate their lives
While in Chongqing, more and more white collar workers are choosing to make short stays in temples to explore what life would be like without it - peace and contentment.
Well, how do city dwellers fare when they visit a temple? Do they achieve spiritual release?
Dressed in a long robe, 34 year old Wang Shiming is exercising with a broom. If it wasn't for his hairstyle and shoes, people would think he was just an ordinary monk.
Seems nobody can understand how he feels now. Afflicted by various troubles recently, this is not the first time Wang has escaped to this temple, not to pray, but to get away from the stresses of life.
Wang has been an insomniac for a while. "Every time I went to bed, all kinds of samples and data went to my mind," he says.
From his monthly phone bill to the future development of his business, Wang, the owner of a clothing manufacturer, has to think about it all. Always having to think back to whether or not he locked home though he had already arrived office.
The city's KTVs, theaters and clubs were not enough to rid Wang of all the overwhelming pressure. Mild-tempered Wang was shocked himself when he scolded one female colleague to tears for being 5 minutes late.
After having to go to the doctor to check a stomach ache, he says, "I was using my health to gain money."
Recalling all of the things he does miss about life in the city, the sunrise, the breakfast, Wang calls his assistant. But he turns off the phone immediately, a far cry from before, when answering the phone was his main job in the afternoon.
Time to work in the temple now. Today's task is to move books. Wang sweats a lot but feels much lighter.
Forget about the shower at home, Wang takes a cold shower at the temple, afterwards joining in a chat with some monks. He feels great after some loud laughter. Going to bed at 8:30, the end to a perfect day means a new day too.
"Going to the temple for a short time is a way of escaping pressure, but not the only way," Chinese psychologist Chen Lan says. "It's common that white collar workers in the city have to shoulder pressure from their work, studies, competition, marriage, and education for their child." But, just as the sources of pressure may differ, "the way to release pressure could be different too. If it's too severe, people have to go to a psychologist."
Well, for those with a lot of stress, but not too overwhelming an amount, a visit to a temple may be a good fit. And, in addition to being a good way for some to release pressure, temple stays can also promote Buddhism, Monk Deman of Huayan temple says.
Actually temple stays have already gained popularity in Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia. Besides allowing visitors to experience a monks' life in the temple, parents also sign their children up for short stays to teach them discipline. -
North Korea invites South Korean Buddhist leader to Pyongyang
Yonhap News, Nov 22, 2006
SEOUL, South Korea -- North Korea has invited the head of South Korea's top Buddhist sect, the Jogye Order, to visit Pyongyang before the end of the year, officials at the Buddhist order said Wednesday.
North Korea made the invitation to Ven. Jigwan during a ceremony commemorating a renovation of a temple at North Korea's Mount Geumgang on Sunday, but he replied it would be difficult this year due to his tight schedule, the officials said.
A Jogye Order official said the visit had been discussed since the turn of this year and the two sides agreed that it would take place around Aug. 15, but the plan was delayed due to heavy flooding in North Korea.
Jigwan said there was no reason for him not to visit Pyongyang if his trip could help the nation.
About 700 officials and Buddhists from South and North Korea attended the ceremony to celebrate the restoration of part of Shingye Temple that was burnt down during the 1950-53 Korean War.
In January 2003, the Jogye Order agreed with the (North) Korean Buddhist Federation on restoring the temple on the scenic mountain, which is on the North's east coast. About 80 percent of the temple has been restored.