Interpreting the “Humanistic” in Renjian Fojiao (人間佛教) as Advocated by Venerable Master of

Ven. Miao Guang Deputy Chancellor of FGS Institute of Humanistic

enerable Miao Guang is the personal English interpreter V of Venerable Master Hsing Yun and the Deputy Chancellor of Fo Guang Shan Institute of . Additionally, she currently serves as Adjunct Assistant Professor at ’s Department of Religious Studies in . She is also Director of the Fo Guang Dictionary of Buddhism English Translation Project. 2018 6th Symposium on Humanistic Buddhism 359 Each

1 (Humanistic Renjian Fojiao (Humanistic “What Is ?”. American Humanist American Humanist “What Is Humanism?”.

Century, and is defined in various ways. Literally, and is defined in various ways. Literally, Century, th Sakyamuni Buddha expounded the as his as his Truths expounded the Four Noble Sakyamuni Buddha to examine the elements of The purpose of this paper is concept which arose only recently Western is a ‘‘Humanism’’ Introduction of Humanism Types Association. Retrieved 19 August 2009. Association. Retrieved 19 Edwords, Fred (1989).

the word ‘‘humanism’’ means a devotion to the humanities or or humanities the to devotion a means word ‘‘humanism’’ the and is a rational it Humanism, Cultural Western In culture. literary in ancient Greece and largely empirical tradition that originated approach Western the of part basic a constitutes now and Rome, In Philosophical ethics, and law. to science, political theory, interest. and need on human centered attitude an is it Humanism, that rejects In Modern Humanism, it is a naturalistic upon reason and science, all supernaturalism and relies primarily other hand, Religious On the democracy and human compassion. an Humanism aims to meet human needs based on moral values, joyously. life for living or a rationale of ideals, set inspiring 1 1) very first teachings out of the intention of showing human beings in that to give hope more importantly, and the cause of suffering, is often For this reason, Buddha can be ended. such sufferings in their very doctor who tends to human beings referred to as the fundamental needs: fulfillment in attaining freedom from suffering. As human interests definitions, and values are given broader the diverse in scope, more also becomes much Buddhist movement on various aspects the characteristic of humanism giving Buddhism of life. Buddhism of practices and teachings the in traceable humanism and find relevance between such and Buddhism). 2) in the 19

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Secular Humanism embraces human in general in Humanism the 6 making. or expressed skepticism towards the supernatural. Under such supernatural. towards the expressed skepticism of adjective an as serves word ‘humanistic’ the context, the attaches ‘Buddhism,’ humanism, which when precedes to human beings. primary importance of this religion and religious or waycentered on human interests of life or values. It generally prefers evidence or rational thinking over over thinking or rational evidence prefers generally It Though calling itself or faith. established doctrine in god. faith in man for faith religious, it substitutes ethical and moral without religion or a ethical and moral without religion fundamental concepts is the strongly held viewpoint that that viewpoint held strongly is the concepts fundamental be thoroughly or political—must it religious ideology—be and not simply accepted examined by each individual Along with this, an essential part of or rejected on faith. for search adapting continually a is humanism secular

2. 1. Association, 1997. Merriam-Webster, Nicolas Walter, to human rather than divine or supernatural matters.” Publishing, 2002. English Dictionary, Oxford University Press. 2007. Compact Oxford “humanism

3 2 4 meaning of the word constitutes a different type of humanism, so so of humanism, type a different word constitutes the of meaning as to avoid further confusion caused in the attempt to define each and each of their categorization of humanism meaning, the basic is provided as follows: relevance to religion 360

Interpreting the “Humanistic” in Renjian Fojiao (人間佛教 ) as Advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun of Fo Guang Shan 2018 6th Symposium on Humanistic Buddhism 361 and philosophy. Buddhist . and

science

is “faith in action.” It is an It is an is “faith in action.” truth, primarily through primarily truth, humanism focuses on relying on one’s own efforts to seek seek to own efforts on one’s relying on focuses humanism to entity divine on some depending than rather Truth the humanistic attitude. help, that is, the integration of humanist ethical philosophy with religious religious with philosophy ethical humanist of integration interests, that center on human needs, rituals and beliefs and world same the sharing Though abilities. and with that of Secular Humanism, the same basic principles religion draw a distinction by defining Religious Humanists and social needs of a as that which serves the personal worldview philosophical same the sharing people of group the which offers which can only be met by religion, Furthermore, doctrines. of set universal and lasting most allowed never is doctrine that ensure humanists Religious of meeting human needs to subvert the higher purpose Religious that emphasize They now. and here the in the in belief a god, without a without is Humanism a and without afterlife, in an a belief without supernatural, words, In other values. of moral source “higher” a in belief considered being on evidence based knowledge fully is it preferable. the paradox between this and Buddhism as a lessen To are simply following followers of Buddhism religion, Gautama, a human the instructions given by spiritual experiences, being who, based on his personal to is, that needs, human way to meeting a discovered end sufferings and find happiness, which in the end, may That is to say, lead to a world transcending experience. of god type any on dependence from avert is humanity and enhancement spiritual for or gains for worldly either “The Faith of a Humanist,” UU salvation. In his paper, Minister Kenneth Phifer declares –

3. (The Buddha) Western Humanism is a contemporary belief calling itself Humanism is a contemporary belief calling itself Western God. It in in man for faith faith but substituting religious 2) to naturalism; 1) Supernaturalism a shift from: involves Absolute reality to the the existing; 3) to Transcendental living reality.

Humanism teaches us that it is immoral for God to act act to God for immoral is it that us teaches Humanism crimes and and the wars stop the to must act for us. We of powers have We ages. future and this of brutality the in of freedom have a high degree kind. We a remarkable rests in which we live for the kind of world responsibility within us. of the attainment for Buddhists, same manner, In the unshaken belief While Buddhism as religion encourages me believe Don’t I say. blindly believe what Don’t believe Don’t words. my you of convince others because of whether others, from hear or read, see, you anything teachers or texts. religious authority, Secular Buddhist Humanists, If there were ever those called and humanism between connection close the emphasize To 1. enlightenment or discovery of ways to free oneself from suffering from suffering discovery of ways to free oneself or enlightenment power. not on any divine solely on their efforts, in real life depends open to always remained founder he as the the Buddha, in skepticism. that, even if there were a divine they would be the ones to suggest entity. this or question with disagree to fine perfectly is it entity, to question shows that the right The fact that humans are offered on the personal experiences Buddhism is fully empirical based before faith in this religion is established. examples of humanism regarded religion, the following are some as an essential characteristic of religion: 362

Interpreting the “Humanistic” in Renjian Fojiao (人間佛教 ) as Advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun of Fo Guang Shan 2018 6th Symposium on Humanistic Buddhism 363 Contemporary Humanism incorporates man’s continuity continuity man’s Contemporary Humanism incorporates of the rest the with life of rest the and rest of life, the with is now an Thus the elimination of ‘‘absolutes’’ universe. values and life man’s to approach an and towards attitude interest is: focus The earth. on here life his to confined and in man, concern for man, and faith in his reason truth and goodness. In other words, to perceive conscience a contemporary humanist is a believer of the dignity of or gains worldly for on God dependence of instead man spiritual upliftment and salvation. Neo-Humanism is a form of reaction against the reaction against the Neo-Humanism is a form of resulting from the mechanism and dehumanization by science. Humanism is overconfidence instilled in man of man and his relation now based on our understanding with the environment. What Buddha, Jesus (son of God), and Muhammad God), and Muhammad What Buddha, Jesus (son of were all they is that in common have Allah) of (messenger world to spread a teaching real human beings found in this about a divine state of being. In the Mahabharata, it says that there is nothing superior to it says that there is nothing superior In the Mahabharata, man. his own seek must man each that teaches Indian Buddhism orders to were no permanent divine truth and that there help one in this search. distinguished Tukaram Nanak, as Kabir, Indian sages such of the understanding their sympathy, their with themselves the society of the oppressed section of needs and interests certain deeper sympathies. and their apparent addiction to as ordinary have displayed It is such charismas which they worthy of respect human beings that deemed themselves and following. In the Rigveda, man is described as the “Child of of “Child the is described as man In the Rigveda, Putrah) Immortality” (Amritasya

8. 7. 4. 5. 6. 2. 3. Individual self-culture sublimated into universal into universal Individual self-culture sublimated liberation of mankind. by the demonstrated is Pureland of the conception The humanistic of a model miniature – Buddha’s beings human between differences all where society, would excellence moral and wisdom and disappear, together into a serve as a tie to bind individuals common humanity. Self-transcendence achieved through the idea of of idea the through achieved Self-transcendence or inordinate of egoism extinction the helps craving (source of suffering). In order to achieve the above, the Four Noble Truths Truths the above, the Four Noble In order to achieve by the taught been had Path Noble Eightfold the and beings Buddha to human of drop single a imperative: Not as an ethical Peace Buddha’s of name the in shed been ever has blood by Though Buddhists had been persecuted teaching. , the Middle anti-Buddhist movements in India, king no Buddhist of the world, and other parts East, the for war to resorted have known to is association or propagation of Buddhism. Universal compassion and unconditional compassion Universal compassion and unconditional compassion for all living beings. and help from worldly sufferings free human beings To them to attain happiness.

In Buddhist Humanism the following are emphasized: following are Humanism the In Buddhist vii. vi. iv. v. i. ii. iii.

To sum up, Religious Humanism is the attitude which attaches sum To 9. primary importance to man and his faculties, affairs, temporal temporal his faculties, affairs, primary importance to man and personal experience, and aspirations, and wellbeing: self-effort, a set of doctrine that guides one towards individual and universal liberation. 364

Interpreting the “Humanistic” in Renjian Fojiao (人間佛教 ) as Advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun of Fo Guang Shan 2018 6th Symposium on Humanistic Buddhism 365

5 , Buddhism Humanistic Buddhism, The Fundamental Concepts of Sakyamuni Buddha was born into this world, He cultivated was born into this world, He Sakyamuni Buddha world, in this enlightenment attained himself in this world, this in he realized others the deep truths with and share he everything in was emphasized world human The world. life as a human as being can serve an did… The Buddha’s on our practice spiritual for model and as a inspiration own lives. In order to become a Buddha, it is necessary for one to be In order to become a Buddha, it developed first having of humanity, world the born into rebirths in the into a through countless amount certain a spending then and humanity, of world an Thus Buddhism is largely Heaven. of time in other none and humans, only that principle anthropocentric than humans, may become Buddha. An emphasis on the uniqueness and unavoidability of being being of unavoidability and uniqueness the on emphasis An human – Buddhism values human beings as the highest or most Buddhism as the highest values human beings or most capacity the have beings human only – being of realm ideal Awakening) to develop the (the Bodhi Mind of and subsequently teachings, Buddha’s the by implementing Of all categories of sentient beings, only humans have Of all categories of sentientbeings, only humans have the Buddha’s the capacity of receiving and implementing of the human realm characteristics teachings – Only the for the it possible makes an environment that offers for humans to liberate to be practiced, and and enter (suffering) themselves and others from dukkha ). the realm of the Buddha (i.e. to attain

First, the fact that Buddhism is a thoroughly humanistic humanistic thoroughly a is Buddhism that fact the First, 1) 3) 2) The “Humanistic” Aspects of Buddhism The “Humanistic” Hsing Yun, Hsing Yun, Light Publishing. pp.3-5. in Every Step, vol.2, Buddha’s

5 3) seen in its close relations to humanism: teaching can be (Unsurpassed Awakening), Awakening), (Unsurpassed anuttara samyaksambodhi samyaksambodhi anuttara attain attain conditionality no longer arise. or a state where suffering cultivation path of spiritual a step-by-step Buddhism offers levels and corresponding intermediate leading to several of state the supreme in order to attain personality types, buddhahood.

4) teaching it can be said that the Buddhist Based on the above, as much as great Chinese thinkers such as Secondly, worldly from beings human freeing of goal the With is largely humanistic due to two facts: 1) that humanity is regarded regarded is humanity 1) that two facts: to due humanistic largely is and teachings; Buddha’s the of implementer and object the both as have the ability to liberate themselves2) only humans as well as to the existence of which is inherent other beings from suffering, sentient beings. humanistic teachings, Confucius and Lao-Tzu had pronounced humanistic. called be to claim greater a has probably Buddha to indulging in metaphysical Unlike them, Buddha was averse palace, went outside the first he when that was said It teachings. and a dead man, which made him he saw an old man, a sick man, He then death. sickness, and age, old to he was vulnerable that feel to have renounced household who claimed came across an ascetic After liberation. attain to death, and birth of fear the of out life all to realizations his taught Buddha the enlightened, becoming welfare.beings in hopes of bettering human Out of compassion people to helping rest of his life the he had dedicated for humanity, relieve themselves from afflictions regardless of social status, race, of unconditional an attitude had taught humanity Buddha or belief. and equanimity. kindness, joy, compassion and impartial loving Noble and Truths Noble Four the taught Buddha the sufferings, in the first turning of the Dharma wheel. Stating Eightfold Path which is caused by desires, a path there is suffering that ultimately namely, can be followed to reach the cessation of that suffering, nirvana. In addition, the path stated above is the Eightfold Noble 366

Interpreting the “Humanistic” in Renjian Fojiao (人間佛教 ) as Advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun of Fo Guang Shan 2018 6th Symposium on Humanistic Buddhism 367

6

8 , No. 3, , No. 3, Bulletin of Tibetology

7 , March 7, p. 3. Seikyo Shimbun

[President Ikeda’s Speech at the 15th Headquarters Leaders Leaders Headquarters 15th the at Speech Ikeda’s [President

There exist two major , the the Hinayana major schools of Buddhism, There exist two Buddhism teaches that all people are inherently Buddhas. inherently are Buddhism teaches that all people of humanity embodies a that this Buddhist view I believe world peace. key and fundamental principle for : the four kinds of meditation to give bliss to, and to take : the four kinds of meditation catvāri-apramānāṇi of immeasurable concern of sentient beings; four minds away the suffering for others: maitri, karuna, , and upeska. in Buddhism”, Ashwani. “Humanism Kumar, Meeting].” 1988, p.4. honbu kanbu kai deno meiyokaicho Ikeda, Daisaku. 2002. “Dai 15 kai speech

6 7 8 to aspire for the liberation not just for the self but also for the but also for the just for the self liberation not the to aspire for ideal is to sublimate The Mahayanist rest of the living beings. which humanity, of liberation universal into attainment individual possibility of universal ethics of is how Buddhism envisages the which is just another name for humanism in the sense of humanity, the religion of universal liberation. Path, which consists of a set of guides to how one can live the the live can one how to guides of set a of consists which Path, right right thought, right view, namely, human life accordingly, diligence, right right livelihood, right speech, right conduct, Alltaught out of concerns , right concentration. and attitude humanistic Buddhism’s is this humanity, of welfare the for life is the The Buddhist ideal of human beings. toward all sentient and the cessation of suffering. extinction of egoism, goal of in the ultimate Buddhists, which differ and of goal pursues the ultimately former The existence. human through achieved nirvana individual means which arhathood, latter the while existence; of nature true the into insight gaining four immeasurable, on the bases which bodhisattvahood, pursues are summarized into one are summarized into

9

10 pañca-śīla, the . The philosophy of…Buddhism…undoubtedly represents represents The philosophy of…Buddhism…undoubtedly of forms and systematic comprehensive most the of one with metaphysics, on naturalistic based is It humanism. any theme. Rejecting causal dependence as its central or fatalism, it form of transcendentalism, determinism, his emphasizes its ultimate man and recognizes faith in through his problems power or potentiality in solving primarily upon empirical knowledge, reason reliance and scientific method applied with courage and vision. It of man, not in a transcendental believes in the freedom not is offers it goal highest The and now. here but sphere, otherworldly but this worldly. In sum, it can be said that Buddhist Humanism is founded In sum, it can be said that Buddhist Humanism is founded Buddhism exemplified itself as the earliest forms of religious forms of religious as the earliest exemplified itself Buddhism David J. Kalupahana, ‘Buddhism and Chinese Humanism,’ p.11. A paper paper A p.11. David J. Kalupahana, ‘Buddhism and Chinese Humanism,’ presented at a Symposium on Chinese Humanism, sponsored by the Society sponsored by the on Chinese Humanism, a Symposium at presented of the session a special during Philosophy Comparative Asian and for Association, March 25. American Philosophical The

very basic rule, “do not trespass upon others.” Such is the Buddha’s is the Buddha’s not trespass upon others.” Such very basic rule, “do policy of peace, self-sacrifice, kindness, and generosity which protects and danger. fear, living beings from suffering, 10 9 on faith in the inherent dignity of human beings and profound on profound and beings of human dignity inherent the in faith humanism in the world. The “ideal world” in Buddhism is a world a world in Buddhism is world” “ideal The world. humanism in the sovereign— non-violent and compassionate a by ruled of bliss and does not does not rule by the use of arms, a Chakravartin who but by the means of Dharma.conquer by force Furthermore, the expected to follow which Buddhist practitioners are Buddhist morality misconduct, sexual commit to 3) Not steal, to 2) Not kill, to 1) Not are: 5) Not to take intoxicants 4) Not to lie, and 368

Interpreting the “Humanistic” in Renjian Fojiao (人間佛教 ) as Advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun of Fo Guang Shan 2018 6th Symposium on Humanistic Buddhism 369

11 Action Dharma: Damien Keown, Action Dharma:

, RoutledgeCurzon, 2003. The conception of humanism can be broadened when the when the of humanism can be broadened The conception unknown and meanings that are largely important aspects culture, but are of key or undervalued in contemporary of doctrine it—the to added is Buddhism in importance liberation or emancipation. A broader and more meaningful interpretation of Buddha’s of Buddha’s more meaningful interpretation broader and A of the implementation through gained teachings is could be fundamental tenets of Buddhism humanism – the from comprehensible and more clearly better considerably of contemporary thought and rationality. the point of view

Humanistic Buddhism refers to a Buddhist movement to a Buddhist movement Humanistic Buddhism refers Taiwan. from originated in China and accelerated of Taiwan contribution a greater has been it Therefore that world the to gift a is which Buddhism, modern in of humanity. welfare motivates to the model of social Questions about Humanistic Buddhism have been asked: Questions about Humanistic Buddhism have been asked: More than half a century ago, was no was no Taiwan Buddhism in More than half a century ago, i. ii. Characteristics of Humanistic Buddhism as Advocated by by Advocated Buddhism as Characteristics of Humanistic Yun Hsing Master Venerable Fo Guang Shan’s New Studies in Christopher Queen, Charles S. Prebish,

11 What is Humanistic Buddhism? Who introduced it and when was Who introduced What is Humanistic Buddhism? Buddhism? Should it be it introduced? Is it similar to Engaged Is it actually Buddhism? classified as Neobuddhism? Or 4) confidence in people’s capacity for positive transformation. It is the in the universe. and kindness towards others practice of compassion of Buddhism? an essential characteristic Therefore, is humanism more than just praying to Buddha and burning incense sticks. The incense sticks. burning Buddha and to just praying than more monastic community consisted mostly of the elderly who acted

12 , Vol. 1, 2000, p.58. Vol. Hsi Lai Journal of Humanistic Buddhism, What is human life? I use the term ‘‘human life’’ to to life’’ What is human life? I use term ‘‘human the by the fallacies in the teachings of Buddhism refute teachings may some people in the past. The Buddhist of the death and be divided into two: the Buddhism people thought that the Buddhism of the ghosts. Many of Buddhism is to the aim of learning the teachings way and to have good encounter death in a painless the true meaning of the fortune after death. This is not I human Buddhism, about I talk teaching…As Buddhist of human life. emphasize the improvement The inception of Humanistic Buddhism began with The inception of Humanistic Buddhism began with Darui Long, “Humanistic Buddhism from Venerable Tai Xu to Grand Master Grand Xu to Tai Venerable from Buddhism “Humanistic Long, Darui Hsing Yun”, Hsing Yun”,

12 ” (Human (Human ” Fojiao “Rensheng of introduction ’s Master “Instructions to the Chinese Life Buddhism) in his article, where people were encouraged to Monks” in 1928, Revolutionary these because path bodhisattva the practice good person and a be are considered the prerequisite of Buddhahood. Human beings Life Buddhism, and through a are considered the core of Human of then buddhas, the perfection and to transformation be achieved simultaneously, humanity and enlightenment can mostly as conductors of funeral services, and seldom disseminated and seldom disseminated funeral services, conductors of mostly as the Buddhism Buddhism a form of teaching, let alone promoting as public in admit to willing were people few Very of life. way a as with a belief them would associate as it were Buddhists, they that that is passive and is only a significant part of life when death is means nowadays, being a Buddhist Things have changed involved. Buddhist The others. to concern showing of duty the has one that passive to being has transformed from concept of compassion exclusive to Buddhist beliefs are no longer active. Furthermore, life. but have become a part of daily secluded temples 370

Interpreting the “Humanistic” in Renjian Fojiao (人間佛教 ) as Advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun of Fo Guang Shan 2018 6th Symposium on Humanistic Buddhism 371

13 Humanistic Buddhism for Social Well-Being: An Overview Humanistic Buddhism for Social Well-Being:

Having gained so much popularity in recent times, most times, most so much popularity in recent Having gained Humanistic is, that thought, Buddhist Chinese modern This In Taixu’s mind, the idea is not to avoid this world but to make to but world this avoid to not is idea the mind, Taixu’s In True Humanistic Buddhism attaches more importance importance attaches more Humanistic Buddhism True shows more It knowledge. abstruse to than reality to ” is sometimes defined as “Buddhism “Buddhism as defined ” is sometimes “renjian Although Guruge, Ananda Wp, . Buddha’s Light Publishing. 2003. Light . Buddha’s Interpretation of Grand Master Hsing Yun’s

” (literally Human World Buddhism), or more more or Buddhism), World Human (literally ” Fojiao Renjian 13 a better place out of it in the here and now. His views inspired His views inspired of it in the here and now. a better place out and “revitalizing” generations to take actions in monks of younger monks happened Buddhism. One of those even “revolutionizing” Fo Guang Shan of the founder Yun, Hsing Master Venerable be to Buddhist Order. In fact, most claim to have a humanistic outlook. Buddhist groups but a particular more or less humanistic anyway, such groups are Shan Guang Fo called organization Buddhist modern Chinese of Light Mountain) calls itself an advocate (literally Buddha’s “ Buddhism now. commonly known as Humanistic from time teachings Buddhist of the all encompasses Buddhism, and claims to propagate of Sakyamuni Buddha to the present, is to follow goal The Buddhism.” of Chinese Schools Eight “all sentient all help to strive actively to is, path, that bodhisattva the Buddhism focuses more on themselves. Humanistic beings liberate behind; world the leave how to than rather world the issues of the on benefiting than for the dead; for the living rather on caring salvation universal on and than benefiting oneself; rather others self. rather than salvation just for the between people,” or “Buddhism for human beings,” Venerable Venerable beings,” human for or “Buddhism people,” between an theories of Humanistic Buddhism offer Yun’s Master Hsing even broader perspective, xing-yun--shi-de- 14 15 http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1692238 http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1692238

or

, Commonwealth Publishing, 2005. Furthermore, the purpose of learning and practicing Furthermore, the purpose of learning

16 Humanistic Buddhism in the Hsing Yun Model, Humanistic Buddhism in the Hsing Yun He defines Humanistic Buddhism as a teaching that which as a teaching that which He defines Humanistic Buddhism Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s interpretation perceives the interpretation perceives the Yun’s Master Hsing Venerable not [a] new form of Humanistic Buddhism itself is of the component Buddhism but the new interpretation been imbedded in Buddhist and that has already other . concern to the masses than to the individual self. It lays It self. individual to the the masses than to concern rather than to the individual on society stress strong on society ratherthe than on stress self. It lays strong as I Buddhism mountain monasteries…Humanistic Buddha of the at using the teachings understand it, aims for the improvement for our lives and the purification of teachings of the Buddha take the Dharma our mind. We more life our thus making our life, for basis the as meaningful. significant and The Fundamental Concepts of Humanistic Buddhism, pp.3-5. The Fundamental Concepts of Chinese Origin of Humanistic Buddhism and Master Shanker, Thapa, Dr. Manyi, Hsing Yun’s Contribution in the Contemporary Humanistic Buddhist Contribution in the Contemporary Humanistic Buddhist Yun’s Hsing SSRN: http://ssrn.com/ at Available 14, 2010). (October Taiwan in Movement abstract=1692238 ren-jian-fo-jiao

16 14 15 1) was taught by the Buddha himself, 2) is essential to human human to essential 2) is himself, Buddha by the taught 1) was beings, 3) purifies, 4) beautifies and makes virtuous [all aspects of human life]. real essence of Humanistic Buddhism in that it is Buddhism that in that it is Buddhism that real essence of Humanistic Buddhism for equanimity and joy compassion, loving-kindness, advocates original intention to and that it is Sakyamuni Buddha’s humanity, teach the truth to human beings. 372

Interpreting the “Humanistic” in Renjian Fojiao (人間佛教 ) as Advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun of Fo Guang Shan 2018 6th Symposium on Humanistic Buddhism 373 17 18 1) Individual Harmony achieved through joy. 1) Individual Harmony achieved through deference. 2) Family harmony harmony achieved through respect. 3) Interpersonal achieved through cooperation. 4) Social harmony peace. harmony achieved through World 5) A strong difference between Taiwan’s socially engaged engaged socially Taiwan’s between difference strong A Very frequently, Humanistic Buddhism is designated as a designated as a Humanistic Buddhism is frequently, Very Nhat Thich to attributed is Buddhism” “engaged term The Engaged Buddhism: Buddhist Liberation Movements in Asia, State King and Queen, Engaged Buddhism: Buddhist Liberation Movements in Venerable Master Hsing Yun, “The Value of Faith”, a speech given at the of Faith”, a speech given at the Value “The Yun, Master Hsing Venerable 2012 Summer Davos. University of New York Press. 1996. York University of New

17 18 Buddhism is the attainment of harmony in various aspects of of aspects various in harmony of attainment the is Buddhism human existence: Buddhism and the engaged Buddhism found elsewhere in Asia is is Asia in found elsewhere and the engaged Buddhism Buddhism Buddhism of engaged Manifestations towards politics. in attitudes In Vietnam. in Sri Lanka and are often strongly political, e.g. participation direct reject formally groups most however, Taiwan, while Fo Guang Shan in the political process. For example, and freedoms embraces the rights Yun Hsing Venerable founder parallel of Engaged Buddhism, or Socially Engaged Buddhism, Buddhism, Buddhism, or Socially Engaged parallel of Engaged human welfare. in fact are concerned with because all of them of scope broader much on a focuses Buddhism Humanistic Yet, just the betterment of society, welfare, one that is far greater than well being attained through the but also that of the individual the Dharma. actual practice and realization of that title in 1963, according to Hanh, who published a book by Peace: Essays on Buddhism and World Kenneth Kraft, Inner Peace, Press, 1992), York of New University State (Albany: or outspoken politically meaning “engage,” term French p8. …the involved, was common amongst intellectuals in French Indochina long before the 1960s.

19

20 Schak and Hsin-Huang Michael Hsiao, “Taiwan’s Socially Engaged Socially Engaged Schak and Hsin-Huang Michael Hsiao, “Taiwan’s Asoka: Inspired by the Buddha, his attempt to build a a build to attempt his Buddha, the by Asoka: Inspired of humanism can the principle nation in accordance with be justifiedin a shiftof government policy from military rights. conquest to chartering the citizen who introduced prince Japanese A Shotoku: Prince a , not only built Buddhism to his country, also inspired and an asylum, but a hospital, a dispensary, aids, medical monasteries to built bridges and ferries, offer The Buddha challenged the caste system. He stressed on on stressed He system. caste the challenged Buddha The classes before the law of the equality of humans of all The Dharma. of the law the under ultimately, and, Karma everyone to open is life good that is standpoint Buddha’s by claimable treasure is the common truth highest the and because of castes or everybody; there can be no restriction classes, and gender differences.

Nonetheless, the elements of bettering the human life, be it life, be it elements of bettering the human Nonetheless, the Some examples of Buddhist movements are as follows: Some examples of Buddhist movements 1. 3. 2. David Asia, p.7. Engaged Buddhism: Buddhist Liberation Movements in Buddhist Groups”, http://chinaperspectives.revues.org/2803

Engaged Buddhism or Humanistic Buddhism, share similarity key similarity Buddhism, share or Humanistic Buddhism Engaged for charter a who provides leader a of emergence the 1) elements: new a of symbol a becomes and emulation, for model a change, specifically a this-worldlyorder; 2) role shifts, asceticism directed of the religious goals; and 3) “a rationalization to political and social folk religious elements (such as life” involving the discrediting of and on mental emphasis an and or ritualism) devotionalism theistic and virtuous living. moral development through education 19 20 that are prized in Western democracies, and emphasizes equality equality emphasizes democracies, and Western prized in that are process: as in the political eschews interference he and democracy, concern but do not members, people should “show Fo Guang Shan for policies constitutes interference. interfere”, and lobbying 374

Interpreting the “Humanistic” in Renjian Fojiao (人間佛教 ) as Advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun of Fo Guang Shan 2018 6th Symposium on Humanistic Buddhism 375

Restoration of the Theravadan Bhiksuni Order: The The Order: Bhiksuni Theravadan of the Restoration in Sangha bhiksuni the of restoring concerns and questions to human rights, in and elsewhere drew attention Thailand Through international issue gender equality. the particular, Sri in restored was sangha bhikkhuni the collaboration, the , in 1996 in Buddhism: Lankan Korean order held a historic ordination ceremony for 10 Taiwan’s women from Sri Lanka, and in 1998 in Bodhgaya, Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order hosted an international Sri Lankan twenty a further which at ceremony ordination bhikkhuni were ordained. Nobel Peace Laureate - the Dalai ’s campaign for campaign for Nobel Peace Laureate - the ’s crackdown in 1959. reconciliation since the Chinese Aung San Suu Kyi: Influenced by the Buddhist concept of non-violence, this revolutionary Burmese leader sacrificed relationships withthe good of her country by her fail for peaceful a as arrest house under years 15 spend to choosing the human right to draw attention to resistance and effort patience inclusion, of spirit Her country. her in abuses force for a allow her to be a unifying and forgiveness And the only real “The only prison is fear. divided country. freedom is freedom from fear.” Dr. Ambedkar: Indian’s fiery civil rights leader and civil rights leader and fiery Indian’s Ambedkar: Dr. system, in protest of the unjust caste statesman who, to conversion of Hindus to Buddhism initiated the mass His message to his followers dignity. gain freedom and Agitate! Organize!” was, “Educate! and be involved with other social welfare activities. social welfare with other and be involved of Kambuja VII of Jayavarman inscription Prohm Ta The CE) states 102 hospitals built by this king (1181-1200 houses his people, and also rest to treat across his kingdom along the roads, reservoirs, and other constructions that lives. bettered the people’s

7. 8. 6. 4. 5.

21 , Buddha’s Light Light , Buddha’s Renjian Renjian or Buddhism), Life (Human (Humanistic Buddhism), Buddhist masters such such masters Buddhist Buddhism), (Humanistic Humanistic Buddhism: A Blueprint for Life for Blueprint A Buddhism: Humanistic Venerable Master Hsing Yun: One of the most prominent prominent most the of One Yun: Hsing Master Venerable Fo Guang Shan Order who founded the Buddhist leaders the across temples 200 branch over to umbrella an is that His ideal followers. of two million a following world with Buddhism that ensuring at aims Buddhism of Humanistic is relevant to and fits the needs of modern society so as to harmony from individual, maintain spiritual and physical societal, to the world levels. interpersonal, family, The thriving of Buddhist organizations in Taiwan under under Taiwan in organizations of Buddhist The thriving to a new from China saw who originated Buddhist leaders such as development. Using the terms wave of Buddhist Fojiao Rensheng Fojiao pioneered Yun Hsing and Yen, shun, Sheng Yin Taixu, as of oneness recognition the encouraged that movements practice Bodhisattva altruistic the beings, human amongst for both oneself and from suffering that sought freedom reality so application of Buddhism into others, as well as as to help better society and the world.

That the Humanistic Buddhist movement promoted by movement promoted by That the Humanistic Buddhist 10. 9. Hsing Hsing Yun, Publishing, 2008, p.xxi.

21 Venerable Master Hsing Yun is listed as the final in the list is to as the final in the list is to is listed Yun Master Hsing Venerable With mentioned. that of scopes all the cover ideals his that stress of function the has considered he texts, Buddhist the to references livelihood, emotions, morality, Humanistic Buddhism in ethics, happiness, and life long wealth, piety, filial and loyalty society, and compassion, cause maintaining good health, loving-kindness amusement, and religion, life, knowledge, education and effect, affairs, international government, nature, celebrations, and funerals and the future. It is his hope to help provide a blueprint for life and articulate the ideals of Humanistic Buddhism for all. 376

Interpreting the “Humanistic” in Renjian Fojiao (人間佛教 ) as Advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun of Fo Guang Shan 2018 6th Symposium on Humanistic Buddhism 377 23 . 22 Individual liberation guided by the Buddhist path. by the liberation guided Individual human beings makes The recognition of oneness between liberation whole is in the world “Whatever joy there happiness. wishing for others’ Arises from is in the world Whatever suffering there wishing for your own happiness.” Arises from Transcendental Transcendental Humanism

The fact that Buddhism has been taught to help with the the with to help taught has been Buddhism that fact The Humanistic Buddhism is a basic philosophy of life that of life that a basic philosophy Buddhism is Humanistic of teachings to integrate the Buddha’s encourages us into joyfulness, and equanimity kindness, compassion, well as for the benefit of ourselves as our daily lives the us the ways to cultivate it teaches others. In addition, of all understands the true nature wisdom that clearly things. i. ii. iii. Conclusion Venerable Master Hsing Yun, http://www.ibps.org/english/history/faq.htm Yun, Master Hsing Venerable The path of bodhisattva practice is mentioned as a core idea in ’s Shantideva’s in idea core a as mentioned is practice bodhisattva of path The Bodhicaryavatara

22 23 attainment of personal and worldly well being, it is largely well being, it is largely attainment of personal and worldly holds the purpose of showing humanistic in characteristic and The word Renjian inconcerns for human interestand values. to hold the following purposes Humanistic Buddhism can be said in the attainment of liberation: 5)