at Darling Harbour Happiness and Peace

10th Sat 11th Sun

May 10am-4:30pm 10am-4:30pm

Organised by: 佛光山南天寺 國際佛光會雪梨協會 南天大學 Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple BLIA Sydney Nan Tien Institute Charity Trust were also established in 1970, he Founder of 1975 and 1987 respectively to nurture the T young. The Beautiful Life Television network Fo Guang Shan Venerable was established in 1997, and the first Buddhist daily newspaper ‘Merit Times’ was launched

Master Hsing Yun in 2000. Master Hsing Yun was born in 1927, in

Jiangdu, Jiangsu Province, China. At the age For more than a half century, Master Hsing of twelve, he became ordained under the Yun has devoted his efforts to transform the eminent Master Zhi Kai in Nanjing and had world through the practice of Humanistic “ undertaken studies at various monasteries Buddhism and to realise his vision: and encountered numerous grand masters. Let Buddha’s light illuminate three thousand In 1967, he founded the Fo Guang Shan “realms and Dharma water flow across the Monastery located in Kaoshiung, Taiwan five continents. and established Buddha’s Light International Self-understanding and discipline are the main Association for lay Buddhists in 1991. Under paths to conducting oneself in society. his direction and dedication to spreading the Tolerating and helping others is the balm in Dharma, Fo Guang Shan now consists of establishing good relationships. over 200 branch temples in five continents, 16 Buddhist colleges, Fo Guang University, Learning Buddhism is to learn mainly about Nanhua University in Taiwan, University of yourself; so you must search for, and inquire the West in Los Angeles and Nan tien Institute into the original mind. in Wollongong. Learning Ch’an is to apply your own mind; so In addition, nine art galleries, twenty-six you must investigate and study the real self. libraries, more than three publishing houses, In the pursuit of learning, have a joyful attitude. twelve bookstores, the Cloud and Water In the face of advice, keep an open mind. Mobile Clinic, over fifty Chinese language schools, sixteen Buddhist colleges, three In taking on responsibility, have courage. Secondary Schools and five Universities In dealing with others, remain respectful. have been established. A Children’s Home, Dharma words by Fo Guang Nursing Home and Fo Guang Shan Venerable Master Hsing Yun One-stroke Calligraphy “Everyone is a Buddha!”said Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Putting aside the question of “who is actually a Buddha?” it can at least be said that Venerable Master Hsing Yun is a bodhisattva who never tires. Turning 88 years old this year, he has faced over 40 years of diabetes that led to a serious eye condition, along with retinal detachment. With unclear visions in both eyes, he can barely see. Despite having to write calligraphy with shaking hands, he still is able to let his heart guide his hands in completing the extremely rare “one-stroke calligraphy.” “One-stroke Calligraphy” means that every piece of calligraphy written by Venerable Master is done in one stroke. No discontinuation is allowed from beginning to end, as discontinuation will make it difficult to continue to the next character because his vision does not allow him to distinguish the distance between each character.

3 Message from Head Abbess of Fo Guang Shan in Australia

I would like to express my gratitude to all sponsors, City of Sydney, SHFA, media friends, Buddhist and interfaith friends, community friends, Buddha’s Light International Association of Sydney and all the volunteers for your support because this event would not be a success without you.

The Buddha’s birthday is one of the oldest international birthday festival of an historical figure, also recognised by the United Nations. Buddhists around the world celebrate by bathing the prince Siddhartha. Bathing the Buddha serves as a reminder to cleanse our body, speech and mind with compassion, wisdom, and peace.

To actualize the messages of the Buddha on compassion, wisdom, and peace, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan, promoted the Three Acts of Goodness: Do Good Deeds, Say Good Words, and Think Good Thoughts. Through these three Acts, we can develop harmony in our relationships, in society, and even in the world.

May all be blessed with happiness and peace.

Have a Happy Buddha’s Birthday!

Man Ko Message from President of BLIA

Welcome to our “2014 Buddha’s Birthday & Mother’s Day Celebration”. This year marks our 20th anniversary of celebrating Buddha’s Birthday at Darling Harbour. It is indeed a major milestone for all of us.

This year, for the first time, the Buddha’s Birthday Celebration extends its venue along the Urban Stream with various attractive cultural stalls and exhibitions. Our celebration and presentation focuses on Fo Guang Shan’s four key values & objectives, including the Cultural Activities, Education, Charity, and Purifying Hearts & Minds.

Our theme for this year’s Buddha’s Birthday Celebration is “Happiness and Peace”. Indeed, happiness and peace are mostly sought after by individual, families, organizations, the society and the world. How can we achieve happiness and peace? Buddha taught us to be compassionate, tolerance, acceptance thanks-giving. As a Buddhist, my view of happiness is simple – contentment and satisfaction, serving the society, helping others to achieve their goals, giving, and appreciation. Buddha also taught us equality, respectful and forgiving. We can work our way progressively to achieve peace by respecting each other, be kind and be forgiveness to each other, to build a harmonized relationship with each other. Working together, we can achieve happiness, we can contribute to change the world for a better place.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, our reverends, our distinguished guests, our sponsors, media friends, BLIA members and all our volunteers for your support, efforts and contributions to organize this major event.

Francis Wong 5 What is Humanistic Buddhism? Buddhism is a philosophy, a moral code and a religious faith which provides teachings and The Four Principles of the guidance to liberate mankind from suffering, integrating spirituality into people’s daily lives so Buddha’s Light International that it is a ‘practical’ way of living, not just a practice for reclusive hermits. Association Humanistic Buddhism encourages one to cultivate and integrate the Buddha’s teachings of tolerance, loving-kindness, compassion, joy and equanimity into our daily life for the benefit of all • To propagate Buddhism beings. It is to build a harmonious society through helping those in need, radiating those virtues through culture from within ourselves to our family, society, nation and the world at large. • To foster talent through education When we give faith, hope, joy, and service, we are helping all beings as well as ourselves. When • To benefit society through charity we actualize altruism, joyfulness, and universality, we are practicing the fundamental concepts of Humanistic Buddhism. • To purify body and mind through With an emphasis on “not needing to go some place else to find enlightenment”, we can realize spiritual cultivation our true nature here and now, within this precious human birth and this world. That is the true practice of Humanistic Buddhism. Buddhist and non-Buddhist alike. The temple’s activities Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien are very diverse. Besides Dharma services, there are also regular classes such as tai-chi, vegetarian cooking (ALSO KNOWN AS IBAA) Temple and meditation to suit people from all walks of life. Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order was founded by Venerable Master Hsing Yun in 1967. With On 11th September 2001, the City Council of Wollongong over 200 branches worldwide, its primary donated a parcel of land just opposite Nan Tien Temple aim is to promote Humanistic Buddhism. on which Nan Tien Institute is built. The Institute is in Nan Tien Temple is situated at Berkeley – an outskirt an exquisite setting and combines the best features suburb of Wollongong in the state of New South Wales. of Western and Asian cultures. It will enhance the It is one of the branch temples of Fo Guang Shan educational environment of Wollongong and complement Buddhist Order. “Nan Tien” in Chinese, literally means the cultural diversity of the city. Nan Tien Temple will “Paradise of the South.” It is the biggest Buddhist temple continue its endeavour in bridging the gap between in the southern hemisphere. cultures and religions, as well as creating a pureland Since the grand opening in 1995, Nan Tien Temple has on earth under the following objectives: to propagate enthusiastically been providing religious, educational, Buddhist teachings through cultural activities; to foster community, charitable and cultural services to both talents through education; to benefit society through charitable programs; and to purify human hearts and minds through Buddhist practices.

南天寺 NanTienTemple • 02-4272 0600 180 Berkeley Road Berkeley NSW 2506 南天講堂 IBAA Parramatta • 02-9893 9390 22 Cowper St, Parramatta NSW 2150 北雪梨佛光緣 IBAA Chatswood • 02-9410 0387 4 Spring St, Chatswood NSW 2067 南雪梨佛光緣 IBAA Kogarah • 02-9553-6533 247 Princes Highway, Kogarah NSW 2217 www.nantien.org.au 7 BLIA Sydney What Is BLIA? BLIA (Buddha’s Light International Association) is an organisation consisting of lay Buddhists who observe the practice of Humanistic Buddhism in daily life. Its primary objective is to serve all beings, to spread a joyous spirit amongst people and to nurture the virtue of compassion. It places emphasis on education, culture, cultivation and service. Over 100 BLIA chapters have been established around the world to date, in the United States of America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Russia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Japan, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, India, Brazil, Argentina, Africa and other regions. There are currently more than one million members worldwide. In 2003, two major agencies of the United Nations, the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC) and UN’s Department of Our Goals Public Information (UNDPI), granted special consultative status to BLIA. • To promote Humanistic Buddhism About BLIA Sydney • To establish a purified society The BLIA Sydney was formed in June 1991 by a group of devotees • To cultivate purity in our hearts and minds dedicated to the propagation of the Dharma, cultural exchange, education and charity work. • To realise peace on earth The Association engages in activities that are beneficial to society at large. In Australia and New Zealand, the Association participates in BLIA Sydney activities such as Clean Up Australia Day, National Tree Planting Day 22 Cowper St., Parramatta and the Buddha’s Birthday Multicultural Festival. It also participates in NSW 2150 Australia many local community activities frequently, e.g. visiting nursing home, Tel: 02-9893 9390 Email: [email protected] blood donation, fundraising for natural disasters etc. www.blia.org.au BLIA Sydney

Donation to Charity Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple and Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Sydney co-organise the 2014 Buddha’s Birthday and Mother’s Day Celebration at Darling Harbour, being the 20th Anniversary of the auspicious event. Celebrating the birthday of the Buddha, devotees are grateful that the Buddha has taught us to extend “loving kindness and compassion to all” in building up a caring and harmonious society.

While we are celebrating the Buddha’s Birthday and expressing gratitude to all Mothers, how can we expand loving kindness and compassion to all human kind? Opportunity arises for us to participate in a very meaningful charitable act by sponsoring the donation of wheel chairs to people in need. On 11 May 2014 at the Buddha’s Birthday Festival at Darling Harbour, the Nan Tien Temple and BLIA Sydney will donate wheel “A life of giving is rich” chairs to nursing homes, disability homes, and charitable organisations. 9 南天大學鳥瞰圖 將智慧留給人間 把大學留給社會

Reserving Wisdom For Ourselves While Providing a University to the World

澳洲佛光山南天寺 國際佛光會雪梨協會 Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple BLIA Sydney Australia

Nan Tien Institute Many years of planning have finally seen the sprouting of the Nan Tien institute in Wollongong, New South Wales. Nan Tien Institute is Australia’s first institute of higher learning grounded in humanistic Buddhist wisdom and values. With a vision to provide the local region a place for the exchange of western and oriental arts and culture, the Institute’s aim is to broaden students’ knowledge and religious perspectives with arts, philosophy and humanities subjects. Through innovative and distinctive tutorial systems, which support our students academically, these subjects have the potential to enrich and enhance one’s life. Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order also established the University of the West in Los Angeles, California, Nanhua University and Fo Guang University in Taiwan. We are part of a dynamic international learning community that fosters the importance of learning as a life-long quest for knowledge, skills and wisdoms. Ground consolidation works have commenced on site. The first building will be a multipurpose building incorporating teaching and academic areas, museum and art gallery, library, auditorium, shops, cafe and student facilities. The first building is projected to be completed in 2014. In the mean time Nan Tien Institute is offering courses in the Nan Tien Temple premises. For more information about our courses, please visit www.nantien.edu.au 11 Happiness and Peace

How do we attain peace and happiness in life? Venerable Master Hsing Yun offers the following four suggestions:

I.Happiness and peace come from detachment and contentment Detachment and contentment means: there are things we should do, things we should not do in life; there are things that we should desire, things we should not desire in our minds. When we can be content, we will not be enslaved by life and will be able to settle both body and mind to enjoy the wealth and happiness of contentment. Therefore, detachment and contentment are true wealth, and people who In picking up, we are picking up right mindfulness, right actions, understand detachment and contentment will naturally have happiness right speech, right thought, compassion, morality, good conditions, and peace in life. and diligence. In letting go, we should have the flexibility to be big or to be small, to give or to take, to have or not to have, and to stay high or to lie low. II.Happiness and peace come from compassion and tolerance Looking at the conflicts in this world, they are usually caused by We should let go of our greed for fame and gain as well as the intolerance between different nations, cultures, races, and religions. attachment to troubles and defilements. We should even let go of Poverty gaps and social stratification are the causes of various the delusive thought of having to let go of something. Just as the conflicts, a problem faced by humanity as a whole. If we wish to be free Sixth Patriarch Huineng indicated, “Inherently, there is no thing, from these dilemmas, compassion and tolerance are the only solution. where can it attract dust?” this is true letting go. As the saying Only compassion and tolerance can awaken people’s morals and goes, “With a troubled mind, even heaven and earth become small; conscience for society to flourish and improve. Only compassion and with a mind at ease, just a bed can be big and broad.” Once we let tolerance can help to resolve conflicts, prevent wars; only compassion go of our attachments, we will be so carefree and at ease! can enhance and sustain world peace.

IV.Happiness and peace come from altruism and selflessness III.Happiness and peace come from letting go and picking up with perfect ease In daily life, each and every thought can be a point for cultivation. If we can face the world with selflessness, altruism, detachment, and no desires, then we will naturally have respect and tolerance for everything. As such, our lives will benefit so much more, and happiness and peace will come naturally.

To sum up, happiness and peace are what everyone seeks and the vision all humanity strives to attain. A happy outlook in life brings peace in living. It is my hope that all friends from all directions can nurture a character of contentment and detachment, have a mind of compassion and tolerance, learn to pick up and let go with perfect ease, and achieve a character of selflessness and altruism. Let us work together, contribute to the happiness and peace of humanity, and build a “Humanistic Buddhaland” that is filled with happiness and peace here and now.

Last but not least, may your hearts be filled with Dharma joy, and may each and every one of you live a life of happiness and peace.

13 世人的尊敬，並不在他擁有良田萬頃、華廈千間，而是他們 幸福與安樂 以無為有，在淡泊知足中涵養了自己的道德人格，為後人示 範 了「空 無 」的 生 命 哲 理 。 星雲大師

2、 慈悲包容是幸福安樂 如何獲得人生的幸福安樂？以下提出四點意見： 綜觀世間上的紛爭，往往是起因於不同國家、文化、族群、宗

教彼此不能互相包容，社會上的貧富懸殊、階級不平等，才 1、 淡泊知足是幸福安樂 導致種種的對立，這也是當今全人類必須共同面對的問題。 所謂「人到無求品自高」，一個人雖沒有華服莊嚴，沒有美食 要走出這樣的困境，只有慈悲與包容。慈悲包容才能喚醒人 欲樂的享受，但是他不貪求，人品道德自然高貴。淡泊無求的 們的道德良知，社會繁榮進步；才能化解紛爭，免去戰爭毀 人，不會有嫉妒比較，不會與人對立爭執，處人處事不會囂張 滅；才能永續長存，促進世界和平。 傲慢，凡事隨遇而安。好比歷史上很多的賢德之士，他們受到 3、 提放自如是幸福安樂 求 的 態 度 來 處 世 應 對 ，自 然 會 去 尊 重 別 人 ，包 容 一 切 ，自 人在世間上要提起，是要提起正念、提起正行、提起正語、提 己人生反而會獲得更多，幸福快樂也會隨之而來。 起 正 見 、提 起 慈 悲 、提 起 道 德 、提 起 善 緣 、提 起 精 進 。放 下，必 綜合以上所說，幸福安樂，是每個人所渴求，也是全人 須 能 大 能 小 、能 屈 能 伸 、能 有 能 無 、能 高 能 低 ；放 下 對 名 聞 利 養 類所追求的願景，有幸福的人生觀才有安樂的生活。希望 的貪取，放下對煩惱憂悲的執著，甚至放下對「放下」的妄念， 大 家 都 能 涵 養「知 足 淡 泊」的 性 格 ，擁 有「慈 悲 包 容」的 直到無一法可放捨，如六祖惠能大師說的：「本來無一物，何處 心 胸 ，學習「提 放 自 如」的 灑 脫 自 在 ，圓滿「無 私 無 執 」的 惹塵埃？」這就是真正的放下。所謂「心中有事天地小，心中無 人格，共同為人類的幸福與安樂奉獻心力，創造一個現 事一床寬」，人一旦放下心中的執著，是何等逍遙自在！ 世 幸 福 安 樂 的「人 間 佛 國」。

4、 無私無我是幸福安樂 最後，祝福大家法喜充滿，人人擁有幸福安樂的人生！

人生最大的缺點，往往是從私心、執著而來。因此佛教主張以 節錄自《2012國際佛光會第十四次世界會員代表大會》 慈悲提升道德人格，以理智淨化世俗感情。所以，在我們的生 活 中，舉 心 動 念 都 可 以 修 行 。凡 事 都 能 以 無 私 、無 我 、無 執 、無 演 講 主 題《 幸 福 與 安 樂 》

15 The uniquely honored one in the world. A Prayer for You took seven steps – Clusters of lotus flowers appeared – And used the pure and clean Buddha-truth, Buddha’s Birthday Like water, to wash away the stains of earthly illusion. By Venerable Master Hsing Yun

Immediately – Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, Muddy mountain streams became crystal clear, We are here to sincerely pay respect Burned-out torches flourished, Your birth into this world. The heavens played wonderful music, The earth displayed rare, auspicious signs; When all the flowers bloomed All these signs were welcoming your arrival During the warmth of spring, To this world. Exotic flowers were contending Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, In beauty and fascination in Lumbini garden; Because of your birth in this mundane world Everyone in Kapilavatthu was rejoicing, Your forty-nine years of teaching the Dharma Gentle breezes spread the fragrance, Will have influence far more than countless kalpas! All birds sang in unison; The three-hundred-plus meetings to discuss the sutras From that moment on, Will benefit far more than countless sentient beings! There was promise in the human world, From that moment on, Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, There were Buddha teachings in the human world. It was you Who broke the caste system, Who preached the doctrine of conditional causation You, with one hand pointed to the sky And the equality of all beings, And the other pointed to the earth, Who opened all beings’ minds To the Buddha wisdom and views, Issued the declaration of being Who awakened all sentient beings out of ignorance. I am offering my sincere devotion, I pray and hope that your Buddha-virtue Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, Brightens the world In order to receive the joyous occasion And that you always preach the Buddha-truth. Of your birth to the mundane world with respect, In some places, full of joyful atmosphere, Please allow me to act in response to, People decorate with lanterns and colored hangings; Your Buddha eye In some places, people parade, And clearly see and understand the suffering of all beings. And the sound of gongs and drums shake the sky; Please allow me to act in response to Monasteries hold the ceremony of bathing Your Buddha mouth The image of the Buddha, And delight in saying wonderful and kind words; Devotees and their families Please allow me to act in response to Celebrate the Buddha’s birthday. Your Buddha body and often be a friend willing to help; Please allow me to act in response to This is how your followers commemorate Your Buddha mind and do more deeds to benefit all beings. Your gracious kindness! This is how your followers remember Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, Your blessings and protection with gratitude! We are willing to use our entire life Oh Great, compassionate Buddha, To expound and propagate the truth; Please pity my hopelessness and lack of virtue We are willing to devote our life With compassion, I can only chant your great, sacred name To liberate all sentient beings. Mindfully, as though remembering, my own kind mother. Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, Please accept my sincere prayers! I am kneeling in front of you, I am passing my hands over your golden body, Na Mo Sakyamuni Buddha 17 由 於 您 降 誕 在娑 婆 世界， 佛誕節祈願文 四十九 年 的 說 法， 星雲大師 何止影響三大阿僧祇劫！ 三百 餘 會 的 談 經， 何止百千萬億眾生蒙 福！ 慈悲偉大的 佛 陀！ 我 們 在 此 地 虔 誠 恭 敬 地 禮 拜， 慈悲偉大的 佛 陀！ 因 為 您 誕 生 到 世 間 來 了。 是您，打破世間階級的制度， 在春暖花開的時候， 是 您，宣 說 緣 起 平 等 的 法 門， 藍毘 尼園 裡奇葩爭 妍， 是 您，開 示眾 生 佛 陀 的 知見， 迦毘羅衛國中萬眾歡騰， 是 您，喚 醒 廣 大 有情 的 沉 迷。 和風 吹 拂 芳香， 眾鳥 齊 聲 歌 唱， 從此人間有了光明， 從此人間有了佛法。 您一手指天，一手指地， 發 出 天 上 天下，唯 我 獨 尊 的 宣 言。 您 腳 踏 七 步，蓮 花 朵 朵， 用清 淨 法水 洗 頓 時， 溷 濁 的 溪 水 變 得 清 澈， 燃 盡 的 薪 火 熾 盛 起 來， 天 空奏 著 優 美 的 音 樂， 地 上 出 現 稀 有的 瑞 相， 這 些 都是 在 歡 迎 聖 者 您光 臨 世 間。

慈悲偉大的 佛 陀！ 佛 陀！慈悲偉大的 佛 陀！ 樂 說 妙 善 之 語； 恭逢您降誕在娑婆世界， 讓 我 與 您 的 佛 身 相 應， 滌 娑 婆 塵 土。 常 做 不 請 之 友； 有的 地 方 張 燈 結 綵， 讓 我 與 您 的 佛 心 相 應， 喜 氣 洋 洋； 多行 利生之事。 有的地方民眾巡 行， 鑼 鼓 喧 天； 慈悲偉大的 佛 陀！ 寺 院 舉 行 浴 佛 典 禮， 我 們 願 盡 形 壽，闡 揚 真 理； 信徒全家 慶祝 佛 誕。 我 們 願 獻 身 命，廣 度 有情。 這 是佛 子 們 在紀 念 您的恩 德！ 這 是佛 子 們 在 感 念 您的 福 佑！ 慈悲偉大的 佛 陀！ 請 您 接 受 我 至誠 的 祈 願， 啊！偉大的 佛 陀！ 請 您 接 受我 至誠 的 祈願。 請 悲 憐 我 福 薄 德 淺， 南無本師釋迦牟尼佛 只能 以思 念慈母 的 心 情， 稱 念 您 偉大 的 聖 號。

慈悲偉大的 佛 陀！ 我 用 雙 膝 跪 在 您 的 座 下， 我用雙手撫摩您的金身， 我 奉 上心香 一 瓣， 祝禱您佛德增輝，法輪常轉。 讓 我 與 您 的 佛 眼 相 應， 洞 察 眾 生 之苦； 讓 我 與 您 的 佛 口 相 應， 19 About Buddha’s Birthday It’s origin The festival celebrates the birthday of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who was to become Sakyamuni Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Prince Siddhartha was born on the 8th day of the fourth lunar month or on the day of the full moon in May over 2,550 years ago in Lumbini, Kapilavatsu in Northern India near the present border of Nepal.

The Legend According to the legend of Prince Siddhartha’s birth, his mother Queen Maya was travelling home to see her parents and had stopped to rest in the lush Gardens of Lumbini where she went into labour. It is said that auspicious signs herald his birth, the sky was clear with brilliant sunshine, flowers bloomed and birds sang. Soon after his birth nine heavenly dragons appeared and emitted two steams, one cool and one warm, of the purest fragrant rain from their mouths that gently cascaded to bathe the newly born Prince. The baby Prince immediately took seven steps and seven lotus flowers sprang from beneath his feet. Flowers drifted down from the heavens. The young Prince purified in body and mind from the rain, pointed one hand towards the heavens and one towards the earth and he said, “Heaven above and earth beneath, I am the Honoured One, the One who liberates all who suffer in the Three Realms” Prince Siddhartha’s journey to become Buddha After the birth of the Prince, he was examined by holy men who announced that he would become a great religious leader. His father King Suddhodana wanted him to follow in his footsteps and thus set about providing a life of luxury, sheltered the child prince from the world’s miseries. When Siddhartha was a young man, he was at last allowed to venture from the palace. In the town, he saw four sights: a decrepit old man, a person racked with disease, a corpse and a holy man. Thus he learnt of life’s inevitable sufferings of old age, sickness and death, and the transcient nature of all worldly pleasures. Siddhartha also recognised that the holy man had found peace in spite of life’s misery. Determined to find a way to be free from earthly troubles, not just for himself but for all sentient beings, Prince Siddhartha renounced his crown and left his young wife and son to embark on a journey to seek the ultimate truth. It was only after years of cultivation that he attained supreme enlightenment and was henceforth known as Sakyamuni Buddha. With endless compassion, Sakyamuni Buddha shared his teachings with his followers so that they too could discover the Middle Path to end all suffering and become a Buddha one day. Hence, a Buddha is not a god, but one who, through complete wisdom and compassion, has attained full enlightenment and is thus beyond the cycle of birth, death and rebirth. 21 The Value of the “Three Acts of Goodness”

Fo Guang Shan advocates the “The Three Acts of Goodness,” which are say good words, do good deeds and thinking good thoughts.

In Humble Table, Wise Fare there is the following verse:

Say good words of compassion and kindness, for they are like the sun in winter – Encouragements and praises profuse like the scent of a hundred flowers everywhere. Do good deeds, for simple acts of kindness beget wondrous merits – Service and contribution shine like the full moon high above. Think good thoughts, for honesty and benevolence bring good fortune – With sages and saints in the mind, it is like reaping a good harvest. Let us all come together to pursue the “Three Acts of Goodness,” always striving to say good words, do good deeds, and think good thoughts.

~Excerpt from: Between Ignorance and Enlightenment V –Let Go, Move On by Venerable Master Hsing Yun 三好運動

人 間 最美 是 三 好，學 會三 好 最自豪，說 好 話，做 好事，存 好 心， 三 好 無 比 好。 你 聽！說 好 話，慈悲愛語如冬陽，鼓勵讚美， 就 像百花 處 處香； 你 看！做 好事，舉手之勞功德妙，服務奉獻，就像滿月高空照； 你想！存 好 心，誠意善緣好運到，心有聖 賢，就像良田收 成 好。 我說 好話，你做 好事，他 存好 心，你也 好，我也 好，他 也 好， 大家一起好，平安就是我們的人間寶。 人間最美是三好，實踐三好最重要。

13 Painted by Billy’s

would become a great king of the world if he remained a layperson, or he would become one who liberates sentient beings if he left the home From Prince life. On the seventh day after Siddhartha’s birth, Queen Māyā died. Her sister, Queen Mahāpajāpatī, lovingly raised the child as her own. to Buddha The prince grew into a young man who was greatly admired for his strength, intelligence, dignity, and beauty. When Siddhartha reached The Buddha was born between 600 – 500 BCE in the kingdom of marrying age, King Śuddhodana arranged for his son to take a wife. Kapilavastu, in present-day southern Nepal, which was ruled by the Yaśodharā, the beautiful daughter of a Śākya nobleman, was chosen. Śākyas. The Buddha’s father, Śuddhodana, was king of the Śākyas, and his mother, Māyādevī. One day, Siddhartha told his father that he wished to travel outside the palace walls to see the kingdom. What Siddhartha saw shocked him. At the end of spring, Queen Māyā gave birth to a prince in Lumbini The prince and Chandaka, his personal charioteer, saw a frail-looking Garden. The prince was named Siddhartha. As was the custom, man who was bent over with age, a man who was extremely sick, King Śuddhodana summoned the most learned wise men to foretell as well as a funeral procession. Finally, Siddhartha and Chandaka his son’s destiny. The renowned sage Asita predicted that Siddhartha encountered an ascetic who walked towards them. The prince asked him who he was, and the man explained that he had renounced his mind—greed, anger, and ignorance—as well as Mara, the world to seek liberation from the suffering of old age, the king of the demons. After defeating Mara, Siddhartha sickness, and death. Siddhartha’s heart filled with joy, and he entered a deep meditative state called samādhi, and attained thought of taking up the life of a wandering ascetic. complete awakening. He was thirty-five years old. From this moment forth, he was known as Śākyamuni Buddha.

Not long afterward, the prince decided to leave the palace to seek liberation from old age, sickness, and death. What the Buddha awakened to that night was the root of suffering, ignorance, and a path to remove suffering. After his awakening, the Buddha spent forty-five years teaching Siddhartha sought teachers to learn how to be free from old the Dharma. At the age of eighty, under a pair of sāla trees, age, sickness, and death. As an ascetic he practiced fasting the Buddha entered final nirvāṇa. The legacy he left his and meditated under extreme conditions of hardship and disciples was profound, for the Buddha had dedicated his deprivation. After six years had passed in this way, Siddhartha earthly life to teaching others the path to awakening. was near death. He realized that complete liberation still eluded him, so he abandoned asceticism.

After accepting an offering of milk rice and with his strength returned, Siddhartha traveled to Bodhgaya where he seated himself beneath a tree that would later be known as the “bodhi tree,” and began to meditate. He swore that he would not stir from his seat, even at the cost of his life, until he had liberated himself from the cycle of birth and death and attained awakening.

Sitting in meditation, Siddhartha conquered the demons of

25 steeped with special herbs over the statue of athing of the infant Buddha, afterwards the image B is rinsed with purified water. The Buddha Ritual The ritual performed with reverence and Buddhists all over the world continue a purified mind is said to improve harmony to celebrate the Buddha’s birthday by and inner balance, leading to a flourishing, the tradition of bathing the little Buddha fulfilling, wholesome, blissful and with fragrant water. As a symbol of inner enlightened life. purification, the tradition is said to assist with the purgation of sins. A universal message Steps to Bathing the Buddha that: Whilst kneeling before the altar, carefully fill It’s simple to wash away physical dirt but it is the ladle and pour water over the shoulder of much more difficult to cleanse one’s inner dirt the image of the young Buddha. of greed, anger and ignorance. At each pour chant the following – For the bathing ceremony the altar is arranged as a flower garden, representing the Garden of • 1st wash: May I eliminate all evil thoughts Lumbini. In following with tradition, monks and • 2nd wash: May I cultivate good deeds nuns use a special ladle to pour fragrant water • 3rd wash: May I help save all living beings Buddha’s Blessings For All Mothers However much we love our mothers, it can be hard to find the words to tell her just how much she means to us. Mother’s Day is a celebration honoring mothers and motherhood. During this Buddha’s Birthday celebration, Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple will conduct a blessing service for all mothers. Through this special Dharma service, we express our heartfelt love, appreciation and gratitude to all mothers for everything they have done for us over the years. May all mothers and their loving families receive Buddha’s blessing & protection, and enjoy a healthy and happy life.

27 Prince Siddhartha Costume Competition To celebrate the birth of the Buddha, we encourage all children to dress up like a little Prince and Princess, and participate in our ‘Little Prince Talent Show’. The Talent Show aims at celebrating the birth of the Buddha, blessing families and educating children on the Three Acts of Goodness. We believe everyone can become a Buddha through self-cultivation. We hope children can grow up practising positive Buddhist philosophies and values. Baby Blessing Ceremony A newborn is a gift of hope and a promise to ourselves and to the world at large; a continuation of the power of life expressed in the new little face you hold before you. Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple is pleased to present the Buddha’s Day Baby Blessing Ceremony,where children under the age of five will be blessed by the Venerables of Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple, so that they may live a happy and fulfilled life under the protection and guidance of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas.

29 2014 Buddha’s Birthday Multicultural Festival Program 佛誕節慶典大會活動表

Saturday 10 May 2014 五月十日 (星期六) 10:00am Lion Dance 祥獅獻瑞 Tumbalong Park 10:30am Purification Ceremony 灑淨祈福典禮 Tumbalong Park Master Hsing Yun One Stroke Urban Stream 10:00am-4:00pm 星雲大師一筆字書法展 Calligraphy Exhibition (Marquee 18) 10:00am-4:00pm Lumbini Garden 蓝毗尼园 Tumbalong Park 10:00am-4:00pm Tea Ceremony 茶禪 Urban Stream (Marquee 17) Buddha’s Birthday Education 佛誕教育特展 & Urban Stream 10:00am-4:00pm Project Exhibition & Animation 佛誕系列動畫 (Marquee 7-8) 11:20am-12:00pm Multicultural Performances 多元文化藝術表演 Tumbalong Park 12:00pm Alms Round 行腳托缽 Tumbalong Park Dharma Talk: Parading the Tumbalong Park 12:00pm-12:30pm 佛學講座 Buddha by Dr. Chris Zalawski Marquee No. 24 1:00pm-1:30pm Multicultural Performances 多元文化藝術表演 Tumbalong Park Children’s Buddha’s Birthday Urban Stream 1:00pm-2:00pm 兒童佛誕 生日派對 Party (Marquee 8) 1:30pm-2:10pm Mother’s Day Blessing Ceremony 慶祝母親節祈福法會 Tumbalong Park Baby Blessing & Draw lots 佛光寶寶生命 禮俗 2:10pm-2:50pm Tumbalong Park Ceremony 暨「傳 藝 抓 周」 3:00pm-4:00pm Multicultural Performances 多元文化表演 Tumbalong Park Dharma Talk: Living Affinity Tumbalong Park 3:30pm-4:00pm 佛學講座 By Venerable Marquee No. 24 4:30pm Completion of the Day 活動圓滿 2014 Buddha’s Birthday Multicultural Festival Program 佛誕節慶典大會活動表

Sunday 11 May 2014 五月十一日 (星期日) 09:40am 24 Seasons Drum、Lion Dance 24節令鼓、祥獅獻瑞 Tumbalong Park

Buddha’s Birthday Festival 佛誕節慶典大會 10:00am Official Ceremony Tumbalong Park Urban Stream 10:00am-4:00pm Master Hsing Yun One Stroke 星雲大師一筆字書法展 Calligraphy Exhibition (Marquee 18) 10:00am-4:00pm Lumbini Garden 蓝毗尼园 Tumbalong Park Urban Stream 10:00am-4:00pm Tea Ceremony 茶禪 (Marquee 17) Buddha’s Birthday Education 佛誕教育特展 & Urban Stream 10:00am-4:00pm Project Exhibition & Animation 佛誕系列動畫 (Marquee 7-8) 12:00pm-1:00pm Multicultural Performances 多元文化藝術表演 Tumbalong Park 1:00pm Alms Round 行腳托缽 Tumbalong Park Children’s Buddha’s 1:30pm-2:30pm 兒童佛誕 生日派對 Urban Stream (Marquee 8) Birthday Party Prince Siddhartha 2:30pm-3:30pm 悉達多太子創意裝扮比賽 Tumbalong Park Costume Competition Dharma Talk: Happiness and Tumbalong Park 3:00pm-3:30pm 佛學講座 Peace by Venerable Marquee No. 24 3:50pm- 4:30pm Multicultural Performances 多元文化藝術表演 Tumbalong Park 4:30 pm Completion of the Festival 佛誕慶典圓滿

Multicultural Vegetarian Food Fair 多元文化素食 Malaysia 馬來西亞 Singapore 新加坡 Hong Kong 香港 Indonesia 印尼 Taiwan 台灣 Japan 日本 India 印度 China 中國 Thailand 泰國 Vietnam 越南 Four Noble Truths: The most basic expression and thoughts have future consequences. of the Buddha’s teachings; the truth of Nirvana: Liberation from suffering Symbolism and suffering; the truth of the origin of suffering; and Samsara, in which all desires are the truth of the cessation of suffering and the extinguished. other traditions truth of the way that leads to the cessation of Noble Eightfold Path: A detailed description suffering. Buddha: A title for one who has realized of the Four Noble Truth. It is the basis of the cause of life’s suffering and the way to Karma: Sanskrit word meaning ‘action’. The all Buddhist practices, which consists of: overcome them. Law of Cause and Effect in which all actions right view, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right offerings are as follow: mindfulness and right concentration. Flower offering: Flowers are beautiful The Buddha Stage: The main altar displays and fragrant, yet their splendour will not the sutras, ceremonial instruments last forever, as such they illustrate the and offerings of respect to the Buddha. impermanence of all things. Offerings range from candles, fruits, Fruit offering: Fruit is nutritious, as well flowers and incense. It is here that the as pleasing to the tastes. It represents the Bathing of the Buddha takes place. The result of our spiritual cultivation and helps young Prince is surrounded by flowers, us to be mindful of the Law of Cause and representing the Garden of Lumbini, where Effect. he was born. Grain: Grain is a basic dietary staple Chanting ceremony: Sutras are used necessary to sustain the foundations of life. during chanting ceremonies, it is also a form of meditation and a method to Incense: Aromatic incense purifies the air cultivate wisdom or pay respect to the as well as the mind. Just as the fragrance Buddha. of the incense travels afar, so do the good deeds that extend to the benefit of all. The tradition of offerings: Most Buddhist The burning of incense also embodies the altars display some sort of offering. transience and dissolution of phenomena. Making offerings allows one to practice giving, express gratitude and respect Light offering: Light offering are used and reflect upon the life sustaining Law to shine the “light of peace”. Prayers of Interdependence. A Buddhist offering (mantras) made whilst offering a candle is not a sacrifice; it never involves killing represent the light extinguishing darkness and it is an act of veneration for the Triple in the same way that wisdom dispels Gem. As such, making an offering develops ignorance. wholesomeness and positive karma. Water offering: Water signifies the force of While tangible objects may be given in life and washes away impurities. abundance, the most perfect gift is an honest and sincere heart. Examples of 33 SYDNEY EXHIBITION CENTRE Bandstand

BUDDHA HAPPY CRYSTAL STORE URBAN SOUVENIR STORE CAFE BOOK STORE

STORE SEAT

BBEP STREAM KITCHEN URBAN FELIS' STREAM URBAN (OUTSOURCE) SOUTHERNATURE (OUTSOURCE) SEAT

URBAN CHILDREN STREAM PHOTOGRAPHY STREAM BOARD URBAN LYCAMOBILE TOILETS (OUTSOURCE) EXISTINGSTEPS STREAM CHILDREN URBAN MAIN PHOTOGRAPHY SEAT PALM ENTRANCE BOARD SEAT GROVE CHILDREN CORNER EXISTING PUBLIC TOILET STREAM TIEN SEAT URBAN NAN INSTITUTE BLIA EXISTING BLIA STEPS EXISTING LAMYONG CAROUSEL EAST BLIA EXISTING STEPS BLIA SEAT 1 WEST LOVING URBAN CHAN STEPS 1 WEST CARE TEA 2 GROUP CARITYCHARITY SALES STREAM CHAN RETAINING SALES TEA FOR NAN WALL INSTITUTECOLLEGE TIEN SEAT ONE STROKE FLOW STREAM ING LOTUS CALLIGRAPHY EXISTING CHILDRENS DHARMA RAMP URBAN BLIA WORDS/GUAN BRICK PLAYGROUND YAD BODHI BODHISATTVA EXISTING 3 & YIN RETAINING 4 SATTDA SEAT STEPS STATUE WALL BLIA NORTH 1 lambini

BLIA garden SOUTH TUMBALONG LAMBINI CHILDRENS 1 GARDEN PLAYGROUND BAODAO TUmBALONG PARKPARK RESTAUR

URBAN ANT

STREAM EXISTING LA-TONDA TREE

PIZZA

CONC

. STEPS TALL GRASS CANE JUICE BUDDHA PAVILLION main stage PHOTOGRA buddha PHER COUNTER BROAD TING CAS COUNTER REGISTRAT ION URBAN COUNTER

STREAM VIP REST AREA RAMP E EXISTING STAG FIRST AID PERFORMANCE

URBAN

STREAM SYDNEY EXHIBITION CENTRE Bandstand

BUDDHA HAPPY CRYSTAL STORE URBAN SOUVENIR STORE CAFE BOOK STORE

STORE SEAT

BBEP STREAM KITCHEN URBAN FELIS' STREAM URBAN (OUTSOURCE) SOUTHERNATURE (OUTSOURCE) SEAT

URBAN CHILDREN STREAM PHOTOGRAPHY STREAM BOARD URBAN LYCAMOBILE TOILETS (OUTSOURCE) EXISTINGSTEPS STREAM CHILDREN URBAN MAIN urban stream PHOTOGRAPHY SEAT PALM ENTRANCE BOARD SEAT GROVE CHILDREN CORNER EXISTING PUBLIC TOILET STREAM TIEN SEAT URBAN NAN INSTITUTE BLIA EXISTING BLIA STEPS EXISTING LAMYONG CAROUSEL EAST BLIA EXISTING STEPS BLIA SEAT 1 WEST LOVING URBAN CHAN STEPS 1 WEST CARE TEA 2 GROUP CARITY STREAM CHAN RETAINING SALES TEA FOR NAN WALL COLLEGE TIEN SEAT ONE STROKE FLOW STREAM ING LOTUS CALLIGRAPHY EXISTING CHILDRENS DHARMA RAMP URBAN BLIA WORDS/GUAN BRICK PLAYGROUND YAD BODHI BODHISATTVA EXISTING 3 & YIN RETAINING 4 SATTDA SEAT STEPS STATUE WALL BLIA NORTH 1

BLIA 15 Nan Tien Institute SOUTH TUMBALONG LAMBINI CHILDRENS 1 GARDEN PLAYGROUND TUmBALONG PARK BAODAO PARK 16 Tea Chan RESTAUR urban stream (fOOD cOURT)

URBAN ANT 17 Tea Chan

STREAM EXISTING 1 Happy Buddha TREE LA-TONDA 26 Lamyong PIZZA 18 One Stroke Calligraphy

CONC 2 Happy Buddha

. STEPS TALL 27 BLIA Loving Care Group Coffee Stall GRASS CANE 19 Flooating Lotus JUICE 3 Crystal store BUDDHA PAVILLION 21 vip Guests Rest Area 28 BLIA West 2 -Vietnamese Food 4 Souvenir PHOTOGRA 23 Guan Yin Bodhisattva 29 BLIA West 1 -Malaysian PHER COUNTER BROAD 5 Book Store CAS 30 BLIA East 1 - Hong Kong TING REGISTRAT 24 Guan Yin Bodhisattva/Dhatma Words COUNTER 7 Buddha’s Birthday Education Project ION URBAN COUNTER 33 BLIA YAD - Drink Stall

STREAM VIP 8 Buddha’s Birthday Education REST AREA RAMP E 34 BLIA North 1 - Deep Fried EXISTING STAG FIRST AID Project/Dharma Talk PERFORMANCE TUmBALONG PARK 9 Felis’ Kitchen 35 BLIA South 1 - Taiwanese 31 Information Booth 10 Southernature 36 Baodao Restaurant 39 News Centre 11 Children’s Photography Board 37 La Tonda Pizza 40 Broadcasting 38 Tall Grass Cane Juice URBAN 12 Lycamobile STREAM 41 Registration 13 Children’s Photography Board 32 Charity SALES FOR NAN TIEN INSTITUTE 14 Children Corner 22 First Aid 35 Major sponsors

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Cooperative Media

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Bodhi Committee 薛富叡 林德崑 陳振興 李同修

Compassionate Committee SHI AND JING P/L DOLLY YURYDAH JORDAN SHIH ALEXANDER LIN 鍾雲英 黃豔容 傅雲美 鄭錦殿 林俊興合家 黃婉玲 林 勤 賴俊力

Joy & Equanimity Committee FLORENCE YUEN DR ALFRED LEUNG CATHY JIN JOHN MAH 李淑涓 李冠洋 李振遠 27

Initiator 澳大利亞電影傳媒學院 ANN VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT EVA IE KING CHAI BRIAN QUE WOY MELINDA WILLIAM M. EASTERBROOK 丁莹莹 楊 蕾 許銀好 廖令灏 項穎群 司徒豔青 劉汝泉 伍美英 陳樹貴 石李碧雲 何卓然 楊益憲 盧廷致 劉 繼 許陳思穎 楊榮雄 何 強 鄧佑安 張士超 華玉珍 陳麗芸 顧希璋 周 蓉 陳淑莪 林栢梧 朱洪生 湯仁娣 黃寶珍 陳傳龍 Do Good Deeds • Speak Good Words • Think Good Thoughts

Contact: Contact: Nan Tien Temple 南天寺 4272 0600 Nan Tien Temple 南天寺 4272 0600 IBAA Parramatta 南天講堂 9893 9390 IBAA Parramatta 南天講堂 9893 9390 IBAA Chatswood 北雪梨佛光緣 9410 0387 IBAA Chatswood 北雪梨佛光緣 9410 0387 IBAA Kogarah 南雪梨佛光緣 9553 6533 IBAA Kogarah 南雪梨佛光緣 9553 6533 bliabuddhabirthday.com.au bliabuddhabirthday.com.au bliabuddhabirthday.com.au Facebook bliabuddhabirthday.com.au Facebook www.nantien.org.au www.nantien.org.au Nan Tien Temple (IBAA) 180 Berkeley Road, Berkeley, N.S.W. 2506, Australia Organised by: Nan Tien Temple BLIA Sydney Organised by: Nan Tien InstitNuaten Tien Temple BLIA Sydney Nan Tien Institute 佛光山南天寺 國際佛光會雪梨協會 Tel: 61南 (2)天大 學4272佛 0600光山南天 寺 Fax: 61 (2) 4272國際 佛0601光會雪 梨 Email:協會 [email protected]南天大學 nantien.org.au