Monthly Book Feature: Practicing Buddhism—Taking the Master’s Heart as One’s Own

Written by Hsi Hsiu, Austin, USA

Our April “Monthly Book Club” gathering took place on the afternoon of April 24, with eight readers coming together to explore Practicing Buddhism—Taking the Master’s Heart as One’s Own, a compilation of interviews with Venerable Hsin Ting. The discussion was led by Venerable Jueji, Ms. Tsai Shumei, and Ms. Yen Hsiuwen, who guided an in-depth and heartfelt exchange.

Ms. Tsai Shumei shared insights from Chapters 6 and 12, highlighting Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s spirit of humility and his steadfast reliance on the Triple Gem. She also reflected on Venerable Hsin Ting’s compassionate vows and unwavering spiritual dedication. The book recounts Venerable Hsin Ting’s diligent, often discreet, cultivation practices, underscoring meditation as a crucial method for managing emotions and affirming his aspiration to walk the Bodhisattva path life after life.

Ms. Yen Hsiuwen led the reading of Chapters 5 through 7, introducing how Venerable Hsin Ting used the Dharma to reach out to marginalized groups, expanded the methods of spreading Buddhist teachings, and shared his vision for international Dharma propagation.

Throughout the meeting, participants enthusiastically discussed how Buddhist teachings can be applied in daily life. Venerable Jueji offered compassionate guidance, emphasizing that spiritual practice should embody the spirit of the Middle Way. He also reminded us that the localization of Buddhism should be grounded in the principles of the “Five Harmonies” and the “Six Points of Reverent Harmony.”

The session was filled with Dharma joy and rich in meaningful takeaways, leaving everyone feeling deeply nourished in both heart and mind.

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