Exploring the Wisdom of Humanistic Buddhism Amid the Fragrance of Books and Tea

Written by Hsi-Hsiu (喜秀)

On December 4, Xiangyun Temple held its "One Book a Month" reading group at Drip Stone Café. The event was opened by Venerable Jueji, with Venerable Yongjia offering a tea ceremony that added an elegant and refined atmosphere. Venerable Yisong also joined the gathering. A total of twelve participants took turns leading the reading and sharing their insights. The gentle blend of book fragrance and tea aroma created a warm and uplifting ambiance.

This month's selected reading was Boundless Gratitude to the Teacher by Venerable Juepei, centered on the core practice of "hearing, reflecting, practicing, and realizing." Participants shared that through "hearing," they absorb the Dharma teachings; through "reflection," they examine themselves; through "practice," they put the teachings into action; and through "realization," they experience growth in daily life—allowing the Buddha's teachings to truly become part of everyday living.

During the discussion of Chapter 15, "Change and Constancy in Contemporary Buddhism," participants focused on the impact of technology on Buddhism. While technology can easily distract the human mind, it also provides new platforms for spreading the Dharma. Temples continue to play a vital role in bringing communities together and purifying the human heart. The book emphasizes that amid changing times, Buddhism must return to the Buddha's original intention, taking "self-reliance and reliance on the Dharma" as its foundation while practicing the Bodhisattva spirit of altruism. Venerable Master Hsing Yun's promotion of Humanistic Buddhism and the establishment of the World Buddhist Federation exemplify the power of unity in Buddhism.

Chapter 17 points out that Buddhism should take "wisdom as its essence and skillful means as its application," moving toward rationality, daily life integration, and wider accessibility. In the face of AI and emerging technologies, Buddhism should adopt an open-minded approach and make good use of technological advances. Participants also expressed deep admiration for Venerable Master Hsing Yun's far-sighted vision in education and international outreach, which continues to sustain and expand the development of Humanistic Buddhism worldwide.

More News