Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple
March 21, 2024

On March 14, 2024, Ven Dr Juewei, Head of Program for Applied Buddhist Studies and Humanistic Buddhism and Director of Humanistic Buddhism Centre (HBC) at Nan Tien Institute (NTI), Australia, spoke at the monthly seminar of the Australasian Association of Buddhist Studies. The seminar titled "Humanistic Buddhism: Integrating Compassion and Engagement in the Modern World" drew a group of 70 in-person and online participants.

The event drew a group of 70 in-person and online participants. photo/Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple

Ven Juewei explored the development of Humanistic Buddhism from its origins in China, emphasizing its aim to apply Buddhist principles within the context of modern society through acts of compassion and practical engagement. She delineated the doctrinal and applied characteristics of Humanistic Buddhism and highlighted the role of the global Chinese diaspora in making the movement transnational. Ven Juewei traced the evolution of the movement from China to Taiwan, Southeast Asia and beyond, as it continuously recreate itself to meet the contemporary needs of individuals and communities.

Ven Juewei explored the development of Humanistic Buddhism from its origins in China. photo/Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple

The seminar offered a deep dive into how Humanistic Buddhism melds traditional teachings with everyday life, promoting social responsibility, ethical conduct, and moral values. Ven Juewei pointed out its significance in areas such as education, social welfare, and efforts towards global peace, demonstrating its capacity to address some of today's challenges. The ”Sons of Tathagata” project of Fo Guang Shan in Brazil was used as a case study of Humanistic Buddhism in action.

Lastly, Ven Juewei shared with the audience the current applied research projects at the Humanistic Buddhism Centre (HBC), including the HB journal, Humanistic Buddhism Special Interest Group, Mettaverses and more. She hoped that her talk had provided the audience with a better appreciation of the contexts that shaped the work at HBC today.

Ven Juewe took a poto with participants. photo/Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple

Ven Juewei’s talk facilitated meaningful discussions and highlighted the enduring value of Humanistic Buddhism in promoting compassion and active engagement in the world. Ven Lobsang Drolma (Loyane Ferreira) from the Associação Buddha-Dharma in Brazil attended the seminar online despite the time zone difference and expressed appreciation for the teachings shared. Ven Drolma acknowledged the value of contributions from NTI and expressed interest in acquiring Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s and NTI’s work for their library, underscoring the potential of this body of work to inspire and educate students and practitioners alike.