Albert Lin, The Merit Times staff writer
September 11, 2023

Fo Guang Shan Chu Un Temple in Cebu City, Philippines held the course in Humanistic Buddhism, attracting 15 people to participate, including personnels of universities, nurses, electrical engineers, teachers.

The course in Humanistic Buddhism introduced the founder of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, as well as Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order, and the ideology of Humanistic Buddhism. Dr. Maje Purino from the Humanistic Buddhism Center, Philippines, explained the fundamental concepts of Humanistic Buddhism, including the Three Acts of Goodness, Four Givings, and Six Perfections. Participants expressed that the compassionate and egalitarian views of Buddhism are very valuable, especially the concept of the Three Acts of Goodness, which they consider an essential element in today's society.

Participants learned the proper posture for prostrating to the Buddha. photo／The Life News Agency

Attendee Arbie shared that the course was very beneficial. In addition to understanding the concept of goodness, the instructor also shared how to apply these concepts in life. Applying the principles of the Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings in one's conduct and interactions is essential to align oneself with the world.

In addition to understanding the basic teachings of Humanistic Buddhism, the course also included practical experiences. Jose Mateo, the Vice President of the English sub-chapter of Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA), led participants in experiencing Tai Chi, while Oj Hofer guided participants in experiencing meditation.

Venerable You Hui led the participants in reciting the "Heart Sutra" and "A Prayer for Self-Confidence" written by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. photo／The Life News Agency

At the end of the course, Venerable You Hui explained the rules of the temple, the proper posture for prostrating to the Buddha, and led the participants in reciting the "Heart Sutra" and "A Prayer for Self-Confidence" written by Venerable Master Hsing Yun.

Participant Elmer, from the southern Philippines on Mindanao Island, mentioned that Buddhist temples in Mindanao are usually not open to the public, and even if they are, the services are primarily conducted in Chinese, making it challenging for him to learn about Buddhism. He was in Cebu for a business trip and, upon learning about the course, rescheduled his return flight just to attend it. He expressed deep gratitude for this opportunity and returned with some English books that would enable him to genuinely understand Buddhism. Elmer shared that, for him, this course was a great beginning, dispelling his sense of confusion. The concepts of Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings gave him a sense of gaining reliance and left him deeply moved.

Marti is a university freshman majoring in nursing. He mentioned that he has a strong affinity for meditation and that this course provided him with a comprehensive understanding of Buddhism. He expressed great joy and hopes to participate in temple activities regularly in the future.