The world of Tzu Chi Sep-Oct 2022 (Vol.143)

2022 • 10 08 pecial Feature T he Dharma Hall was a scene of sobriety. “The incense is now lit, and its fragrance fills the Dharma-realm. From afar, the scent is inhaled by the Buddha Assembly. Auspicious are the clouds that gather…” These solemn lyrics of “The Incense Praise” reverberated throughout the Dharma Hall of the KL Tzu- Chi Jing Si Hall, marking the opening of the 2022 Auspicious Seventh Lunar Month Prayers and Blessing event, which was held over two days from July 30. With hearts entrenched in deep focus and movements carefully synchronized, the performers led the audience into a spiritual conversation with the Buddha. They visualized smoke rising slowly from the censer, permeating the Ten Dharma Realms with images of auspicious clouds. With utmost reverence, everyone invited the Buddhas to manifest themselves in their entirety. The dignified atmosphere, accompanied by sonorous singing, was awakening for those who were struggling to find their directions in life. Against the backdrop of the “Sutra Opening Verse” rendition, the audience learned from the screen that the Sutra of Infinite Meanings embodies the essence of the Lotus Sutra , and serves as a foundation for spiritual practice amongst Tzu Chi volunteers. The performers clasped their palms together, moved forward and lifted their hands. Their outstretched hands symbolized a thousand helping hands reaching out to those who are in need, just like a compassionate GuanyinBodhisattvawith a thousandhands and eyes. Through their gestures and expressions, carefully choreographed with vivid images of Tzu Chi’s footprints, the audience was able to connect the spirit of the Sutra, which Buddha expounded over 2,500 years ago, with Tzu Chi’s work around the world. “The sutras are a path, and this path is a road for us to walk on.” The Buddhist scriptures show us a way of life, which we must diligently put into practice, while the musical adaptation of the Lotus Sutra is a skilful means to lead everyone into the profound Dharma. Prior to the event, the performers had gathered for book study sessions and sign language practices, during which, the sutra verses and meanings were imparted and deeply ingrained in their minds. And now, the teachings resonated with the audience through their performance. When one radiates kindness from within, embracing awareness and the light of the Dharma in everyday life, one can rid ignorance and afflictions, and attain happiness in life. The event saw a resounding participation of 6,013 performers and audience members. This included participants from Temerloh, Raub and Kuantan, Pahang, as well as those from eight Tzu Chi KL & Selangor’s sub- chapters in East Malaysia, who joined via live broadcast. A prayer for the world Ani Lordo Sangmo from Thrangu Drubdeling was touched by the verses from the “Preaching” chapter of the Sutra of Infinite Meanings . “All are ever-changing, never at stasis. Though but one teaching, each understands his own. The four phases of change are fundamental to all. Supreme is the