The world of Tzu Chi December 2023 (Vol.148)

ocal News T he seventh month of the lunar calendar is commonly known as the “Ghost Month”. However, in Buddhism, it is actually an auspicious month of peace and joy. To promote the right faith and achieve true deliverance, Tzu Chi KL & Selangor organised the Joyful Auspicious Seventh Lunar Month event at the KL Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall on September 9 and 10, 2023. The event featuring prayers, an exhibition on Buddha’s life, movie screenings, a plant-based market, and more, attracted over 10,000 attendees. The prayer area was filled with the harmonious sound of bells and drums, accompanied by the glow of lotus lamps and fresh flowers. In the centre of the lobby area, the huge lucite Buddha statue on the altar rotated slowly, bringing a sense of calmness amidst the bustling crowd. On the left of the lobby was a wishing tree, while on the right was the “Jing Si Wisdom Sticks” corner, where each stick corresponded to a Jing Si aphorism by Master Cheng Yen. Buddhism at work in the world Entering the exhibition felt like a journey across time and space, a pilgrimage for the soul. It was a testament that where Buddhism flourishes, love and hope will abound. Many attendees paused to appreciate The exhibition on Buddha’s life offers visitors insights into the Buddhist spirit and showcases Buddhism in action. It is open to the public until the end of February 2024. 2023 • 12 24 An Auspicious Month of Joy and Peace KL & Selangor I 09-10.09.2023 By the Tzu Chi Documenting Team Translated by Yew Siew Yong Photo by Gan Wee Meng