The world of Tzu Chi June 2024 (Vol.150)

2024 • 06 18 T he sun broke through the clouds, casting a warm glow over Jing Si Hall. The air hummed with reverence as thousands of people, including Dharma Masters, the Catholic Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur, and diplomats from Taiwan, Hungary, Romania, Croatia, and Nepal, gathered for the auspicious occasion. Accompanied by the resonant chanting of Buddhist hymns and Buddha’s name, 73 Dharma Masters led the congregation in the ritual of bathing the Buddha, symbolically cleansing the hearts and minds of impurities while commemorating the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing. From a bird’s-eye view, the magnificent formation of over 3,300 participants displayed the Chinese characters “ 弘法利生 ” (spreading the Dharma and benefitting all beings) and “ 五毛钱可救人 ” (50 cents can save lives), exemplifying the volunteers’ steadfast mission to propagate the Dharma and inspire love and kindness for the benefit of all beings. In this sacred space, barriers dissolved—whether religious, cultural, or linguistic. The message transcended boundaries: compassion knows no limits. Venerable Ming Ji, Chairman of the Malaysian Buddhist Association (KL/Selangor Branch) has participated in Tzu Chi’s Buddha Bathing Ceremony for many years. He emphasised that living a Buddhist life involves purifying one’s body, speech, and mind in everyday life. He encourages a vegetarian lifestyle, stating, “Natural disasters and climate change are closely related. Adopting a vegetarian diet to save the Earth makes sense. Besides safeguarding lives, it also protects the environment and our health. Everyone should actively advocate and practise it.” Archbishop Julian Leow of Kuala Lumpur was moved by the oneness of hearts felt in the ceremony, where people from different backgrounds and religions united in sincere prayers. He was hopeful that people could put aside differences and be united as one humanity despite diversity. Hungarian Ambassador, H.E. Dr. Petra Ponevács-Pana, a Christian, was delighted to celebrate Buddha Day at Jing Si Hall. Her Excellency believes that understanding other cultures and religions is crucial for harmonious coexistence. James Buu, Deputy Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Malaysia, stressed the need for more