The World Of Tzu Chi(Vol.113)

52 2019 • 08 Serene Reflection Between Master Cheng Yen and Ms Ching Yun Bezine on the Philosophy of Life December 25, 1993 Ms Yun: Why do people say that Buddhism is the religion of the East, and Christianity is that of the West? How do we let people know that religion transcends nationality? Master Cheng Yen: Actually, whether it is Buddhism, Catholicism or Christianity, there should be no distinctions. Religion has no national boundaries; the only differences are the habitual tendencies of different ethnic groups. For instance, Buddhism did not originate in China. The Buddha was born in ancient India; Buddhism was introduced to China later. The Chinese admired the transcendent and compassionate love of the Buddha very much and thought it was very philosophical and wise, so they made every effort to translate Indian Buddhist sutras and teachings into Chinese, and thus the Buddha’s teachings became China’s faith. Although Buddhism did not originate in China, we were able to spread it all across China. If the Chinese can accept a religion from India, then Westerners will be able to accept it too once they understand that Buddhism is not about superstitions, but rather unconditional Great Love and wisdom. For example, there are many priests, pastors and nuns among my friends. We get along very well and respect one another. Therefore, I believe religion should transcend everything, including nationalities. Ms Yun: How do you interpret the Chinese saying, “Take care of your elders and extend that care to others’ elders; take care of your young and extend that care to others’ young?” Master Cheng Yen: This saying is a Chinese belief about benevolence and love; it is also a fundamental spirit of Buddhism. The universal compassion described in the Buddha’s teachings refers to the equality of our innate nature. We should respect others, regardless of their age. When we respect others as if they are ourselves, this is a kind of equality. Tzu Chi also has a saying, “Treat all elders in the world as our own parents, those of similar age as our siblings, and those younger as our children.” We should maintain this attitude towards others always. The teachings of a religion must be applied in daily life; only then is the religion truly a religion. Otherwise, the beliefs are just ornamental. Therefore, we must deliver religious teachings in a colloquial, practical, down-to-earth way to appeal to the younger generation. Actually, the Buddha’s teachings are not complicated.After translation, it was integrated with profound Chinese scholarly thinking, especially Question & Answer Ms Ching Yun Bezine was commissioned by the Government Information Office to come to Taiwan to write a biography on Master ChengYen in English, titled “Master of Love and Mercy: Master ChengYen”.