On October 7, 2024, Venerable Miao Guang, Deputy Chancellor of the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, delivered a talk at the College of Liberal Arts' Department of Religion, Temple University, at the invitation of Associate Professor Marcus Bingenheimer. The talk, titled “Compassion and Tolerance in Times of Social-Political Unrest,” explored how Buddhist values of compassion and inclusion can address modern societal challenges. The event attracted faculty and students from the Department of Religion, including Professors Marcus Bingenheimer and Douglas Duckworth, as well as students from China, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, and other countries. Representatives from Fo Guang Shan, including Venerable Miao Fan, Chancellor of the Institute, also attended, with a total of 50 participants.
Venerable Miao Guang discussed the Humanistic Buddhist viewpoint on politics as advocated by the founder of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, particularly his principle of “concern for politics without interference.” She emphasized the importance of compassion and wisdom in resolving social and political issues, rather than avoiding them. Citing examples such as the founding of the Merit Times newspaper by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, she elaborated how the media can spread positive values and influence society. Venerable Miao Guang also referred to historical figures like King Asoka, showing how Buddhist principles can inspire rulers to govern with compassion instead of violence.
Venerable Zhi Yue, also a member from the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, stressed the importance of open-mindedness and peaceful dialogue in respecting diverse perspectives and promoting harmony. During the Q&A, the graduate students engaged in discussions on social justice and the role of humanities education in addressing societal problems. Venerable Miao Guang encouraged students to continue advocating for peace, even in challenging circumstances, referencing Gandhi's example of non-violent resistance. Venerable Zhi Yue emphasized that while social contradictions cannot be completely eliminated, individuals can contribute to positive change through small actions, such as voting or raising awareness.
The talk concluded with an exchange of gifts between the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism and Temple University’s College of Liberal Arts. The Institute presented a collection of publications on Humanistic Buddhism, including the English translation of Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Buddha-Dharma: Pure and Simple and Dr. Lewis R. Lancaster’s Buddhist Encounters. Calligraphy scrolls by Venerable Master Hsing Yun were also gifted to Professors Marcus Bingenheimer and Douglas Duckworth. The talk left attendees with much to reflect on regarding compassion’s role in today’s society.
