Happiness and Peace. May. 10th Sat. 11th Sun. at Darling Harbour. 10am-4:30pm. 10am-4:30pm. Organised by: 南天大學 Nan Tien Institute

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1 at Darling Harbour Happiness and Peace May 10th Sat 10am-4:30pm 11th Sun 10am-4:30pm Organised by: 佛光山南天寺 Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple 國際佛光會雪梨協會 BLIA Sydney 南天大學 Nan Tien Institute

2 The Founder of Fo Guang Shan Venerable Master Hsing Yun Master Hsing Yun was born in 1927, in Jiangdu, Jiangsu Province, China. At the age of twelve, he became ordained under the eminent Master Zhi Kai in Nanjing and had undertaken studies at various monasteries and encountered numerous grand masters. In 1967, he founded the Fo Guang Shan Monastery located in Kaoshiung, Taiwan and established Buddha s Light International Association for lay Buddhists in Under his direction and dedication to spreading the Dharma, Fo Guang Shan now consists of over 200 branch temples in five continents, 16 Buddhist colleges, Fo Guang University, Nanhua University in Taiwan, University of the West in Los Angeles and Nan tien Institute in Wollongong. In addition, nine art galleries, twenty-six libraries, more than three publishing houses, twelve bookstores, the Cloud and Water Mobile Clinic, over fifty Chinese language schools, sixteen Buddhist colleges, three Secondary Schools and five Universities have been established. A Children s Home, Fo Guang Nursing Home and Fo Guang Shan Charity Trust were also established in 1970, 1975 and 1987 respectively to nurture the young. The Beautiful Life Television network was established in 1997, and the first Buddhist daily newspaper Merit Times was launched in For more than a half century, Master Hsing Yun has devoted his efforts to transform the world through the practice of Humanistic Buddhism and to realise his vision: Let Buddha s light illuminate three thousand realms and Dharma water flow across the five continents. Self-understanding and discipline are the main paths to conducting oneself in society. Tolerating and helping others is the balm in establishing good relationships. Learning Buddhism is to learn mainly about yourself; so you must search for, and inquire into the original mind. Learning Ch an is to apply your own mind; so you must investigate and study the real self. In the pursuit of learning, have a joyful attitude. In the face of advice, keep an open mind. In taking on responsibility, have courage. In dealing with others, remain respectful. Dharma words by Venerable Master Hsing Yun

3 One-stroke Calligraphy Everyone is a Buddha! said Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Putting aside the question of who is actually a Buddha? it can at least be said that Venerable Master Hsing Yun is a bodhisattva who never tires. Turning 88 years old this year, he has faced over 40 years of diabetes that led to a serious eye condition, along with retinal detachment. With unclear visions in both eyes, he can barely see. Despite having to write calligraphy with shaking hands, he still is able to let his heart guide his hands in completing the extremely rare one-stroke calligraphy. One-stroke Calligraphy means that every piece of calligraphy written by Venerable Master is done in one stroke. No discontinuation is allowed from beginning to end, as discontinuation will make it difficult to continue to the next character because his vision does not allow him to distinguish the distance between each character. 3

4 Message from Head Abbess of Fo Guang Shan in Australia I would like to express my gratitude to all sponsors, City of Sydney, SHFA, media friends, Buddhist and interfaith friends, community friends, Buddha s Light International Association of Sydney and all the volunteers for your support because this event would not be a success without you. The Buddha s birthday is one of the oldest international birthday festival of an historical figure, also recognised by the United Nations. Buddhists around the world celebrate by bathing the prince Siddhartha. Bathing the Buddha serves as a reminder to cleanse our body, speech and mind with compassion, wisdom, and peace. To actualize the messages of the Buddha on compassion, wisdom, and peace, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan, promoted the Three Acts of Goodness: Do Good Deeds, Say Good Words, and Think Good Thoughts. Through these three Acts, we can develop harmony in our relationships, in society, and even in the world. May all be blessed with happiness and peace. Have a Happy Buddha s Birthday! Man Ko

5 Message from President of BLIA Welcome to our 2014 Buddha s Birthday & Mother s Day Celebration. This year marks our 20th anniversary of celebrating Buddha s Birthday at Darling Harbour. It is indeed a major milestone for all of us. This year, for the first time, the Buddha s Birthday Celebration extends its venue along the Urban Stream with various attractive cultural stalls and exhibitions. Our celebration and presentation focuses on Fo Guang Shan s four key values & objectives, including the Cultural Activities, Education, Charity, and Purifying Hearts & Minds. Our theme for this year s Buddha s Birthday Celebration is Happiness and Peace. Indeed, happiness and peace are mostly sought after by individual, families, organizations, the society and the world. How can we achieve happiness and peace? Buddha taught us to be compassionate, tolerance, acceptance thanks-giving. As a Buddhist, my view of happiness is simple contentment and satisfaction, serving the society, helping others to achieve their goals, giving, and appreciation. Buddha also taught us equality, respectful and forgiving. We can work our way progressively to achieve peace by respecting each other, be kind and be forgiveness to each other, to build a harmonized relationship with each other. Working together, we can achieve happiness, we can contribute to change the world for a better place. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, our reverends, our distinguished guests, our sponsors, media friends, BLIA members and all our volunteers for your support, efforts and contributions to organize this major event. Francis Wong 5

6 What is Humanistic Buddhism? Buddhism is a philosophy, a moral code and a religious faith which provides teachings and guidance to liberate mankind from suffering, integrating spirituality into people s daily lives so that it is a practical way of living, not just a practice for reclusive hermits. Humanistic Buddhism encourages one to cultivate and integrate the Buddha s teachings of tolerance, loving-kindness, compassion, joy and equanimity into our daily life for the benefit of all beings. It is to build a harmonious society through helping those in need, radiating those virtues from within ourselves to our family, society, nation and the world at large. When we give faith, hope, joy, and service, we are helping all beings as well as ourselves. When we actualize altruism, joyfulness, and universality, we are practicing the fundamental concepts of Humanistic Buddhism. With an emphasis on not needing to go some place else to find enlightenment, we can realize our true nature here and now, within this precious human birth and this world. That is the true practice of Humanistic Buddhism. The Four Principles of the Buddha s Light International Association To propagate Buddhism through culture To foster talent through education To benefit society through charity To purify body and mind through spiritual cultivation

7 Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple (ALSO KNOWN AS IBAA) Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order was founded by Venerable Master Hsing Yun in With over 200 branches worldwide, its primary aim is to promote Humanistic Buddhism. Nan Tien Temple is situated at Berkeley an outskirt suburb of Wollongong in the state of New South Wales. It is one of the branch temples of Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order. Nan Tien in Chinese, literally means Paradise of the South. It is the biggest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere. Since the grand opening in 1995, Nan Tien Temple has enthusiastically been providing religious, educational, community, charitable and cultural services to both Buddhist and non-buddhist alike. The temple s activities are very diverse. Besides Dharma services, there are also regular classes such as tai-chi, vegetarian cooking and meditation to suit people from all walks of life. On 11th September 2001, the City Council of Wollongong donated a parcel of land just opposite Nan Tien Temple on which Nan Tien Institute is built. The Institute is in an exquisite setting and combines the best features of Western and Asian cultures. It will enhance the educational environment of Wollongong and complement the cultural diversity of the city. Nan Tien Temple will continue its endeavour in bridging the gap between cultures and religions, as well as creating a pureland on earth under the following objectives: to propagate Buddhist teachings through cultural activities; to foster talents through education; to benefit society through charitable programs; and to purify human hearts and minds through Buddhist practices. 南天寺 NanTienTemple Berkeley Road Berkeley NSW 2506 南天講堂 IBAA Parramatta Cowper St, Parramatta NSW 2150 北雪梨佛光緣 IBAA Chatswood Spring St, Chatswood NSW 2067 南雪梨佛光緣 IBAA Kogarah Princes Highway, Kogarah NSW

8 BLIA Sydney What Is BLIA? BLIA (Buddha s Light International Association) is an organisation consisting of lay Buddhists who observe the practice of Humanistic Buddhism in daily life. Its primary objective is to serve all beings, to spread a joyous spirit amongst people and to nurture the virtue of compassion. It places emphasis on education, culture, cultivation and service. Over 100 BLIA chapters have been established around the world to date, in the United States of America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Russia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Japan, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, India, Brazil, Argentina, Africa and other regions. There are currently more than one million members worldwide. In 2003, two major agencies of the United Nations, the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC) and UN s Department of Public Information (UNDPI), granted special consultative status to BLIA. About BLIA Sydney The BLIA Sydney was formed in June 1991 by a group of devotees dedicated to the propagation of the Dharma, cultural exchange, education and charity work. The Association engages in activities that are beneficial to society at large. In Australia and New Zealand, the Association participates in activities such as Clean Up Australia Day, National Tree Planting Day and the Buddha s Birthday Multicultural Festival. It also participates in many local community activities frequently, e.g. visiting nursing home, blood donation, fundraising for natural disasters etc. Our Goals To promote Humanistic Buddhism To establish a purified society To cultivate purity in our hearts and minds To realise peace on earth BLIA Sydney 22 Cowper St., Parramatta NSW 2150 Australia Tel: sydney@blia.org.au

9 BLIA Sydney Donation to Charity Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple and Buddha s Light International Association (BLIA) Sydney co-organise the 2014 Buddha s Birthday and Mother s Day Celebration at Darling Harbour, being the 20th Anniversary of the auspicious event. Celebrating the birthday of the Buddha, devotees are grateful that the Buddha has taught us to extend loving kindness and compassion to all in building up a caring and harmonious society. While we are celebrating the Buddha s Birthday and expressing gratitude to all Mothers, how can we expand loving kindness and compassion to all human kind? Opportunity arises for us to participate in a very meaningful charitable act by sponsoring the donation of wheel chairs to people in need. On 11 May 2014 at the Buddha s Birthday Festival at Darling Harbour, the Nan Tien Temple and BLIA Sydney will donate wheel chairs to nursing homes, disability homes, and charitable organisations. A life of giving is rich 9

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11 Nan Tien Institute Many years of planning have finally seen the sprouting of the Nan Tien institute in Wollongong, New South Wales. Nan Tien Institute is Australia s first institute of higher learning grounded in humanistic Buddhist wisdom and values. With a vision to provide the local region a place for the exchange of western and oriental arts and culture, the Institute s aim is to broaden students knowledge and religious perspectives with arts, philosophy and humanities subjects. Through innovative and distinctive tutorial systems, which support our students academically, these subjects have the potential to enrich and enhance one s life. Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order also established the University of the West in Los Angeles, California, Nanhua University and Fo Guang University in Taiwan. We are part of a dynamic international learning community that fosters the importance of learning as a life-long quest for knowledge, skills and wisdoms. Ground consolidation works have commenced on site. The first building will be a multipurpose building incorporating teaching and academic areas, museum and art gallery, library, auditorium, shops, cafe and student facilities. The first building is projected to be completed in In the mean time Nan Tien Institute is offering courses in the Nan Tien Temple premises. For more information about our courses, please visit 11

12 Happiness and Peace How do we attain peace and happiness in life? Venerable Master Hsing Yun offers the following four suggestions: I.Happiness and peace come from detachment and contentment Detachment and contentment means: there are things we should do, things we should not do in life; there are things that we should desire, things we should not desire in our minds. When we can be content, we will not be enslaved by life and will be able to settle both body and mind to enjoy the wealth and happiness of contentment. Therefore, detachment and contentment are true wealth, and people who understand detachment and contentment will naturally have happiness and peace in life. II.Happiness and peace come from compassion and tolerance Looking at the conflicts in this world, they are usually caused by intolerance between different nations, cultures, races, and religions. Poverty gaps and social stratification are the causes of various conflicts, a problem faced by humanity as a whole. If we wish to be free from these dilemmas, compassion and tolerance are the only solution. Only compassion and tolerance can awaken people s morals and conscience for society to flourish and improve. Only compassion and tolerance can help to resolve conflicts, prevent wars; only compassion can enhance and sustain world peace. III.Happiness and peace come from letting go and picking up with perfect ease In picking up, we are picking up right mindfulness, right actions, right speech, right thought, compassion, morality, good conditions, and diligence. In letting go, we should have the flexibility to be big or to be small, to give or to take, to have or not to have, and to stay high or to lie low. We should let go of our greed for fame and gain as well as the attachment to troubles and defilements. We should even let go of the delusive thought of having to let go of something. Just as the Sixth Patriarch Huineng indicated, Inherently, there is no thing, where can it attract dust? this is true letting go. As the saying goes, With a troubled mind, even heaven and earth become small; with a mind at ease, just a bed can be big and broad. Once we let go of our attachments, we will be so carefree and at ease! IV.Happiness and peace come from altruism and selflessness In daily life, each and every thought can be a point for cultivation. If we can face the world with selflessness, altruism, detachment,

13 and no desires, then we will naturally have respect and tolerance for everything. As such, our lives will benefit so much more, and happiness and peace will come naturally. To sum up, happiness and peace are what everyone seeks and the vision all humanity strives to attain. A happy outlook in life brings peace in living. It is my hope that all friends from all directions can nurture a character of contentment and detachment, have a mind of compassion and tolerance, learn to pick up and let go with perfect ease, and achieve a character of selflessness and altruism. Let us work together, contribute to the happiness and peace of humanity, and build a Humanistic Buddhaland that is filled with happiness and peace here and now. Last but not least, may your hearts be filled with Dharma joy, and may each and every one of you live a life of happiness and peace. 13

14 幸福與安樂 星雲大師 如何獲得人生的幸福安樂? 以下提出四點意見 : 1 淡泊知足是幸福安樂所謂 人到無求品自高, 一個人雖沒有華服莊嚴, 沒有美食欲樂的享受, 但是他不貪求, 人品道德自然高貴 淡泊無求的人, 不會有嫉妒比較, 不會與人對立爭執, 處人處事不會囂張傲慢, 凡事隨遇而安 好比歷史上很多的賢德之士, 他們受到 世人的尊敬, 並不在他擁有良田萬頃 華廈千間, 而是他們以無為有, 在淡泊知足中涵養了自己的道德人格, 為後人示範了 空無 的生命哲理 2 慈悲包容是幸福安樂 綜觀世間上的紛爭, 往往是起因於不同國家 文化 族群 宗教彼此不能互相包容, 社會上的貧富懸殊 階級不平等, 才導致種種的對立, 這也是當今全人類必須共同面對的問題 要走出這樣的困境, 只有慈悲與包容 慈悲包容才能喚醒人們的道德良知, 社會繁榮進步 ; 才能化解紛爭, 免去戰爭毀滅 ; 才能永續長存, 促進世界和平

15 3 提放自如是幸福安樂人在世間上要提起, 是要提起正念 提起正行 提起正語 提起正見 提起慈悲 提起道德 提起善緣 提起精進 放下, 必須能大能小 能屈能伸 能有能無 能高能低 ; 放下對名聞利養的貪取, 放下對煩惱憂悲的執著, 甚至放下對 放下 的妄念, 直到無一法可放捨, 如六祖惠能大師說的 : 本來無一物, 何處惹塵埃? 這就是真正的放下 所謂 心中有事天地小, 心中無事一床寬, 人一旦放下心中的執著, 是何等逍遙自在! 4 無私無我是幸福安樂人生最大的缺點, 往往是從私心 執著而來 因此佛教主張以慈悲提升道德人格, 以理智淨化世俗感情 所以, 在我們的生活中, 舉心動念都可以修行 凡事都能以無私 無我 無執 無 求的態度來處世應對, 自然會去尊重別人, 包容一切, 自己人生反而會獲得更多, 幸福快樂也會隨之而來 綜合以上所說, 幸福安樂, 是每個人所渴求, 也是全人類所追求的願景, 有幸福的人生觀才有安樂的生活 希望大家都能涵養 知足淡泊 的性格, 擁有 慈悲包容 的心胸, 學習 提放自如 的灑脫自在, 圓滿 無私無執 的人格, 共同為人類的幸福與安樂奉獻心力, 創造一個現世幸福安樂的 人間佛國 最後, 祝福大家法喜充滿, 人人擁有幸福安樂的人生! 節錄自 2012 國際佛光會第十四次世界會員代表大會 演講主題 幸福與安樂 15

16 A Prayer for Buddha s Birthday By Venerable Master Hsing Yun Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, We are here to sincerely pay respect Your birth into this world. When all the flowers bloomed During the warmth of spring, Exotic flowers were contending In beauty and fascination in Lumbini garden; Everyone in Kapilavatthu was rejoicing, Gentle breezes spread the fragrance, All birds sang in unison; From that moment on, There was promise in the human world, From that moment on, There were Buddha teachings in the human world. You, with one hand pointed to the sky And the other pointed to the earth, Issued the declaration of being The uniquely honored one in the world. You took seven steps Clusters of lotus flowers appeared And used the pure and clean Buddha-truth, Like water, to wash away the stains of earthly illusion. Immediately Muddy mountain streams became crystal clear, Burned-out torches flourished, The heavens played wonderful music, The earth displayed rare, auspicious signs; All these signs were welcoming your arrival To this world. Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, Because of your birth in this mundane world Your forty-nine years of teaching the Dharma Will have influence far more than countless kalpas! The three-hundred-plus meetings to discuss the sutras Will benefit far more than countless sentient beings! Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, It was you Who broke the caste system, Who preached the doctrine of conditional causation And the equality of all beings, Who opened all beings minds To the Buddha wisdom and views,

17 Who awakened all sentient beings out of ignorance. Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, In order to receive the joyous occasion Of your birth to the mundane world with respect, In some places, full of joyful atmosphere, People decorate with lanterns and colored hangings; In some places, people parade, And the sound of gongs and drums shake the sky; Monasteries hold the ceremony of bathing The image of the Buddha, Devotees and their families Celebrate the Buddha s birthday. This is how your followers commemorate Your gracious kindness! This is how your followers remember Your blessings and protection with gratitude! Oh Great, compassionate Buddha, Please pity my hopelessness and lack of virtue With compassion, I can only chant your great, sacred name Mindfully, as though remembering, my own kind mother. Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, I am kneeling in front of you, I am passing my hands over your golden body, I am offering my sincere devotion, I pray and hope that your Buddha-virtue Brightens the world And that you always preach the Buddha-truth. Please allow me to act in response to, Your Buddha eye And clearly see and understand the suffering of all beings. Please allow me to act in response to Your Buddha mouth And delight in saying wonderful and kind words; Please allow me to act in response to Your Buddha body and often be a friend willing to help; Please allow me to act in response to Your Buddha mind and do more deeds to benefit all beings. Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, We are willing to use our entire life To expound and propagate the truth; We are willing to devote our life To liberate all sentient beings. Oh Great, Compassionate Buddha, Please accept my sincere prayers! Na Mo Sakyamuni Buddha 17

18 佛誕節祈願文星雲大師 慈悲偉大的佛陀! 我們在此地虔誠恭敬地禮拜, 因為您誕生到世間來了 在春暖花開的時候, 藍毘尼園裡奇葩爭妍, 迦毘羅衛國中萬眾歡騰, 和風吹拂芳香, 眾鳥齊聲歌唱, 從此人間有了光明, 從此人間有了佛法 您一手指天, 一手指地, 發出天上天下, 唯我獨尊的宣言 您腳踏七步, 蓮花朵朵, 用清淨法水洗頓時, 溷濁的溪水變得清澈, 燃盡的薪火熾盛起來, 天空奏著優美的音樂, 地上出現稀有的瑞相, 這些都是在歡迎聖者您光臨世間 由於您降誕在娑婆世界, 四十九年的說法, 何止影響三大阿僧祇劫! 三百餘會的談經, 何止百千萬億眾生蒙福! 慈悲偉大的佛陀! 是您, 打破世間階級的制度, 是您, 宣說緣起平等的法門, 是您, 開示眾生佛陀的知見, 是您, 喚醒廣大有情的沉迷 慈悲偉大的佛陀!

19 佛陀! 慈悲偉大的佛陀! 恭逢您降誕在娑婆世界, 滌娑婆塵土 有的地方張燈結綵, 喜氣洋洋 ; 有的地方民眾巡行, 鑼鼓喧天 ; 寺院舉行浴佛典禮, 信徒全家慶祝佛誕 這是佛子們在紀念您的恩德! 這是佛子們在感念您的福佑! 啊! 偉大的佛陀! 請悲憐我福薄德淺, 只能以思念慈母的心情, 稱念您偉大的聖號 樂說妙善之語 ; 讓我與您的佛身相應, 常做不請之友 ; 讓我與您的佛心相應, 多行利生之事 慈悲偉大的佛陀! 我們願盡形壽, 闡揚真理 ; 我們願獻身命, 廣度有情 慈悲偉大的佛陀! 請您接受我至誠的祈願, 請您接受我至誠的祈願 南無本師釋迦牟尼佛 慈悲偉大的佛陀! 我用雙膝跪在您的座下, 我用雙手撫摩您的金身, 我奉上心香一瓣, 祝禱您佛德增輝, 法輪常轉 讓我與您的佛眼相應, 洞察眾生之苦 ; 讓我與您的佛口相應, 19

20 About Buddha s Birthday It s origin The festival celebrates the birthday of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who was to become Sakyamuni Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Prince Siddhartha was born on the 8th day of the fourth lunar month or on the day of the full moon in May over 2,550 years ago in Lumbini, Kapilavatsu in Northern India near the present border of Nepal. The Legend According to the legend of Prince Siddhartha s birth, his mother Queen Maya was travelling home to see her parents and had stopped to rest in the lush Gardens of Lumbini where she went into labour. It is said that auspicious signs herald his birth, the sky was clear with brilliant sunshine, flowers bloomed and birds sang. Soon after his birth nine heavenly dragons appeared and emitted two steams, one cool and one warm, of the purest fragrant rain from their mouths that gently cascaded to bathe the newly born Prince. The baby Prince immediately took seven steps and seven lotus flowers sprang from beneath his feet. Flowers drifted down from the heavens. The young Prince purified in body and mind from the rain, pointed one hand towards the heavens and one towards the earth and he said, Heaven above and earth beneath, I am the Honoured One, the One who liberates all who suffer in the Three Realms Prince Siddhartha s journey to become Buddha After the birth of the Prince, he was examined by holy men who announced that he would become a great religious leader. His father King Suddhodana wanted him to follow in his footsteps and thus set about providing a life of luxury, sheltered the child prince from the world s miseries. When Siddhartha was a young man, he was at last allowed to venture from the

21 palace. In the town, he saw four sights: a decrepit old man, a person racked with disease, a corpse and a holy man. Thus he learnt of life s inevitable sufferings of old age, sickness and death, and the transcient nature of all worldly pleasures. Siddhartha also recognised that the holy man had found peace in spite of life s misery. Determined to find a way to be free from earthly troubles, not just for himself but for all sentient beings, Prince Siddhartha renounced his crown and left his young wife and son to embark on a journey to seek the ultimate truth. It was only after years of cultivation that he attained supreme enlightenment and was henceforth known as Sakyamuni Buddha. With endless compassion, Sakyamuni Buddha shared his teachings with his followers so that they too could discover the Middle Path to end all suffering and become a Buddha one day. Hence, a Buddha is not a god, but one who, through complete wisdom and compassion, has attained full enlightenment and is thus beyond the cycle of birth, death and rebirth. 21

22 The Value of the Three Acts of Goodness Fo Guang Shan advocates the The Three Acts of Goodness, which are say good words, do good deeds and thinking good thoughts. In Humble Table, Wise Fare there is the following verse: Say good words of compassion and kindness, for they are like the sun in winter Encouragements and praises profuse like the scent of a hundred flowers everywhere. Do good deeds, for simple acts of kindness beget wondrous merits Service and contribution shine like the full moon high above. Think good thoughts, for honesty and benevolence bring good fortune With sages and saints in the mind, it is like reaping a good harvest. Let us all come together to pursue the Three Acts of Goodness, always striving to say good words, do good deeds, and think good thoughts. ~Excerpt from: Between Ignorance and Enlightenment V Let Go, Move On by Venerable Master Hsing Yun

23 三好運動 人間最美是三好, 學會三好最自豪, 說好話, 做好事, 存好心, 三好無比好 你聽! 說好話, 慈悲愛語如冬陽, 鼓勵讚美, 就像百花處處香 ; 你看! 做好事, 舉手之勞功德妙, 服務奉獻, 就像滿月高空照 ; 你想! 存好心, 誠意善緣好運到, 心有聖賢, 就像良田收成好 我說好話, 你做好事, 他存好心, 你也好, 我也好, 他也好, 大家一起好, 平安就是我們的人間寶 人間最美是三好, 實踐三好最重要 13

24 Painted by Billy s From Prince to Buddha The Buddha was born between BCE in the kingdom of Kapilavastu, in present-day southern Nepal, which was ruled by the Śākyas. The Buddha s father, Śuddhodana, was king of the Śākyas, and his mother, Māyādevī. At the end of spring, Queen Māyā gave birth to a prince in Lumbini Garden. The prince was named Siddhartha. As was the custom, King Śuddhodana summoned the most learned wise men to foretell his son s destiny. The renowned sage Asita predicted that Siddhartha would become a great king of the world if he remained a layperson, or he would become one who liberates sentient beings if he left the home life. On the seventh day after Siddhartha s birth, Queen Māyā died. Her sister, Queen Mahāpajāpatī, lovingly raised the child as her own. The prince grew into a young man who was greatly admired for his strength, intelligence, dignity, and beauty. When Siddhartha reached marrying age, King Śuddhodana arranged for his son to take a wife. Yaśodharā, the beautiful daughter of a Śākya nobleman, was chosen. One day, Siddhartha told his father that he wished to travel outside the palace walls to see the kingdom. What Siddhartha saw shocked him. The prince and Chandaka, his personal charioteer, saw a frail-looking man who was bent over with age, a man who was extremely sick, as well as a funeral procession. Finally, Siddhartha and Chandaka encountered an ascetic who walked towards them. The prince asked

25 him who he was, and the man explained that he had renounced the world to seek liberation from the suffering of old age, sickness, and death. Siddhartha s heart filled with joy, and he thought of taking up the life of a wandering ascetic. Not long afterward, the prince decided to leave the palace to seek liberation from old age, sickness, and death. Siddhartha sought teachers to learn how to be free from old age, sickness, and death. As an ascetic he practiced fasting and meditated under extreme conditions of hardship and deprivation. After six years had passed in this way, Siddhartha was near death. He realized that complete liberation still eluded him, so he abandoned asceticism. his mind greed, anger, and ignorance as well as Mara, the king of the demons. After defeating Mara, Siddhartha entered a deep meditative state called samādhi, and attained complete awakening. He was thirty-five years old. From this moment forth, he was known as Śākyamuni Buddha. What the Buddha awakened to that night was the root of suffering, ignorance, and a path to remove suffering. After his awakening, the Buddha spent forty-five years teaching the Dharma. At the age of eighty, under a pair of sāla trees, the Buddha entered final nirvāṇa. The legacy he left his disciples was profound, for the Buddha had dedicated his earthly life to teaching others the path to awakening. After accepting an offering of milk rice and with his strength returned, Siddhartha traveled to Bodhgaya where he seated himself beneath a tree that would later be known as the bodhi tree, and began to meditate. He swore that he would not stir from his seat, even at the cost of his life, until he had liberated himself from the cycle of birth and death and attained awakening. Sitting in meditation, Siddhartha conquered the demons of 25

26 Bathing of The Buddha Ritual Buddhists all over the world continue to celebrate the Buddha s birthday by the tradition of bathing the little Buddha with fragrant water. As a symbol of inner purification, the tradition is said to assist with the purgation of sins. A universal message that: It s simple to wash away physical dirt but it is much more difficult to cleanse one s inner dirt of greed, anger and ignorance. For the bathing ceremony the altar is arranged as a flower garden, representing the Garden of Lumbini. In following with tradition, monks and nuns use a special ladle to pour fragrant water steeped with special herbs over the statue of the infant Buddha, afterwards the image is rinsed with purified water. The ritual performed with reverence and a purified mind is said to improve harmony and inner balance, leading to a flourishing, fulfilling, wholesome, blissful and enlightened life. Steps to Bathing the Buddha Whilst kneeling before the altar, carefully fill the ladle and pour water over the shoulder of the image of the young Buddha. At each pour chant the following 1st wash: May I eliminate all evil thoughts 2nd wash: May I cultivate good deeds 3rd wash: May I help save all living beings

27 Buddha s Blessings For All Mothers However much we love our mothers, it can be hard to find the words to tell her just how much she means to us. Mother s Day is a celebration honoring mothers and motherhood. During this Buddha s Birthday celebration, Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple will conduct a blessing service for all mothers. Through this special Dharma service, we express our heartfelt love, appreciation and gratitude to all mothers for everything they have done for us over the years. May all mothers and their loving families receive Buddha s blessing & protection, and enjoy a healthy and happy life. 27

28 Prince Siddhartha Costume Competition To celebrate the birth of the Buddha, we encourage all children to dress up like a little Prince and Princess, and participate in our Little Prince Talent Show. The Talent Show aims at celebrating the birth of the Buddha, blessing families and educating children on the Three Acts of Goodness. We believe everyone can become a Buddha through self-cultivation. We hope children can grow up practising positive Buddhist philosophies and values.

29 Baby Blessing Ceremony A newborn is a gift of hope and a promise to ourselves and to the world at large; a continuation of the power of life expressed in the new little face you hold before you. Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple is pleased to present the Buddha s Day Baby Blessing Ceremony,where children under the age of five will be blessed by the Venerables of Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple, so that they may live a happy and fulfilled life under the protection and guidance of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas. 29

30 2014 Buddha s Birthday Multicultural Festival Program 佛誕節慶典大會活動表 Saturday 10 May 2014 五月十日 ( 星期六 ) 10:00am Lion Dance 祥獅獻瑞 Tumbalong Park 10:30am Purification Ceremony 灑淨祈福典禮 Tumbalong Park 10:00am-4:00pm Master Hsing Yun One Stroke Calligraphy Exhibition 星雲大師一筆字書法展 Urban Stream (Marquee 18) 10:00am-4:00pm Lumbini Garden 蓝毗尼园 Tumbalong Park 10:00am-4:00pm Tea Ceremony 茶禪 Urban Stream (Marquee 17) 10:00am-4:00pm Buddha s Birthday Education Project Exhibition & Animation 佛誕教育特展 & 佛誕系列動畫 Urban Stream (Marquee 7-8) 11:20am-12:00pm Multicultural Performances 多元文化藝術表演 Tumbalong Park 12:00pm Alms Round 行腳托缽 Tumbalong Park 12:00pm-12:30pm Dharma Talk: Parading the Buddha by Dr. Chris Zalawski 佛學講座 Tumbalong Park Marquee No. 24 1:00pm-1:30pm Multicultural Performances 多元文化藝術表演 Tumbalong Park 1:00pm-2:00pm Children s Buddha s Birthday Party 兒童佛誕生日派對 Urban Stream (Marquee 8) 1:30pm-2:10pm Mother s Day Blessing Ceremony 慶祝母親節祈福法會 Tumbalong Park 2:10pm-2:50pm Baby Blessing & Draw lots Ceremony 佛光寶寶生命禮俗暨 傳藝抓周 Tumbalong Park 3:00pm-4:00pm Multicultural Performances 多元文化表演 Tumbalong Park 3:30pm-4:00pm Dharma Talk: Living Affinity By Venerable 佛學講座 4:30pm Completion of the Day 活動圓滿 Tumbalong Park Marquee No. 24

31 2014 Buddha s Birthday Multicultural Festival Program 佛誕節慶典大會活動表 Sunday 11 May 2014 五月十一日 ( 星期日 ) 09:40am 24 Seasons Drum Lion Dance 24 節令鼓 祥獅獻瑞 Tumbalong Park 10:00am 10:00am-4:00pm Buddha s Birthday Festival Official Ceremony Master Hsing Yun One Stroke Calligraphy Exhibition 佛誕節慶典大會 星雲大師一筆字書法展 Tumbalong Park Urban Stream (Marquee 18) 10:00am-4:00pm Lumbini Garden 蓝毗尼园 Tumbalong Park 10:00am-4:00pm Tea Ceremony 茶禪 Urban Stream (Marquee 17) 10:00am-4:00pm Buddha s Birthday Education Project Exhibition & Animation 佛誕教育特展 & 佛誕系列動畫 Urban Stream (Marquee 7-8) 12:00pm-1:00pm Multicultural Performances 多元文化藝術表演 Tumbalong Park 1:00pm Alms Round 行腳托缽 Tumbalong Park 1:30pm-2:30pm Children s Buddha s Birthday Party 兒童佛誕生日派對 Urban Stream (Marquee 8) 2:30pm-3:30pm 3:00pm-3:30pm Prince Siddhartha Costume Competition Dharma Talk: Happiness and Peace by Venerable 悉達多太子創意裝扮比賽 佛學講座 Tumbalong Park Tumbalong Park Marquee No. 24 3:50pm- 4:30pm Multicultural Performances 多元文化藝術表演 Tumbalong Park 4:30 pm Completion of the Festival 佛誕慶典圓滿 Multicultural Vegetarian Food Fair 多元文化素食 Malaysia 馬來西亞 Singapore 新加坡 Hong Kong 香港 Indonesia 印尼 Taiwan 台灣 Japan 日本 India 印度 China 中國 Thailand 泰國 Vietnam 越南

32 Symbolism and other traditions Buddha: A title for one who has realized the cause of life s suffering and the way to overcome them. Four Noble Truths: The most basic expression of the Buddha s teachings; the truth of suffering; the truth of the origin of suffering; the truth of the cessation of suffering and the truth of the way that leads to the cessation of suffering. Karma: Sanskrit word meaning action. The Law of Cause and Effect in which all actions and thoughts have future consequences. Nirvana: Liberation from suffering and Samsara, in which all desires are extinguished. Noble Eightfold Path: A detailed description of the Four Noble Truth. It is the basis of all Buddhist practices, which consists of: right view, right thought, right speech, right

33 action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness and right concentration. The Buddha Stage: The main altar displays the sutras, ceremonial instruments and offerings of respect to the Buddha. Offerings range from candles, fruits, flowers and incense. It is here that the Bathing of the Buddha takes place. The young Prince is surrounded by flowers, representing the Garden of Lumbini, where he was born. Chanting ceremony: Sutras are used during chanting ceremonies, it is also a form of meditation and a method to cultivate wisdom or pay respect to the Buddha. The tradition of offerings: Most Buddhist altars display some sort of offering. Making offerings allows one to practice giving, express gratitude and respect and reflect upon the life sustaining Law of Interdependence. A Buddhist offering is not a sacrifice; it never involves killing and it is an act of veneration for the Triple Gem. As such, making an offering develops wholesomeness and positive karma. While tangible objects may be given in abundance, the most perfect gift is an honest and sincere heart. Examples of offerings are as follow: Flower offering: Flowers are beautiful and fragrant, yet their splendour will not last forever, as such they illustrate the impermanence of all things. Fruit offering: Fruit is nutritious, as well as pleasing to the tastes. It represents the result of our spiritual cultivation and helps us to be mindful of the Law of Cause and Effect. Grain: Grain is a basic dietary staple necessary to sustain the foundations of life. Incense: Aromatic incense purifies the air as well as the mind. Just as the fragrance of the incense travels afar, so do the good deeds that extend to the benefit of all. The burning of incense also embodies the transience and dissolution of phenomena. Light offering: Light offering are used to shine the light of peace. Prayers (mantras) made whilst offering a candle represent the light extinguishing darkness in the same way that wisdom dispels ignorance. Water offering: Water signifies the force of life and washes away impurities. 33

34 SYDNEY EXHIBITION CENTRE URBAN STREAM URBAN STREAM LA-TONDA BRICK STEPS URBAN CAFE URBAN STREAM URBAN STREAM EXISTING STEPS URBAN STREAM TOILETS MAIN ENTRANCE EXISTING PUBLIC TOILET URBAN STR URBAN STREAM EXISTING STEPS CHARITY SALES CARITY SALES FOR NAN TIEN INSTITUTE COLLEGE BLIA YAD 3 & 4 BLIA EAST 1 BLIA WEST 1 BLIA WEST 2 BLIA LOVING CARE GROUP LAMYONG DHARMA WORDS/GUAN YIN BODHISATTVA URBAN STREAM FLOWING LOTUS BODHI SATTDA SEAT ONE STROKE CALLIGRAPHY TEA CHAN RETAINING EXISTING RAMP EXISTING STATUE WALL BLIA NORTH 1 BLIA SOUTH 1 BAODAO RESTAUR TUMBALONG PARK TUmBALONG PARK lambini garden LAMBINI GARDEN CHILDRENS PLAYGROUND ANT EXISTING TREE PIZZA TALL GRASS CANE JUICE PHOTOGRA BUDDHA PAVILLION buddha main stage CONC. STEPS PHER COUNTER BROADCAS TING COUNTER REGISTRAT ION COUNTER RAMP EXISTING PERFORMANCE STAGE VIP REST AREA FIRST AID URBAN STREAM

35 Bandstand EXISTING STEPS SEAT EAM TEA CHAN urban stream NAN TIEN INSTITUTE CHILDREN CORNER URBAN STREAM SEAT SEAT CHILDREN PHOTOGRAPHY EXISTING STEPS BOARD LYCAMOBILE (OUTSOURCE) SEAT SEAT CHILDREN PHOTOGRAPHY BOARD CAROUSEL URBAN STREAM SOUTHERNATURE (OUTSOURCE) FELIS' KITCHEN SEAT BBEP (OUTSOURCE) STORE BOOK STORE PALM GROVE SOUVENIR CRYSTAL HAPPY BUDDHA STORE STORE RETAINING WALL SEAT CHILDRENS PLAYGROUND urban stream Happy Buddha Happy Buddha Crystal store Souvenir Book Store Buddha s Birthday Education Project Buddha s Birthday Education Project/Dharma Talk Felis Kitchen Southernature Children s Photography Board Lycamobile Children s Photography Board Children Corner 15 Nan Tien Institute 16 Tea Chan 17 Tea Chan 18 One Stroke Calligraphy 19 Flooating Lotus 21 vip Guests Rest Area 23 Guan Yin Bodhisattva 24 Guan Yin Bodhisattva/Dhatma Words TUmBALONG PARK 31 Information Booth 39 News Centre 40 Broadcasting 41 Registration 32 Charity SALES FOR NAN TIEN INSTITUTE 22 First Aid TUmBALONG PARK (food court) Lamyong BLIA Loving Care Group Coffee Stall BLIA West 2 -Vietnamese Food BLIA West 1 -Malaysian BLIA East 1 - Hong Kong BLIA YAD - Drink Stall BLIA North 1 - Deep Fried BLIA South 1 - Taiwanese Baodao Restaurant La Tonda Pizza Tall Grass Cane Juice 35

36 Major sponsors 海天大酒家 CHAN S CANTON VILLAGE CHINESE RESTAURANT

37 Major sponsors Sunpac Resources TEL: 東益食品公司 Tong Yee Foods

38 Gold sponsors Brilliant Wisdom Investment Pty Ltd Vincent Hong Darling Habour Pty Ltd Jonsa Australia Pty Ltd MiMi s Dress Making & Alterations Vege Health Foods Pty Ltd 萬佳超市

39 Silver sponsors Auga travel Pre-Uni New College Liverpool Ted Yeong & Co Certified Practising Accountant Taxation Consultant Teng Technology Pty Ltd Unigreen Food Pty Ltd 長青食品集團 世界中華殯儀服務 凱旋旅遊 澳大利亞雪梨北區華人商會 茌源國際健康用品有限公司

40 Bronze sponsors Bakeryking Cake Shop Dr Michael Tse souther cross Jade Express Travel Let your english flow Marian Alteration Newnorth Holding Pty Ltd Panen trading Co Pty Ltd

41 Bronze sponsors ROWLATT & CO ACCOUNTANT & FINANCIAL ADVISER Shirley & Jack Lin Holdings Pty Ltd Southern pearl Trading William Chan &Co Lawyers And Notaries 大信行 森茂參茸藥行 永德藥行 洪氏貿易公司 生輝時裝

42 Bronze sponsors 福臨門 聚緣坊素食館 Cooperative Media Australia Film & Media College 澳大利亞電影傳媒學院

43 Individual sponsors Dharma Support Committee DUNCAN BROWN AGRICULTURE CO. WENG GHIEN HUEI LAN 廖呂寶玉 Bodhi Committee 薛富叡林德崑陳振興李同修 Compassionate Committee SHI AND JING P/L DOLLY YURYDAH JORDAN SHIH ALEXANDER LIN 鍾雲英黃豔容傅雲美鄭錦殿林俊興合家黃婉玲林勤賴俊力 Joy & Equanimity Committee FLORENCE YUEN DR ALFRED LEUNG CATHY JIN JOHN MAH 李淑涓李冠洋李振遠 27 Initiator ANN VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT EVA IE KING CHAI BRIAN QUE WOY MELINDA WILLIAM M. EASTERBROOK 丁莹莹 楊蕾 許銀好 廖令灏 項穎群 司徒豔青 劉汝泉 伍美英陳樹貴 石李碧雲 何卓然 楊益憲 盧廷致 劉繼 許陳思穎 楊榮雄何強 鄧佑安 張士超 華玉珍 陳麗芸 顧希璋 周蓉 陳淑莪林栢梧 朱洪生 湯仁娣 黃寶珍 陳傳龍

44 Do Good Deeds Speak Good Words Think Good Thoughts bliabuddhabirthday.com.au Nan Tien Temple (IBAA) 180 Berkeley Road, Berkeley, N.S.W. 2506, Australia Tel: 61 (2) Fax: 61 (2) nantien.org.au Facebook