Connecting with the Sacred Site
On April 21, 2025, Tzu Chi celebrated its 59th anniversary by connecting with the sacred site of Vulture Peak in Rajgir, India, where the Buddha delivered teachings over 2,500 years ago. The event brought together volunteers from Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, and local Indian volunteers, creating a powerful moment of unity and reflection.
As the sun began to rise, the team faced challenges such as a lack of water, electricity, and internet connectivity at the mountain. However, their determination to connect with Master Cheng Yen at the Jing Si Abode in Hualien, Taiwan, remained unwavering. This gathering was not just a celebration; it was a sincere and pious expression of gratitude towards the Buddha and all sentient beings.
The Journey Begins
The early morning saw volunteers departing from Rajgir at 2 AM to ensure they arrived in time for assembly at 7 AM Taiwan time (4:30 AM India time). With experience from the previous year, they had installed lights along the path, making the journey safer and more reassuring.
As they approached the teaching platform, the sound of the chant echoed, "Do not seek the Buddha far away; the Buddha is in your heart." This moment was a reminder that the essence of the Buddha's teachings is accessible to all, regardless of distance or time.
At 3:45 AM, the volunteers gathered at the platform in front of the Sariputta Cave, holding flickering firefly lights in their hands. Twelve nuns from the Sangha Mitra Institute, led by Neelam Bhikkhuni, joined Tzu Chi's Vice President, Pi-Yu Lin, to begin the walking meditation, a practice that has been a vital part of Buddhist tradition for centuries.
Walking meditation, or "jingxing," has evolved over time but remains a significant practice for both monastics and laypeople. It allows practitioners to cultivate mindfulness and clarity, helping them to overcome afflictions and stay grounded in the present moment.
A Moment of Anticipation
As the sun began to rise, the atmosphere was filled with anticipation. The volunteers sang praises to the Buddha, expressing their devotion and commitment to the path of compassion. The connection between the past and present was palpable, as they felt the teachings of the Buddha resonate within them.
The culmination of the event was a live connection with Master Cheng Yen, who spoke to the gathered crowd, emphasizing the importance of compassion and the transient nature of life. Her words inspired the volunteers to continue their mission of helping others, reinforcing their commitment to the Bodhisattva path.
Chanting in Hindi: A Breakthrough
The celebration also included the chanting of the newly translated Hindi version of the Sutra of Infinite Meanings, allowing local participants to engage with the teachings in their native language. This breakthrough not only brought the teachings closer to the community but also fostered a deeper connection to the Buddha's wisdom.
LEFT: Abhaya Yogi (center, in the white), a lecturer from Shakyamuni Buddhist Academy, was immersed in the recitation of the Sutra of Infinite Meanings. He was very happy to see and hear the scriptures being chanted in Hindi and deeply resonated with Tzu Chi's efforts in charity, medical care, education, and humanitarian work in Bodh Gaya. He felt honored to be a part of Tzu Chi. | Photo: Hsiu-Lien Chu | India | 2025/04/21. RIGHT: Monks from the Chinese Temple Nalanda, Nava Nalanda University, and Wat Thai Nalanda led everyone in bathing the Buddha. | Photo: Jung-Feng Chen | India | 2025/04/21
Heartwarming Stories from the Event
The event was filled with heartwarming moments, such as the participation of local villagers who had never experienced such a gathering before. Nearly 180 villagers from Rajgir and Nalanda, along with 70 monks and nuns, came together for the Buddha Bathing Ceremony, each participant bringing their sincere hearts to witness this momentous occasion.
LEFT: The bathing ceremony for Tzu Chi's 59th anniversary was a new and solemn experience for many first-time visitors to India. RIGHT: Each participant in the bathing ceremony, regardless of their origin, came together with a sincere heart to witness this momentous occasion. | Photos: Hsin-Yi Cheng | India | 2025/04/21
One participant, Tanzin Dolker, a nun from the Sangha Mitra Institute, expressed her joy at seeing the live broadcast of Master Cheng Yen. "Although I couldn't fully understand her words, just being able to see her made me very happy," she shared. This sentiment echoed throughout the gathering, as many felt a deep connection to the teachings and the spirit of compassion that Tzu Chi embodies.
A Lasting Legacy
This anniversary celebration was not just a reflection of Tzu Chi's journey but also a reaffirmation of the commitment to serve humanity. The teachings of the Buddha continue to inspire and guide individuals towards a path of compassion, reminding everyone that the essence of the Buddha's wisdom is alive and well in the hearts of those who strive to make a difference.
As the event concluded, the volunteers expressed their gratitude to Master Cheng Yen for her guidance and support. They pledged to continue their efforts in improving the lives of those in need, embodying the spirit of compassion that Tzu Chi stands for.
The journey to Vulture Peak was not only a physical ascent but also a spiritual pilgrimage, echoing the historical significance of the site where the Buddha once taught. The volunteers, with their hearts united, honored the legacy of the Buddha and expressed their commitment to continue spreading compassion and wisdom in their communities.
Compiled from articles written by Pai-Chiu Tsai, Ching-Chun Lin, and Hsiu-Lien Chu
