Buddhist Master: Communication and openness are key for civil harmony
By Zou Yun
["china"]
03:27
Bathing the Buddha statue with holy water is one of the traditions to celebrate Buddha's birthday.
For Master Zong Xing, vice president of the Buddhist Association of China, this ritual is not only a way to show gratitude, but it also helps purify the inner world.
After nearly three decades of devotion to Buddhism, Master Zong Xing told CGTN that he believes wisdom and mercy are at the heart of the religion.
“Wisdom here is not only about being smart, but for people to live with no self. Mercy, if explained in a simple manner, means bringing people happiness and lessening their pain,” said Master Zong Xing.
Each year, around two to three hundreds of thousands of people come to worship at Master Zong Xing's Fayuan Temple. They come with all kinds of wishes, be it for more wealth or health. But one thing they all seem to have in common, is a longing for peace and tranquility in their hearts and souls, according to Master Zong Xing.
“People's material lives have become much more abundant now, yet they aren't happier. That's why I always emphasize that life quality isn't just about leading a material life, but a spiritual life as well. The dharma in Buddhism can help us strive a balance between the two and provide guidelines for living a happier life,” he said.
Master Zong Xing shares his thoughts on key values of Buddhism. /CGTN Photo

Master Zong Xing shares his thoughts on key values of Buddhism. /CGTN Photo

From the most up-to-date speech delivered by Chinese President Xi Jinping, to the catchiest slang from the internet, Master Zong Xing is familiar with the latest trends in contemporary China.
He said this sense of openness and compatibility is what makes Buddhism rooted in China, and is helping the country to thrive in this new era. And, he believes that this spirit is key to helping various religions coexist, as well as allowing different civilizations to flourish together.
“There will be conflict if different civilizations repel each other. On the contrary, they should communicate with each other, learn from each other, and appreciate each other. This is the way to realize peace and stability in the future.”
Buddhism is a spiritual faith and set of practices that have developed over a 2,000-year period, and has been embraced in China for 5000 years.
Chinese culture has endowed Buddhism with new meanings, while the wisdom rooted in this religion has also helped the country grow and prosper, Master Zong Xing said.