Religion in China: Buddhist: communication, openness keys to civil harmony

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Buddhism is one of the world's oldest religions and over the past 2-thousand years, this belief system has been adapted to local conditions and become part of the Chinese civilization. So, what are the key values of Buddhism? And, how does this ancient religion remain connected and relevant to the modern world? CGTN's Zou Yun has the story.

Bathing the Buddha with sacred water, one of the traditions to celebrate Buddha's birthday. For Master Zong Xing, 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 says he believes wisdom and mercy are at the heart of the religion.

MASTER ZONG XING, VICE PRESIDENT BUDDHIST ASSOCIATION OF CHINA "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."

ZOU YUN BEIJING "Hundreds of thousands of people come to worship at this temple each year. They come with all kinds of wishes -- may be for wealth, or for health. But one thing they all seem to have in common, which is a longing for peace and tranquility in their hearts and souls."

MASTER ZONG XING, VICE PRESIDENT BUDDHIST ASSOCIATION OF CHINA "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."

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.

Many netizens say that smiling is the best make-up a person can wear.

Master Zong Xing says this sense of openness and compatibility is what makes Buddhism rooted in China, and is helping the religion 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.

MASTER ZONG XING, VICE PRESIDENT BUDDHIST ASSOCIATION OF CHINA "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 2000 year period and, it is now embraced in this country with 5000 years of history. Chinese culture has endowed Buddhism with new meanings, while the wisdom of the religion has also helped the civilization to grow and prosper. ZY, CGTN, reporting from Fayuan Temple, Beijing.