The 1st HWPL International Buddhist Peace Academy (IBPA)

–  Harmony in Unified Views! May We Achieve Peace and Enlightenment Free from Suffering –

 

 

 

On June 22nd, the 1st session of the HWPL International Buddhist Peace Academy (hereinafter “IBPA”) was held both online and offline under the theme, “A Platform for Communication and Harmony Beyond Sectarian Boundaries.” Approximately 500 participants, including 253 Buddhist leaders, attended the event.

The IBPA aims to foster harmony by exploring and sharing the core teachings of Buddhism grounded in Buddhist scriptures. The event was established to promote the revival and growth of Buddhism through open dialogue and exchange among various Buddhist sects and orders. Its purpose is to fulfill the role of religion in ensuring global well-being and peaceful coexistence.

This IBPA session was conducted both online and offline at multiple temples across South Korea, including Seokguram in Obongsan, Yonghwasa in Damyang, Jijangam in Geumryeonsan, Simbulsa in Ulsan, Daeseongsa in Pohang, Gwaneumsa in Wonju, Yongmunsa in Gimpo, Beopmyeongsa in Incheon, Daeyaksasa in Okcheon, Seowonsa in Seoul, and Eungok Seonwon in Jeongeup. The offline venues were connected via Zoom, allowing for introductions of the temples and fostering stronger bonds among the Buddhist leaders in attendance.

 

 

At each venue, notable figures were present, including Venerable Amdo, the Great Dharma Master of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism; Venerable Doil, the Chief Monk of Seokgulam Temple in Obongsan, Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism; Venerable Sujin, the Chief Monk of Yonghwasa Temple, Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism; Venerable Unbung, the Chief Monk of Daeseongsa Temple in Pohang, Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism; Venerable Seonil, the Abbot of Beopmyeongsa Temple, Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism; Venerable Seok Dae-ung, the Abbot of Baegunsa Geumgang Zen Center, World Buddhist Pontifical Authority; Venerable Eungok, the Chief Executive of the Geungnak Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism; as well as Christian pastors, including Church Leader Go Chan-hee of Seoyeong Church of Cheonrigyo, Pastor Jeong Jong-cheon, Pastor Park Yong-sik, and Pastor Choi Chi-nam, who attended the event and lent their support.

The IBPA commenced with congratulatory messages from Venerable Nergui Sainbuyan, the Great Supreme Abbot of Sain Nomuun Monastery in Mongolia, and Venerable Seok Yeonhwa, the Sangharaja of the World Buddhist Sangha Council. This was followed by presentations on the theme of “Reincarnation and Nirvana” by four panelists: Venerable Hyechong, the Chief Monk of Gamnosa Temple, Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism; Venerable Myeongan, the Chief Monk of Daeyaksasa Temple, Yorae Order of Korean Buddhism; Venerable Bosin, Professor at Dongguk University and the Chief Monk of Cheonmyeongsa Temple, Taego Order of Korean Buddhism; and Venerable Visuddhivides of Theravada Buddhism in Thailand.

 

 

Venerable Seonil, Abbot of Beopmyeongsa Temple, Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, who attended the event, remarked, “It is not an exaggeration to say that most wars and acts of violence have been caused by religion, which has led to religion losing its fundamental role. I hope this event will mark a renewal of religion, particularly Buddhism, into one that is open-minded and fits the new era.”

Venerable Seok Dae-ung, Abbot of Baegunsa Geumgang Zen Center, World Buddhist Pontifical Authority, expressed, “Peace is a common pursuit of all religions. It is a simple yet profound issue, much like today’s theme of reincarnation and nirvana. I will continue to support such peace initiatives in the future.” Additionally, Venerable Beopgwang of the Daeseon Buddhism Jogye Order stated, “This event is the result of the staff’s dedication, commitment, and sacrifice, and I am deeply grateful to HWPL for organizing it to promote Buddhist unity.”

Although not a Buddhist, Pastor Jeong Jong-cheon, who attended the event, shared, “This event provided me with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Buddhism, reinforcing the belief that all people are equal in their quest for truth. I will continue to support and participate in HWPL’s peace activities.”

Church Leader Go Chan-hee of Seoyeong Church of Cheonrigyo commented, “Today was a valuable opportunity to learn more about the Buddhist themes of reincarnation and nirvana. The event’s content and structure were excellent, and I felt that HWPL is making significant efforts to unite religions. It was also meaningful to watch videos introducing temples from across the country.”

This event served as a catalyst for fostering exchange and harmony within the Buddhist community, in line with the purpose of the IBPA. HWPL hopes that future Peace Academies will continue to serve as platforms for exploring the role of religion and religious leaders in society.