Buddhism A Historical and Practical Vision

Buddhism

A Historical

and Practical Vision

Edited by

Ven. Dr. Thich Hanh Chanh

Ven. Dr. Bhikṣuṇī TN Gioi Huong

Buddhist Studies Conference, Delhi 1st July, 2023

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First edition © 2023 Huong Sen Buddhist Temple

CONTENT

Foreword                                                                                       5

Introduction                                                                                11

Opening remarks                                                                        20

Welcome speech from the Sponsor Board                                22

Votes for thanks                                                                         26

Chapter I: THE BODHISATTVA IDEAL

APPLIES IN THE REAL WORLD                                       29

1.1  Mahāyāna Buddhism’s teachings and realistic political theory on leadership: exploring compatibility and integration – Thich Hanh Chanh                                                            31

1.2  Self-tranquillity techniques: from reality to Bodhisattva

journey - Bhikṣuṇī TN Tam Lac                                          50

1.3  Embodiment of the Boddhisattva ideal in the life’s

journey - Bhikṣuṇī Thanh Niên Tue Man                           65

1.4  The importance of generating Bodhicitta on the path of

Bodhisattva - Bhikṣuṇī TN Thuan Nguyen                        79

1.5  Embodying the Bodhisattva ideal in daily lives

- Bhikṣuṇī TN Khiem Ton                                                   90

1.6  The Bodhisattva ideal in Nāgānanda work

– Bhikṣuṇī Thanh Niên Tinh Hi                                        109

1.7  Applying skillful means in the fourth industrial revolution

(industry 4.0) - Bhikṣuṇī TN Dieu Hi                               124

1.8  The engaged spirit of the Bodhisattva in Vietnam Buddhist Sangha in the contemporary society

-  Bhikṣuṇī TN An tri                                                          136

Chapter II: GEOGRAPHICAL MAP OF MAHĀYĀNA BUDDHISM IN INDIA                                                         147

Geography maps of Mahāyanā sūtras in India

-  Bhikkhu Huyen Nhu and Bhikkhu Thien Tam             149

Chapter III: GANDHARA BUDDHISM                            165

3.1  Gandhara Buddhism - Bhikṣuṇī TN Phap Hue                167

3.2  Ancient Gandhara: a land link to the rise of North Buddhism - Bhikkhu Nguyen Dao                                                      179

3.3  The artistic expressions of Buddhism

from Gandhara and Mathura - Bhikkhu Quang Giao      196

3.4  Characteristics of the Buddha statues in Gandhara

Buddhism - Bhikṣuṇī TN Duc Tri                                     206

Chapter IV: THE REVIVAL MOVEMENTS OF BUDDHISM IN INDIA IN THE 20TH

AND 21ST CENTURIES                                                      215

4.1  Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar with social change

effects in India - Bhikkhu Thanh Tam                              217

4.2  A critical interpretation of Nibbāna from

Dr. Ambedkar’s perspective in Indian engaged

Buddhist movement - Bhikkhu Dong Dac                        232

4.3  Ambedkar and the Buddhist revival movement in India

-  Bhikṣuṇī TN Thanh Nha                                                 250

4.4  The role of Alexander Cunningham in the Buddhist

revival movement in India - Bhikṣuṇī TN Hue Ngon      263

4.5  Ideas for the revival of Indian Buddhism in the future

-  Bhikṣuṇī TN Thanh Dieu                                                277

Chapter V: BUDDHIST-RELATED TOPICS

IN THE CONTEXT                                                               295

5.1  Buddhist philosophy has come to the American

universities - Bhikṣuṇī TN Gioi Huong                            297

5.2  The practical theory of impermanence law to improve

one’s own living life - Bhikkhu Minh Phu                       332

5.3  The buddha’s meaningful teachings on gratitude to one’s parents in Sutta Pitaka - Bhikṣuṇī TN Vien Nhuan          346

5.4  The movement of Mahāyāna Buddhism and its spread

in India - Bhikṣuṇī TN Tue Anh                                        368

5.5  Mahāyāna Buddhist monuments in Andhra Pradesh

- Bhikkhu Dat Huyen                                                         386

Report on The Journey of The Pilgrimage, Charity, and

Buddhist Conferences In Korea, India, and Sri Lanka

–  Ven. Dr. Bhikṣuṇī TN Gioi Huong                                      405

The Gallery Pictures at Sharda University                             423

Bảo Anh Lạc bookshelf                                                           440

FOREWORD

and spiritual teachings.

Furthermore, the papers on Gandhara Buddhism unveil the artistic expressions and cultural significance of this ancient tradition while exploring its links to the rise of North Buddhism. The conference book also delves into the embodiment of the Bodhisattva ideal in various aspects of life, from personal growth

and transformation to the engaged spirit of the Bodhisattva in contemporary society. Papers exploring the Buddhist revival movement in India, including the contributions of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar and Alexander Cunningham, shed light on the efforts to rejuvenate Buddhism in its birthplace. As we navigate the intellectual landscapes presented within these pages, we encounter profound insights into the teachings of the Buddha, including the importance of generating bodhicitta on the path of the Bodhisattva and the Buddha’s teachings on gratitude to one’s parents. The significance of skillful means in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) and the role of ancient Mahāyāna Buddhist monuments in Andhra Pradesh are also explored deeply.

In-depth contributions to historical narratives, geographical discoveries, and revivalist movements have shaped Buddhism in India, both past and present. This serves as a testament to Buddhism’s enduring vibrant dynamism, with papers woven into its rich tapestry.

May these pages hold insights and revelations that lead us to a more compassionate, interconnected, and insightful world.

May “Buddhism: A Historical and Practical Vision,” the conference book, shine as a beacon of knowledge, illuminating the path to wisdom, and providing transformative inspiration to all who strive to deepen their comprehension of the Buddha’s teachings.

Ven. Dr. Thich Hanh Chanh

and Ven. Dr. Thich Nu Gioi Huong

INTRODUCTION

of this conference book - Buddhism: A Historical and Practical Vision and structure the book by the provided topics in Call for Papers into four groups and one remarkable group.

First group:

The Bodhisattva ideal applies in the real world.

Among the influential papers, called “Mahāyāna Buddhism’s Teachings and Realistic Political Theory on Leadership: Exploring Compatibility and Integration” by Thich Hanh Chanh digs into the possible compatibility and integration of Mahāyāna Buddhism’s teachings on leadership with the framework of Realistic Political Theory. Despite their straightforward approaches, this research sheds bright on the chance of harmonizing these two realms within the realm of the regime. By encouraging interdisciplinary dialogue and provoking benevolent reflection, in the article called “ Self

-Tranquillity Techniques: From Reality to Bodhisattva,” written by Thich Nu Tam Lac, the idea of tranquillity is explored as an assert of intellect and spirit that carries comfort, independence from anxiety and a deep sense of internal harmony and stability. The paper emphasizes that tranquillity also advantages human beings but additionally empowers practitioners to prolong this quiet assert to others, embodying the extreme essence of a Bodhisattva. The roam of a Bodhisattva also accomplishes internal serenity while actively

giving, helping, and augmenting fearlessness and harmony to those around them. Carrying on our path, we encounter the challenging paper “ Embodiment of the Bodhisattva Ideal in Life’s Journey” by Thich Nu Tue Man. This article explores the Bodhisattva Ideal and its application to the roam of life, seeking liberation in both the exhibit and the coming within contemporary Buddhism. It digs into how Bodhisattva practitioners embody the Bodhicitta, after routines as an example, the Six Perfections(pāramitās), and nurturing the Four Infinite States of intellect and No Self in their pursuit of enlightenment. “The Importance of Generating Bodhicitta on the Path of Bodhisattva” by Thich Nu Thuan Nguyen highlights the profound significance of nurturing Bodhicitta, the intellect of enlightenment, on the path of the Bodhisattva in Mahāyāna Buddhism. Bodhicitta serves the deep aspiration to accomplish Buddhahood for the profit of all sentient beings, encompassing both wisdom and compassion. It defines the extreme essence of a bodhisattva and represents a guiding force behind their selfless actions. Next, we investigate the insightful paper “Embodying the Bodhisattva Ideal in Daily Lives,” authored by Thich Nu Khiem Ton. This paper inspects the relevance of the Bodhisattva Ideal in modern life within the

Mahāyāna sect of Buddhism and enquires how human beings can embody this perfect in their daily experiences, nurturing kindness and altruism. It explores the practical implementation of the Bodhisattva path and inspects its part in addressing humanitarian crises, for example, environmental problems, social inequality, and domestic violence. Furthermore, the author offers practical tips and techniques for growing human qualities like empathy, kindness, and generosity, empowering individuals to embody the Bodhisattva ideal in their daily lives and actively contributing to addressing societal challenges. Thich Nu Tinh Hy carries the Bodhisattva from the realms of average life to the dramatic juncture with the presentation of the article “The Bodhisattva Ideal in Nāgānanda’s work. “ This article explores the depiction of the Bodhisattva perfectly in the antique Indian drama “Nāgānanda” or “Joy of the Serpents. “ The play highlights crucial facets

of the Bodhisattva perfect over the activities in Jīmūtavāhana, attracting parallels to the narrative of Gautama Buddha’s former life narratives. By digging into the Bodhisattva perfectly within this dramatic work, the paper sheds bright on the compassionate and selfless nature of bodhisattvas, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to the welfare of other people. As we advance, Thich Nu Dieu Tri presents us with the challenging article “ Applying Skillful Means in the Fourth Industrial Revolution ”. This paper inspects the relevance of Buddhism and the application of skillful means in the context of the fourth industrial revolution, also called Industry 4. 0. It explores how the idea of skillful means, as undertaken by Bodhisattvas, finds resonance in modern life and addresses the opportunities, challenges, and solutions connected with unifying the Bodhisattva ideals into our ever-evolving globe. Lastly, we encounter the insightful contribution of Thich Nu An Tri in the paper titled “The Engaged Spirit of the Bodhisattva in Vietnam Buddhist Sangha in the Contemporary Society.” This paper highlights the engaged spirit of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, extending beyond the activities of monks and nuns to include the active involvement of Buddhist laymen and women in various social endeavors. This engagement encompasses a wide range of charitable activities, disaster relief efforts, and assistance provided to the less fortunate. It exemplifies the profound impact and relevance of the Bodhisattva ideals in our contemporary society.

Second group:

Geographical map of Mahāyāna Buddhism in India.

Our focus now shifts to the intriguing subject of the Mahāyāna Buddhism geographical maps in India in the realm of Mahāyāna Buddhism’s geographical exploration. It is significant even though only one paper has been submitted for this category. Titled “Geography Maps of Mahāyāna Sūtras in India”, the paper by Thich Huyen Nhu and Thich Thien Tam delves into the significance profound of Mahāyāna sūtras in the development of Buddhism

and their geographic relevance. It explores the influence of these sūtras on Buddhist practices, ideologies, and the historical and philosophical contexts in which Buddhism spread. Additionally, the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and geography maps of Mahāyāna sūtras in India is investigated to gain insight into the geographical distribution of Mahāyāna Buddhist sites and the pilgrimage routes that interconnected them.

Third group: Gandhara Buddhism

We move on to the third group of topics, which includes linguistics, history, philosophy, sculpture, and art in the Gandhara Buddhist tradition. A wide range of perspectives on this distinctive school of Buddhism is presented in this category. By Thich Nu Phap Hue, the study commences with a paper on Gandhara Buddhism, delving into the artistry, experiences, design, and writing of Gandhara Buddhism. It unveils insight into the distinctive qualities of this tradition that emerged in the first century CE. Focusing on the rich heritage of Gandhara Buddhism, this paper emphasizes its historical, artistic, and literary aspects. Thich Nguyen Dao adds to this class with his paper “Ancient Gandhara: A land link to the Rise of North Buddhism.” The significance of the Gandhara region in the growth and spread of   Mahāyāna   Buddhism, particularly in relation to North Buddhism, is the primary focus of this paper. It demonstrates how important well-known commentators like Vasumitra, Lokaksema, Kumralta, Vasubandhu, and Asanga were to the growth of Buddhism in Gandhara. Also, it features the three wonderful times of Buddhism in the locale, which added to the spread of Buddhism to adjoining regions and the foundation of Northern Buddhism or Mahāyāna Buddhism. The paper “The Artistic Expression of Buddhism from Gandhara and Mathura” by Thich Quang Giao draws our attention to the artistic manifestations of Gandhara Buddhism. The artistic manifestations of Buddhism that originated in the Indian subcontinent’s Gandhara and Mathura are the subject of this article. It looks at the distinctive artistic

styles and influences that developed in ancient India’s important Buddhist art centers. The paper discusses how Gandhara and Mathura created distinct and captivating artistic expressions by incorporating various cultural and artistic influences, such as indigenous Indian, Hellenistic, and Indian traditions. At long last, we investigate the paper by Thich Nu Duc Tri named “ Characteristics of the Buddha Statues in Gandhara Buddhism ”. The introduction, history, geography, and characteristics of the Gandhara Style are all covered in this comprehensive paper, focusing on how it influenced Buddhist sculpture and art. The carving of Buddha statues, characterized by figures with classical facial features like small mouths, slim noses, crisp intersections of brow and eyes, and wavy hair, is known to have been influenced by the Gandhara Art school. The fusion of Greek-inspired elements and Buddhist concepts in these idealized Buddha depictions results in captivating sculptures. This assortment of papers offers a multi- layered investigation of Gandhara Buddhism, enveloping its set of experiences, craftsmanship, theory, and social effect. These papers comprehensively comprehend the significance and richness of Gandhara Buddhism through linguistic analysis, historical research, philosophical insights, and artistic examinations.

Fourth group:

The revival movements of Buddhism in India in the 20^th and 21^st centuries

The fourth subject of the gathering centers around the recovery developments of Buddhism in India in the 20^th and 21^st centuries. It digs into the influential figures, essential understandings, verifiable commitments, and future desires connected with the resurgence of Buddhism in India. This category discusses the efforts made to revive Buddhism’s presence in the country and the transformative power of Buddhism as a social change agent through five papers. Thich Thanh Tam’s first paper, “Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar with Social Change Effects in India,” examines Dr. Ambedkar’s remarkable efforts and influence on the cultural

significance and socially engaged Buddhism. Dr. Ambedkar, motivated by his insight and vision, sparked a revolution in India that resulted in real-world social change. The paper emphasizes the transformative power of his work in driving significant social changes, highlighting his numerous roles and enduring significance as a beacon of hope. Phan, Anh Duoc examines Dr. Ambedkar’s interpretation of Nibbana in “A Critical Interpretation on Nibbāna from Dr. Ambedkar’s Perspective in Indian Engaged Buddhist Movement.” Drawing on Dr. Ambedkar’s book “The Buddha and His Dhamma,” the paper dissects his perspectives on edification, stressing the foundation of a “realm of equity on the planet” and the easing of experiencing with regard to cultural foul play. It draws attention to how Dr. Ambedkar’s interpretation and the teachings of Buddha differ in their emphasis on alleviating suffering and fostering happiness. The third paper, “Ambedkar and the Buddhist Revival Movement in India,” by Thich Nu Thanh Nha, explores the revival of Buddhism in India and the tremendous position played by Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar. The paper examines the historical origins of Buddhism in India and the subsequent decline of the culture. Driven by his dedication to social reform, Dr. Ambedkar played a pivotal role in resurrecting and advancing Buddhism in India to cope with social inequalities and foster a greater equitable society. The paper focuses on his life and contributions to the resurgence of Buddhism in the country.

“The Role of Alexander Cunningham in the Buddhist Revival Movement in India” by Thich Nu Hue Ngon examines Alexander Cunningham’s contribution to the late 19^th century AD Buddhist revival movement in India. Cunningham’s devotion to the recovery and protection of Buddhism in India is recognized, especially his endeavors in distinguishing and archiving critical Buddhist locales and curios. His work extended the comprehension of India’s rich Buddhist legacy and assumed a critical part in advancing the country’s review, conservation, and enthusiasm for Buddhism. At last, “ Ideas for the Revival of Indian Buddhism in the Future” by Thich Nu Dieu Hoc tends to the author’s yearning and wistfulness for the renewal of Indian Buddhism in its country. The paper

provides ideas and suggestions for revitalizing Indian Buddhism through research and survey, focusing on those who follow the bodhisattva path.

By highlighting the efforts, interpretations, historical contributions, and future aspirations of individuals and communities dedicated to reestablishing Buddhism’s presence in the country, these papers shed light on Buddhism’s revival movements in India. They encourage discussion, contemplation, and action toward Buddhism’s ongoing development and revitalization in the Indian context.

Remarkable group:

The fifth section of the conference book is devoted to Buddhist- related topics in the context of the United States, including the practical application of impermanence law, the teachings on gratitude toward one’s parents, the movement and spread of Mahāyāna Buddhism in India, the presence of Mahāyāna Buddhist monuments in Andhra Pradesh, and other related topics. In the primary paper, “Buddhist Philosophy has come to American Universities ” by Thich Nu Gioi Huong, the creator presents Buddhist-enlivened colleges that bring Buddhist Philosophy to the US. These universities, like Naropa, the University of the West, Soka, and Dharma Realm Buddhist University, offer degrees in various fields with a strong focus on Buddhist studies. The mission of these Asian monasteries, which combine spiritual and professional education, is to assist individuals in realizing their inherent Buddha nature. The worth of Buddhist-based schooling is perceived in current American culture as advancing information and enacting astuteness while stressing sympathy and understanding throughout everyday life. The practical application of the theory of impermanence in enhancing one’s lifestyle is the subject of Thich Minh Phu’s paper, “The practical theory of impermanence law to improve one’s own living life.” It examines impermanence’s spiritual and philosophical foundations and highlights its significance in various worldviews and belief systems. In order to harness the transformative power of impermanence and cultivate mindfulness,

resilience, and a deeper appreciation for the present moment, the paper offers practical strategies, techniques, or mindfulness practices that individuals can incorporate into their lives. Thich Nu Vien Nhuan’s “The Buddha’s Meaningful Teachings on Gratitude to One’s Parents in Sutta” discusses the significance of being grateful to one’s parents, as the Buddha emphasized in the Sutta Pitaka. The paper features the uncommonness of certifiable appreciation today and investigates the meaning of offering appreciation and thanks to one’s folks. The Buddha emphasized that it is a moral obligation and a healthy practice to repay the kindness and compassion shown by one’s parents, praising those who possess gratitude as individuals of integrity and civility. “The Movement of Mahāyāna Buddhism and Its Spread in India,” written by Thich Nu Tue Anh, looks at how Mahāyāna Buddhism moved and spread in India over more than two thousand years. Mahāyāna Buddhism, rooted in South India, rose to prominence thanks to influential masters like Nāgārjuna, Aśvaghoṣa, Asaṅga, and Vasubandhu. The paper investigates the verifiable advancement of Mahāyāna Buddhism, its commitments to social assistance and human freedom, and its persevering importance in Indian society and beyond. The final paper in this category, written by Thich Dat Huyen and titled “ Mahāyāna Buddhist Monuments in Andhra Pradesh,” investigates the presence and influence of Mahāyāna Buddhism in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. The study examines Buddhism in Andhra Pradesh from the Middle Mauryan Empire to the sixth century

A.D. Mahasanghika subsects made significant contributions to the development of the religion. Conspicuous Mahāyāna schools, like Dhanyakataka and Nagarjunakond, arose in the area. Famous Acharyas like Nāgārjuna, Āryadeva, Dinnaga, Asanga, and Vasubandhu significantly impacted the development of Mahāyāna Buddhist thought and philosophy. In addition, the paper emphasizes the presence of Buddhist inscriptions and monuments in Andhra Pradesh as evidence of the region’s Buddhist past.

These many different subjects in this conference shed light on how Buddhism is still relevant today in various contexts and how it affects people and societies. By reading these papers, conference