This year, Amitabha Buddha's birthday falls on December 17 (the seventeenth day of the eleventh month in the Chinese calendar). Lingyin Temple in Hangzhou hosted a Refuge Ceremony in the Zhizhi Hall, where the Abbot, Venerable Master Guangquan, conferred the Three Refuges upon devoted followers.
Inside the Zhizhi Hall, the air was filled with fragrant incense, and the sound of the bell resonated throughout the space. Amid the aroma and chanting, Venerable Master Guangquan offered incense and paid homage to the Buddha before ascending the Lion Throne. The Refuge Ceremony followed traditional Buddhist practices, encompassing requests for refuge, teachings from the abbot, supplications, repentance, taking refuge, making vows, giving admonitions, and dedication of merits.
In his address to the assembly, Venerable Master Guangquan elaborated on the meaning of “refuge”, emphasizing the importance of turning towards and relying on the Three Jewels with trust. He explained that for those studying Buddhism, liberation from suffering and the attainment of enlightenment necessitate taking the Buddha as a teacher, the Dharma as medicine, and the Sangha as friends. He encouraged all attendees to learn from the Buddha, practice his teachings, and build close relationships with the Sangha. Venerable Master Guangquan expressed hope that, after taking refuge, everyone would cultivate compassion, inclusiveness, and gratitude to nurture their body and mind. He urged them to uphold the traditions of love for their country and the teachings, actively work to maintain the positive image of Buddhism, and contribute to societal well-being, thereby beautifying the land and benefiting all sentient beings.
