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Mencius believed that human nature was benevolent, while Xunzi thought it was selfish. The Treatise on the Awakening of Faith in Mahayana, on the other hand, suggests that human nature is both. It is the combination of what we are born with and what we learn in life. Our innate nature needs to be developed, and our acquired nature depends on learning. Human nature has the potential to attain Buddhahood; therefore, strengthening our realization of the Way is like galvanizing our nature. The human eye can see, the ears can hear, the tongue can taste, the nose can breathe, and the body can feel. These are all innate capabilities born out of our nature. Zhuangzi said, “A horse’s hooves can step on snow and frost, and its hair can insulate it against the cold and wind. It feeds on grass when hungry, and drinks water when thirsty. It leaps and jumps on its hind legs when excited. Such is the nature of a horse.” All phenomena in the world have their nature: the sun, fire, water and wind each have their own powers. They all have the capacity to generate energy. The nature of music is harmony; for wind, it is movement; and for flowers, it is fragrance. Eagles glide and swoop, roosters crow at dawn, lizards lose their tails to save themselves, dogs watch their owners’ homes, bees gather nectar, octopuses emit ink, and sunflowers bloom toward the sun. They all have their own nature. The nature of an asura is belligerent, while that of a bodhisattva is compassionate. The stars, thunder,

lightning, wind, clouds, and rain each have their own individual nature. As for people, children tend to cry a lot, and some women are fond of looking good. When we develop and bring into full play the human capacities of compassion, prajna-wisdom, and Buddha Nature, we are tapping into our natural potential. This potential can be developed, is equal for all, and innate in each of us. Whether we become wise or ignorant, noble or poor, deviant or ethical all depends on how we apply ourselves. There are people who possess intelligence, talent, and agility as part of their noble nature. Other people are so slow and lazy that they dull and obscure their nature. Some men tend to be open, generous, and courageous. Having a heroic nature, they are willing to take risks. Some women have an eye for details and are gentle, delicate, and appreciative of beautiful things. No matter what the case might be, our nature needs to be excavated, just like gold and silver ore deep in the hills or the earth. If we do not do so, how will we obtain the precious treasure of our self-nature? How will we realize the potential of our nature? In the past, those with wisdom studied the writings of sages and valued the importance of benevolence, righteousness, humility, morals, justice, and peace. Nowadays, we need to build and encourage the nature of taking responsibility, and of being gregarious, just, and supportive of the truth. The Buddha was enlightened to the truth after years of ascetic practice, and he proclaimed, “All sentient beings have Buddha Nature. It is only because of their delusions and attachments that they cannot be enlightened.” Therefore, if we want to realize our self-nature and experience infinite life, we need to meld into the universe and live in coexistence with all things. Then our own nature and that of the Buddha will co-exist in equality.

(adapted from Tending Life’s Garden, Between Ignorance and Enlightenment VI, published by Buddha’s Light Publishing)

Self-Nature

Issue No.38 June 2014

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Buddha’s Birthday Celebrations Around the WorldAccording to Buddhist scripture, Queen Maya gave birth to a son - Prince Siddhartha - in the Lumbini Garden, on April 8th. Soon after, four heavenly kings proceeded to bathe the baby Prince with water provided by the nine dragons of the sky. Later, the day became known as ‘Buddha’s Birthday’.

On that day, temples around the world arrange a ‘Buddha Bathing Ceremony’. Tables are adorned with miniature statues of the Prince- with one hand pointing to the sky, and the other to the earth. The statues are surrounded by a small pool of water, which devotees use to bathe the little Buddha.

Actually, the bathing of the Buddha signifies cleansing of the Buddha’s virtues within ourselves. So, with an attitude of compassion and respect we effectively commemorate the day.

Internationally, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan all designate a Buddha’s Birthday public holiday, thus demonstrating the importance and influence of Buddhism in these nations. In fact, the Buddha’s birthday can be said to serve as a unifying event, bringing different traditions together.

Here in Australia, celebrations were held in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. The ‘Buddha’s Light International Association’ celebrated with the ritual bathing of the Buddha, and also invited communities and organisations to celebrate through performances, vegetarian food, and cultural activities.

Brandon Ong

Photos taken by Indra Gunawan, YY Chueng and others.

Multicultural performances at Darling Harbour.

Buddha’s Birthday Celebration in Darling Harbour, Sydney.

Prince Siddhartha Costume CompetitionBuddha’s Birthday Celebration in Maylands, Perth.

Buddha’s Birthday Celebration in Federation Square, Melbourne.

Buddha’s Birthday Celebration in Southbank, Brisbane.

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This year’s Young Adult Division Buddhist Camp was packed with learning and fun, writes Julia Leo…..

A Buddhist camp was held at Nan Tien Temple over the Anzac Day long weekend of April 25th to 27th.With the theme of ‘Happiness and Peace’, the camp was attended by around twenty-five members of the YAD3 and YAD4 groups; and included talks and discussions, meditation, a movie night, a talent night and exciting games.

Opening day commenced with chanting, followed by meditation and tai chi to stretch both body and mind, and prepare us for the enlightening Dharma talks and meditation sessions which were to follow.

The first Dharma session, led by Reverend Miao Ee, looked at how to pay respect to the Triple Gem, and how to make offerings correctly. Next, Reverend Miao Zhe delivered an inspiring talk called ‘Steps of learning Buddhism’, in which she explained the four states of mind involved in learning the Dharma -

2014 Buddhist Camp of Learning & FunFaith, Questioning, Awakening and No Mind.

Stacey Weng then presented an introduction to Fo Guang Shan, which was very informative. During the day, we also experienced various methods of practising mindfulness, including sitting meditation, walking meditation, tai chi and a blind-folded meal.

On the second day, learning was more relaxed. The ‘Mind-Full-Nest’ game allowed participants to experience ways of applying awareness practise, plus the Six Paramitas - Generosity, Morality, Patience, Diligence, Contemplation, and Wisdom - to our daily lives. Later, a Q&A session, led by Reverend Zhe, helped clear up any lingering problems or doubts.

At the conclusion, everyone was grateful to all of the temple Venerables; and thankful, too, for the accommodation, meals and countless other facilities provided to ensure the smooth running of such an enjoyable event.

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July Retreats for Self-reflection Retreats are the best time for self-reflection and ‘awakenings’. According to a recent participant, attending a meditation retreat “allowed me to take time out from my busy life and switch off.”

“With no one to chat to because we are all trying to uphold noble silence,” she said,“ I find there is only myself. Then I find I’m quite a chatterbox.Through the beauty of silence, I discover what I really tell myself every day. I tried to find ways to ignore the chatter in my mind, by attempting to communicate with others.That didn’t help, because the chatter box in my head now had even more topics to talk about!”

“Over the days of noble silence, I learned from temple venerables how meditation and peace is not only found at the temple, but in every part of life. A fellow meditator commented that he realized he needed to apply meditation and mindfulness every day. “I came here for guidance on how to let go of anger, and feel hopeful that I can continue to let go,and be selfless,” he said.”

“Learning to let go and be selfless reminds me of a quote I came across online…

The Buddha was asked, “What have you gained from meditation?” He replied,“Nothing!”

“However,” he said, “let me tell you what I have lost - anger, anxiety, depression, insecurity, the fear of old age and the fear of death.”

“I realised how important it is to learn to ‘let go’ and try not to have any attachments. I know this will be a lifelong learning experience, and agree with my fellow meditator that to ‘let go’means freedom from greed, anger, and ignorance.”

Nan Tien Temple holds meditation retreats almost every month. Coming up in July- the ‘Eight Precepts Retreat’, an experience of monastery life for one day and night; a ‘One-Day Meditation Retreat’, and a ‘One-Day Sutra Calligraphy Retreat’. For more information, contact the temple on (02) 4272 0602, or visit our website.

One-Day Calligraphy Retreat“Copying sutras helps us immerse in Buddhism, and be focused at all times. It concentrates the mind, trains patience and develops wisdom. It is really worthy for us to experience the benefits of copying sutras”- Most Venerable Hsin Pei.

In today’s stressful environment, we are often swamped by difficulties and challenges. In such an environment, many of us find it hard to focus our thoughts, leading to even greater distress.

By copying sutras we can practice calligraphy and, through the sutra, interact with Buddhism. This serves as an excellent way to calm the mind, requiring intense concentration when done correctly.

With a calm mind, we are then able to efficiently handle our problems.

Nan Tien Temple is conducting a ‘One-Day Calligraphy Retreat’, where you can unwind from the stresses of everyday life. This retreat will enable you to experience Sutra Transcription, Meditation, Tai Chi, Chanting and Dharma Talks - activities which can enhance our state of mind, and bring us further along the path to enlightenment.

It will be held in conjunction with the ‘Month of Filial Piety’, and meritorious virtues will be dedicated toward the blessings and wisdom of the laity, and peace within the world.

The ‘One-Day Calligraphy Retreat’ will be held on Sunday, July 27th. For more information, contact temple information center, or visit our website.

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BBEP Roadshow Rolls into Melbourne, and Sydney!The city of Melbourne is widely recognised as the arts and culture capital of Australia. In fact, the locals almost consider arts and culture a birth right! So it was pleasing to see that the ‘Buddha’s Birthday Education Project’ did not disappoint when it rolled into town, on the weekend of April 26th and 27th. Large crowds braved the cold weather to visit Federation Square, and discover what BBEP was all about.

On May 10th and 11th, it was Sydney’s turn; with the year’s final roadshow at Darling Harbour. Volunteers werewell prepared for the steady stream of tourists, sharing their knowledge of the Buddha’s birth inside the big marquee.

BBEP has travelled to Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and the last leg of the tour, Sydney’s Darling Harbour. Sydney marked the end of BBEP’s one month journey around Australia. In total, BBEP was on exhibition for 12 days. Its 148 volunteers around Australia welcomed a total of

2,963 visitors and 77 children for the children’s party. This worked out to be 12.3 volunteers per day, 20.02 visitors served by each volunteer, and 15.4 children per day at the party.

BBEP will continue its goals of developing quality, accessible resources for teaching and learning communities, as well as strengthen its websites and mobile applications for the interested public to integrate Dharma.

Enjoy the photos, as they take you on the BBEP journey to Melbourne’s Federation Square, and Sydney’s Darling Harbour.

BBEP will return next year.You can join us,check us out on Facebook or visit www.paradeofthebuddhas.org

Stacey Weng

BBEP Melbourne TeamBBEP Nan Tien Temple Team

BBEP Darling Harbour Team

BBEP Perth Team

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Date Time Activities Venue

20/05~20/07 Tues~Sun 9am~5pm Liu Hun Huan Beauty of Australia Oil Painting Exhibition Hai Hui Hall

From 18/05 Every Sunday 10:30~11:30am Self Development & Cultivation* Nan Tien Temple

04/06~09/07

Wed

6:30~7:30pm Basic Buddhism* Nan Tien Temple

04/06~09/07 7:30~9:00pm Meditation (Beginners)* Nan Tien Temple

04/06~09/07 7:30~9:00pm Meditation (Intermediate)* Nan Tien Temple

06/06~11/07 Fri 5:30~6pm Tai Chi Introduction* Nan Tien Temple

26/07 Sat 9~4pm One Day Meditation Retreat* Nan Tien Temple

5~8/07 Sat~Tues all day Australia & New ZealandBuddhist Youth Conference* (ANZBYC) Melbourne

12/07 Sat11am Guanyin Bodhisattva Enlightenment Day

Light Offering Dharma Service Front Shrine

2pm Baby Blessing Ceremony* Main Shrine

12~13/07 Sat~Sun Eight Precepts Retreat* Nan Tien Temple

18~20/07 Fri~Sun Weekend Meditation Retreat* Nan Tien Temple26/07 Sat 9~4pm One Day Meditation Retreat* Nan Tien Temple27/07 Sun 9~4pm One-Day Calligraphy Retreat* Nan Tien Temple

10/08 Sun10am Ullambana Festival Main Shrine

1pm Amitabha Triple Contemplation Service Main Shrine

Nan Tien Temple July ~ August 2014 Upcoming Events

*Requires registration, contact 4272-0600 or register online at www.nantien.org.au

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180 Berkeley Road, Berkeley (Wollongong), NSW Australia 2506 Tel +61 (2) 4272 0648 Email info@nantien.edu.au CRICOS: 03233C ABN: 80 139 338 819

www.nantien.edu.auENROL NOW

UNIQUE LEARNING | ENHANCED CAREER | ENRICHED LIFE

Postgraduate | Masters | Diploma | Certi�cate | Short Courses | Professional Development

HEALTH AND SOCIAL

WELLBEING

ENGLISH LANGUAGE

CENTRE

APPLIED BUDDHIST

STUDIES

NTI’s English Language Centre (ELC) is on track to be completed this month on the Sydney CBD premises. The NTI ELC will o�er an English Language program suitable for all. It will o�er the latest quality and state-of-the-art technical equipment and education resources, and have a strong focus on personal & professional development and a commitment to student welfare.

NTI English Language Centre

Buddha’s Birthday Thanks

Interest is growing in NTI’s upcoming International Conference - Mindfulness, Education and Transformation. The September 2014 conference already has a high number of registrations, and the current call for papers has generated positive responses – ensuring that the program will be innovative, stimulating and ground-breaking.

Nan Tien Institute extends a warm thank you to all volunteers and visitors to Buddha’s Birthday Celebrations around Australia. Celebrations were held across Australia during April and May – including Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, and at the Nan Tien Temple (Wollongong). Nan Tien Institute appreciates greatly the many activities on o�er that increased awareness of Nan Tien Institute and raised funds for the new campus development.

Campus UpdateThe construction of Nan Tien Institute’s new Tertiary Campus, Cultural Centre and Art Gallery is on schedule for an October 2014 completion. The external walls have been constructed and external roads are starting to take shape. You can view a video of the entire construction process to date on NTI’s Youtube channel:www.youtube.com/user/NTIAU

Upcoming International Conference

Key upcoming dates

Introduction to Buddhism

Development of Chinese Buddhist Schools

28 July-1 August

Mind-Body –Wellness (�rst Health and Social Wellbeing subject)

25-29 August

NTI International Conference -Mindfulness, Education and Transformation

5-7 September

18-22 August

www.nantien.edu.au/study/lecture-timetable

The road to an enlightened education

The road to an enlightened educationEDUCATING LEADERS OF TRANSFORMATIONAustralia’s �rst government-accredited tertiary institution grounded in Buddhist values and wisdom

www.nticonference2014.net

You are invited to attend the NTI ELC o�cial opening in August. Reserve your place at: www.nantien.edu.au/elc