As an active member of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist order, Venerable Dr. Juewei (覺瑋) is a lecturer of Applied Buddhist Studies and the director of the Humanistic Buddhism Centre at Nan Tien Institute (NTI) in Australia—the only institute of higher education in Australasia that bases its educational philosophy on Buddhist values and wisdom. In addition to Buddhist Studies, Ven. Dr. Juewei obtained postgraduate degrees ranging from Computer Science, Business Administration, to Future Studies. With her diverse academic and professional background, she has been effectively employing technology and social media to spread the Dharma. In this interview, Ven. Dr. Juewei shares her inspiring thoughts and adventures with loving-kindness.
Buddhistdoor Global: Ven. Dr. Juewei, in your view, what is Humanistic Buddhism and how can people benefit from its teachings in everyday life?
Ven. Dr. Juewei: First, please allow me to thank you, Stacy, for this opportunity to share my thoughts about something very close to my heart. For the past 20 years, I have been studying and practicing Buddhism, only to realize that this practice is one that not only has a tremendous impact on me, but also on those around me.
Twenty years ago, I was attracted to Buddhist teachings that were modern and relevant: it went beyond the shrine, daily prayer, regular meditation, and classroom study. Of course, I acquired the habit of morning and evening chanting, daily private prayers, and mindful check-ins, as well as active Buddhist research. But what made my life most meaningful was meeting beautiful people and seeing how Buddhism made a difference in their lives. To me, Humanistic Buddhism is “bringing the human back to our being” and “people becoming Buddhas through other people.” It is using the Buddha’s precious teachings to enrich our lives so that we can perfect humanity. It is making life worth living!
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