The Social Responsibility of Buddhism

Ven. Xinhui

Abstract:

By integrating Buddhism into society, we can work together with the community for public benefit. In actively participating in social affairs, we try our best to share the responsibilities of society. The Buddhist spirit of the loving-kindness, compassion, empathetic joy and equanimity does not only meant Dharma propagation and charitable work, they are also relevant to active involvement in social issues for the purpose of upholding social justice. It does not stop at the traditional duties of "precepts transmission, Dharma transmission, voluntary work in visiting the sick and helping the needy". In going beyond social welfare work to engage in general social affairs, we need to concern ourselves in the overall strategies of disseminating the Buddha's teachings through open discussions and reflections.