March 27, 2009: During his interview with the 2nd WBF delegates from the mainland, Hong Kong and Taiwan, Jia Qinglin, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, receives a hada (a silk scarf for showing respect and best wishes) presented by the 11th Panchen Lama. by Ma Zhancheng/Xinhua

March 28, 2009: During a visit to the Lingshan Buddhism Resort in Wuxi, the 11th Panchen Lama describes the birth of Sakyamuni Buddha to lamas among his escort after observing a large movable sculpture in the form of nine dragons pouring water from their mouths to bathe the newly-born Sakyamuni.

The 11th Panchen Lama intently listens to other delegates during the Forum. by Liao Pan

The 11th Panchen Lama joins more than 1,000 monks for a ceremonial meal held within the monastic dining hall of Fangong. by Liao Pan

Presenting hada to Sakyamuni, founder of Buddhism.

Impressive Intelligence

On March 28, the Panchen Lama addressed the opening ceremony of the 2nd WBF. To the surprise of most in attendance, standing with composure at the rostrum he steadily and fluently spoke English. His English pleasantly shocked the international Buddhist masters and cultural elites present at the forum. Previously, many were concerned that they would have some difficulty grasping the Panchen Lama’s thoughts, due to the barrier of varying languages. Upon hearing the young master’s English speech, they gave a warm round of applause, removed their translation headsets, and listened attentively. The Panchen Lama’s proficiency in the language was highly praised by many attendees. “His English is very commendable,” said Professor H. Abeygunawardena, Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya in Sri Lanka.

At the Symposium on the 50th Anniversary of the Emancipation of Tibetan Serfs held the day before, on March 27, the 11th Panchen Lama spoke in fluent Mandarin and Tibetan. The master’s expertise revealed his natural talent and assiduity in study.

Dharma Devotion

After the opening ceremony of the 2nd WBF, the Panchen Lama toured the Forum site, Lingshan Buddhist Resort in Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province.

At the phase-two feature of the Lingshan Resort, a large movable sculpture in the form of nine dragons pouring water from their mouths to bathe the newly-born Sakyamuni Buddha, the master praised the spectacle as “a product of an integration of Buddhist dharma with modern science and technology.” Before the huge sculpture complex depicting Sakyamuni overcoming multiple evils and finally attaining enlightenment, he presented hada (a silk scarf for showing respect and best wishes). In the Precious Hall of the Great Hero at Xiangfu Zen Temple, reconstructed on the site of its Tang-Dynasty predecessor, the master practiced devout worship on bended knees. When the temple abbot Master Wu Xiang presented a gold image of the Lingshan Grand Buddha, he received it with both hands, saying “Whatever gold, silver or earth, it matters only that Buddha is in the mind!” These words were highly appreciated by all monks present.

Seeing the 11th Panchen Lama’s devotion to Buddhism, Jalsan, a standing council member of the Buddhist Association of China and president of the Buddhist Association of Inner Mongolia, revealed that the Panchen Lama learns Buddhist dharma and other knowledge in a studious way. “I am a follower of Tibetan Buddhism, and we disciples of Tibetan Buddhism have great hope for him,” he said.

Pure Patriotism

Addressing the opening ceremony, the living Buddha said, “The Forum is hosted in my motherland, and this fully demonstrates that China today enjoys social harmony, stability and religious freedom, and also shows China is a nation that safeguards and promotes world peace.” According to him, the theme of the Forum, “A Harmonious World, a Synergy of Conditions,” are in full accordance with Buddhist doctrines and the modern philosophy for social progress.

On the night of March 29, the Panchen Lama enjoyed a grand high-tech musical, “Ode to Happiness and Peace,” which portrays Sakyamuni’s consideration of life and his attainment of enlightenment. Represented on the 290-degree circular stage in Fangong, the venue of the Forum and a marvelous Buddhist building as one of the theme attractions of the Lingshan Resort, and accompanied by a breathtaking musical effect, the production was considered to be an epic masterpiece.

After the performance, the Panchen Lama offered impromptu remarks. “By past experience, we know that if we treat and help those in poverty with caring love, we ourselves will be rewarded with good,” he said. “But if we oppress and hurt others for our own sake, evil results will be educed.” According to him, the obligation of Chinese Buddhist circles is to do good deeds, protect all living beings, and contribute to the country. He expressed his wish for eternal world peace.

During the 2nd WBF, the 11th Panchen Lama delivered lectures on many occasions and met extensively and communicated in depth with Buddhist followers. The mystery surrounding him is dropping away, while the image of a new-generation Tibetan Buddhist leader, who studies diligently, thinks globally, loves his motherland wholeheartedly, and devotes himself to safeguarding and promoting Buddhism, has appeared on the horizon of the international community.