Dr. Joanne Kuttner, Professor of World Religions at Lewis University in Illinois, led five students to visit the Chicago Buddhist Temple on May 13. They were warmly received by Venerable Miao Wei and BLIA members. Through the guided tour and exchange, the students gained a deeper understanding of Buddhist culture and the wisdom of the Dharma.
The visit began with Venerable Miao Wei introducing the life and legacy of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Subsequently, Chapter Superintendent Mai-Ping Chou guided the students through the Main Shrine, explaining the symbolic meanings of the Buddha statues and the temple’s decor. The three Buddha statues represent the Buddhas of the past, present, and future, symbolizing the guidance provided by all Buddhas across time. The lotus flower, which grows from the mud yet remains unstained, serves as a metaphor for practitioners using adversity as a catalyst for growth and enlightenment. The calligraphy by Venerable Master Hsing Yun on the shrine wall, reading “Teaching and Benefit for All,” conveys encouragement and care for practitioners.
During the interaction, a student asked why the Buddha’s eyes are cast downward. The Venerable explained that the Buddha’s eyes are half-open, looking down upon all beings as a symbol of compassion and wisdom. Regarding the use of mobile phones by monastics, the Venerable pointed out that Humanistic Buddhism emphasizes modernization and integration into daily life; utilizing technology is intended to improve the efficiency of spreading the Dharma rather than for material enjoyment. The Venerable also asked the students if they had noticed the “Swastika” symbol on the Buddha’s chest, explaining that in Eastern culture, it symbolizes auspiciousness and perfection, thereby clarifying a common Western misunderstanding.
At the conclusion of the visit, the temple presented golden novice monk bookmarks to the students and a special gift of handmade chocolates to Professor Kuttner in celebration of Mother’s Day. Student representative Nate Rector expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality, noting that the trip helped him gain a more comprehensive understanding of Buddhism and cleared up past misconceptions. Nick Childs, a senior in the Aviation Department, selected a small Buddha statue from the gift shop, stating he would use it to honor the memory of his great-grandmother, who practiced Buddhism, and to pray for her well-being.