Lingjiu Mountain's Chü-lu-k'ung Great Dharma Assembly: Hou Youyi Offers Lamps for Ecological Sustainability and Social Peace

The 33rd Chü-lu-k'ung Great Dharma Assembly of Lingjiu Mountain was held from July 22 to 29 at the Taoyuan City General Gymnasium. Amid recent extreme climate events and global geopolitical instability, New Taipei City Mayor Hou Youyi, accompanied by founding abbot Master Hsin Tao, offered lamps and incense to the sacred deities within the inner altar on July 27, praying for social harmony, prosperity across all industries, and global peace and disaster-free existence for all sentient beings.

Lingjiu Mountain's Chü-lu-k'ung Great Dharma Assembly has served as a vital force for social stability for over 30 years. In response to current global tensions and climate change challenges, Master Hsin Tao has introduced the sustainable vision of 'The Earth as an Altar.' The New Taipei City Government expressed special appreciation for the Lingjiu Mountain Buddhist community, recognizing its annual efforts during the seventh lunar month to unite public goodwill and honor ancestors. Beyond spiritual practice, the organization has consistently transformed Buddhist compassion into action—deeply engaging in social education, supporting vulnerable populations, and vigorously promoting environmental protection and love for the Earth, thereby providing a stabilizing influence in an era of social unrest.

Founding abbot Master Hsin Tao explained that the Chü-lu-k'ung Great Dharma Assembly is one of the most solemn and grand Buddhist ceremonies for salvation. Since its inception in 1994, this year marks its 33rd gathering. Through the ritual, the deceased are guided to peace, the living find clarity and ease, and participants express gratitude to all living beings and loved ones. It also serves as a time to honor ancestors, gather collective goodwill, and sow seeds of compassion throughout the world, ensuring that virtuous actions and blessings continue unbroken.

Director Lin Yao-chang of the Civil Affairs Bureau added that Lingjiu Mountain has long been recognized as an outstanding religious organization by New Taipei City. In addition to public welfare donations and aid to the underprivileged, the group collaborates with the city government to promote positive values such as frugality and carbon reduction. The World Museum of Religions in Yonghe, operated by Lingjiu Mountain, regularly hosts interfaith exhibitions and lectures, significantly advancing multicultural understanding.