On May 7, 2025, the three-day "2025 Xizu temple Buddha's Birthday and the First World Peace and Cultural Art Festival" successfully concluded at Xizu Temple, Madagascar.
During the closing ceremony, Venerable Shi Zhengchiguo, a disciple of Xizu Temple, delivered a heartfelt speech on behalf of all monastics. With sincere and moving words, he recounted the temple's arduous journey from initial construction to consecration, highlighting Abbot Shi Wule and his disciples' unwavering commitment and remarkable achievements in propagating Dharma in Madagascar.
Centered on the philosophy of "Humanistic Buddhism," the speech emphasized Buddhism's adaptability to contemporary times and its universal compassion for all beings. Through innovative integration of Zen practice and artistic expression, cultural barriers were transcended, earning international recognition. Ultimately, the establishment of Xizu Temple embodies the profound significance of "boundless compassion," carrying the vision of illuminating the world with Buddhist wisdom.
The original speech transcript is presented below for collective reading and appreciation:
"Today marks a historic milestone for Xizu Temple, as we welcome distinguished guests from across the globe—including our devoted Malagasy friends and international visitors drawn by our reputation. The temple's authentic Chinese architecture has left an indelible impression, evoking universal admiration. Through intimate interactions with our monastic community, the illuminating wisdom of Buddhism has touched all present like the spring sunrise nourishing all living beings. Notably, even Catholic devotees have come to offer prayers at Xizu Temple—a testament to compassion's transcendence beyond religious boundaries.
In 2019, Venerable Master Wule, inspired by the legacy of Jianzhen, resolved to spread Dharma overseas. Despite flourishing monasteries in China, he entrusted them to disciples and led his sangha to Madagascar. Facing scarce resources, the founding endeavor proved arduous. When disciples questioned why their aging master would undertake such hardship, he declared with unshakable resolve: "My vow is to propagate Dharma and liberate sentient beings here—I shall not return until this mission is accomplished!"
Indeed, greatest challenges forge truest cultivation. The Master's compassion embodies the supreme truth—"afflictions themselves are enlightenment." While many doubted a Buddhist temple could be built in Madagascar within five years, true practitioners fear no adversity. Remember Jianzhen's six perilous voyages to Japan, or Xuanzang's epic pilgrimage for scriptures! Through Buddhas' blessings and our sincere devotion, against all odds, Xizu Temple—Madagascar's first Buddhist monastery—was consecrated in September 2023.
The arduous journey is known only to our monastic community: the Master strategizing while toiling day and night; disciples pioneering through hardships; monks balancing musical training with construction labor; and volunteer bodhisattvas working tirelessly from afar. Today's Xizu Temple stands as a monument to global devotees' dedication and the Master's boundless compassion—none of this would exist without his perseverance.
Xizu Temple's dual practice of Zen and art has drawn occasional skepticism. Yet since Master Taixu pioneered Humanistic Buddhism—initially questioned but ultimately celebrated for its adaptability—we recall the Buddha's skillful means: Dharma propagation must resonate with contemporary contexts. Music, as a universal language, bridges cultures effectively. While upholding orthodoxy, we remember the Avatamsaka Sutra's admonition: "Good deeds without bodhicitta are demonic deeds." Venerable Wule's oceanic wisdom courageously fulfills this vision, achieving undeniable transformative impact.
These accomplishments were unimaginably hard-won. We extend deepest gratitude to all supporters, and pray to guide more seekers toward Dharma's light. May our world be free from suffering, illuminated by universal peace and compassion!"