The 1st Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS) is a landmark event taking place on November 5-6, 2024, in New Delhi, India. Organized by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), this summit aims to foster dialogue, promote understanding, and address contemporary challenges faced by the Buddhist community across Asia12.
The Theme: Strengthening Asia through Buddha Dhamma
The central theme of the 1st Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS) is “Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia.” This theme underscores the importance of Buddhist teachings in uniting the diverse cultures and societies of Asia. Buddhism, with its rich history and profound teachings, has played a crucial role in shaping the spiritual and cultural landscape of the continent.
Key Objectives and Themes
The summit brings together Sangha leaders, scholars, experts, and practitioners from various Buddhist traditions. The key objectives include fostering dialogue, promoting cultural exchange, and addressing contemporary issues such as environmental concerns, ethical dilemmas, and cultural preservation. The summit will cover several important themes:
- Buddhist Art, Architecture, and Heritage: Exploring the rich artistic and architectural heritage of Buddhism and its significance in contemporary society.
- Buddha Cārikā and Dissemination of Buddha Dhamma: Discussing the historical and modern methods of spreading Buddhist teachings.
- Role of Holy Buddhist Relics and Their Relevance in Society: Understanding the importance of relics in Buddhist practice and their impact on communities.
- Significance of Buddha Dhamma in Scientific Research and Well-Being: Examining how Buddhist principles can contribute to scientific advancements and overall well-being.
- Role of Buddhist Literature and Philosophy in the 21st Century: Analyzing the relevance of Buddhist texts and philosophies in today’s world.
A Platform for Dialogue and Understanding
The ABS is not just a conference; it is a platform for meaningful dialogue and understanding among diverse Buddhist communities. By bringing together leaders and practitioners from different traditions, the summit aims to create a space where ideas can be exchanged, and mutual understanding can be fostered.
High-Profile Attendance
The summit is graced by the presence of several prominent leaders, including the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, who will attend as the Chief Guest12. This high-profile attendance highlights the significance of the event and aligns with India’s Act East and Neighborhood First policies, which emphasize inclusive and collective development in Asia.
Special Exhibitions and Cultural Displays
In addition to the discussions and presentations, the summit features a special exhibition titled “India as the Dhamma Setu (Bridge) Connecting Asia.” This exhibition showcases India’s historical and cultural ties to Buddhism, highlighting the contributions of figures like Emperor Ashoka, who played a pivotal role in spreading Buddhism across Asia.
Addressing Contemporary Challenges
One of the key goals of the ABS is to address contemporary challenges faced by the Buddhist community. These include cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and ethical issues. By discussing these topics, the summit aims to provide practical applications of Buddhist teachings to meet modern societal needs12.
Promoting Peace and Sustainability
The ABS is a manifestation of India’s commitment to promoting peace, compassion, and environmental stewardship through Buddhist teachings. The summit aims to contribute to a more compassionate and sustainable world by fostering dialogue and cultural exchange12.
Conclusion
The 1st Asian Buddhist Summit marks a significant step forward in promoting Buddhist unity and addressing contemporary challenges. By bringing together diverse voices from across Asia, the summit aims to create a more compassionate, sustainable, and peaceful world. Through dialogue, cultural exchange, and the promotion of Buddhist heritage, the ABS is set to make a lasting impact on the Buddhist community and beyond12.
This summit is not just an event; it is a new dawn for Buddhist unity and cooperation in Asia. As the teachings of the Buddha continue to inspire and guide us, the ABS stands as a testament to the enduring power of these teachings in shaping a better future for all.
