Relevance Of Buddha Dharma In 21st Century: Global Thinkers Explore Dalai Lama’s Teachings At Global Meet
In a powerful tribute to the spiritual legacy of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, over 500 eminent Buddhist scholars, spiritual leaders, researchers, and practitioners from across the globe convened in the Indian capital for a landmark international conference organised by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC). Held to commemorate the revered Tibetan leader’s 90th birth anniversary, the event explored the pressing relevance of Buddha Dharma in a world grappling with rapid change, scientific advancement, and deepening global crises.
Titled “Relevance of Buddha Dharma in the 21st Century”, the conference focused on three core themes close to His Holiness's heart: the philosophical and ethical relevance of Buddhism in modern society, the intersection of Buddhism with quantum physics and neuroscience, and the future of Tibetan Buddhism amidst increasing cultural and political challenges.
A Legacy Anchore In Compassion, Ethics, And Human Unity
Opening the deliberations, Dr. Alexander Berzin, a Harvard-trained scholar in Far Eastern Languages, Sanskrit, and Indian Studies, outlined the Dalai Lama’s enduring focus on three key principles: the oneness of humanity, bodhichitta (the enlightened mind), and the view of emptiness. These, he emphasised, form the foundation of His Holiness’s daily spiritual practice and global mission.
Dr. Berzin further highlighted the Dalai Lama’s four major commitments for the modern world: promoting secular ethics and universal values within school systems, preserving Tibetan culture and environment, fostering religious harmony, and integrating ancient Indian knowledge about the mind into Indian education.
Bridging Science And Spirituality
Dr. Lobsang Tenzin Negi, Executive Director of the Center for Contemplative Science and Compassion-Based Ethics at Emory University, underlined the Dalai Lama’s pioneering efforts to unite scientific inquiry with ancient contemplative wisdom.
“His vision and calls to action have directly inspired impactful global programs like SEE Learning and CBCT, which integrate secular ethics and emotional well-being into education and society. Together, these contributions offer a timeless and practical framework, and vital tools, for cultivating empathy, resilience, and a sense of universal responsibility in the 21st century,” he stated.
Adding scientific weight to the dialogue, Prof. Ceon Ramon, Affiliate Professor at the University of Washington, drew intriguing parallels between Buddhist philosophy and modern physics. Using examples from quantum and superluminal (faster-than-light) physics, he explained how these concepts echo the Buddhist view of the luminous nature of the mind—suggesting a shared language between consciousness and the cosmos.
Rethinking Education For A Compassionate World
From Indonesia, Associate Professor Edi Ramawijaya Putra of Sriwijaya State Buddhist College emphasised the Dalai Lama’s concern over growing self-centeredness in modern education. He argued for a shift towards curricula that emphasise "educating the heart" alongside the mind.
“Learners must accentuate themselves that their presence in this world is not merely about individual purpose, but also for the benfits of other being,” he stressed, urging policymakers worldwide to reimagine education that prepares students for life's uncertainties through resilience, empathy, and collective responsibility.
A Declaration For The Future
The day-long conference concluded with a powerful declaration, unanimously supported by all participants. It hailed His Holiness the Dalai Lama as a beacon of peace, whose teachings have transcended borders and inspired millions to walk the path of compassion and non-violence.
“From the highlands of Tibet to the farthest corners of the world, His Holiness’s teachings had transcended borders and beliefs. Inspiring millions to walk the path of non-violence, harmony, and inner awakening as the revered manifestation of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, His Holiness has upheld and revitalised the precious traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, while also emerging as a global voice of conscience in contemporary times,” the Declaration read.
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