Dharma Drum Mountain

Dharma Drum Mountain (DDM), also known by its Chinese name Fǎgǔ Shān, is a prominent international Buddhist spiritual, cultural, and educational foundation. It was established by the late Chan master Sheng-yen (1931–2009), who envisioned it as a center for public Buddhist education aimed at improving the world and creating a "Pure Land on Earth."

History and Development

The origins of Dharma Drum Mountain can be traced to earlier institutions founded by Dongchu, a disciple of the modernist monk Grand Master Taixu. The Chung-Hwa Institute of Buddhist Culture (CHIBC), established in 1956, focused on promoting Buddhist culture through publications like "Humanity Magazine." Nung Chan Monastery was founded in 1975. Following Dongchu's death, his principal disciple, Sheng-yen, became the abbot of both institutions in 1978. Under his leadership, these organizations experienced significant growth, leading to the acquisition of land in Jinshan, New Taipei City, in 1989 to build a larger monastery. This new site was named Dharma Drum Mountain, marking the formal establishment of the organization.

The construction of the Jinshan complex, overseen by Sheng-yen with a focus on environmentalism, involved seven years of architectural design and further construction time. The buildings were designed to integrate with the natural landscape. The first phase of the project broke ground in 1993 and was completed and inaugurated in 2001. In 2006, Venerable Guo Dong succeeded Sheng-yen as abbot.

Mission and Educational Philosophy

Dharma Drum Mountain is dedicated to "uplifting the character of humanity and building a pure land on earth," guided by a spirit of "giving of ourselves for the benefit of all." Its educational approach is multifaceted, encompassing three key areas:

• Education through Academics: Cultivating skilled Buddhist scholars and practitioners through formal training.
• Education through Public Outreach: Promoting Buddhist teachings via traditional practices like meditation and modern cultural activities.
• Education through Caring Services: Enhancing compassionate service through education and practical application.

DDM also champions four types of environmentalism: spiritual, natural, living, and social. These principles are integrated into various campaigns and ethical guidelines, such as the Fivefold Spiritual Renaissance Campaign and the Six Ethics of the Mind.

The Jinshan Complex

The international headquarters at Jinshan, New Taipei City, is a comprehensive center comprising monasteries and educational facilities. It serves as the campus for Dharma Drum Sangha University (DDSU), Dharma Drum Buddhist College (DDBC), and the developing Dharma Drum University (DDU). The complex itself is an architectural achievement, designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings and featuring notable elements such as the Guanyin Hall, the Grand Buddha Hall, the world's largest Lotus bell, and serene walking paths that showcase the natural beauty of the area. The organization has also established affiliated centers in fourteen countries across North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania, extending its reach globally.