(China Daily)
Updated: 2008-04-15 07:37

Eminent monks and young Buddhist masters from the mainland, Hong Kong and Taiwan have condemned the recent riots in Tibet, saying disruptive activities go against Buddhist principles.

Master Xue Cheng, deputy secretary-general of the Buddhist Association of China, said at the weekend that Buddhist commandments advocate "kind" and "merciful" behavior and the returning of favors offered by the country, society and people.

"The March 14 riot incurred great losses to people and property and seriously damaged the image of Buddhism.

"The act, which was designed to create disturbance and instability, and realize 'Tibet independence', ran counter to the Buddhist commandments and has been denounced by Buddhists," he said.

Master Hai Tao from Taiwan said Buddhists should love the country, society and the world, and dedicate themselves to the protection of society.

"Damage to peace should not be incurred by Buddhists for whatever reason, especially the act of using violence to disrupt peace in order to achieve some kind of political goal," he said.

"We strongly denounce the disruption of social stability using the Olympics as a pretense."

Master Hong Yuan, also from Taiwan, said the power of Buddha was a bridge linking Taiwan and the mainland, and all people.

He said the Lhasa riots "breached communication and killed the innocent", and called for all Buddhists to be merciful.

"In order to promote an orthodoxy Buddhism, we must not allow a few monks to engage in activities such as assault, vandalism, looting and arson," Master Xian Xin from Hong Kong said.

"We should remind them to return to the teachings of Buddhism and assume due responsibility for the stability and the people in Tibet."

The monks and masters also sent their blessings for this summer's Beijing Olympics, saying they were confident of its success.

Xinhua

(China Daily 04/15/2008 page7)