Inspiring declaration closes Taoist forum
- By Zhang Rui
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E-mail China.org.cn, November 27, 2014
The Third International Taoist Forum closed with an inspiring declaration on the evening of Nov. 26 in Yingtan, Jiangxi Province.
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A Taoist musical performance at the closing ceremony of the Third International Taoist Forum on the evening of Nov. 26 in Yingtan, Jiangxi Province. [Photo/China.org.cn] |
The declaration said that at present, science and technology flourishes and people's minds turn towards goodness. However, "there are still problems to address in the areas of the natural environment, society and human civilization," it noted. "The solution open to us today is to take our stand in the present and maintain our traditions, to draw together in the ancient Taoist hills and bathe in their mysterious aura, to respect and trust each other, allowing for differences while seeking common ground, bringing an end to conflict and enjoying the fruits of cooperation together."
The declaration appealed to Taoist followers to act in accordance with the ways of nature and respect all living things. "May harmonious acceptance neutralize conflict, may we embody pure stillness in body and spirit, washed clean of greed and desire, in recognition of our plenty, may we live long and enjoy great foresight," the declaration continued.
Wang Zuo'an, director of the State Administration of Religious Affairs, said the forum paid great attention to the important problems faced by human society and tried to seek solutions by applying the wisdom and philosophy of Taoism. Wang asserted that the Taoist world is acting upon its knowledge and practical experience in a new era to help improve the world and shoulder the responsibilities of the age. He said the forum will inspire Taoists to serve society and promote social virtue in the contemporary era.
He also hoped that followers of Taoism can adapt themselves to changes in the times and the demands of society, exploring the essence of Taoist culture and demonstrating its modern values to reinvigorate themselves. Wang said he expected Taoists in all countries and regions of the world will have more communication and exchange with each other to help maintain world peace and benefit the human race.
The 2-day International Taoist Forum was held in Yingtan, drawing together nearly 500 Taoist representatives and special guests from 27 countries and regions including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France and South Korea. Several sub-forums and TV forums were held at the Forum, a feature noted in the closing declaration, which said, "The forum will see our ideas elevated through our debates and talks and discussions, and our knowledge will be thoroughly united through our interactions."
Hundreds of prominent figures, including Xu Jialu, former vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, Zhu Weiqun, director of the Committee for Ethnic and Religious Affairs of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Master Ren Farong, President of the Chinese Taoist Association, and Jiang Jianyong, the secretary-general and vice chairman of the China Religious Culture Communication Association, attended the closing ceremony. Guests at the ceremony enjoyed Taoist performances and a song by famous singer Johnny Jiang Yuheng.
The declaration, read by Vice President of the Chinese Taoist Association Zhang Jiyu, also listed a variety of hopeful goals for Taoism's role in future society, saying, "May we seek to benefit others without doing harm, to act without competing or striving. The multitude of appearances is myriad while the Great Tao is simplicity in the extreme; following the way of Nature, may we embrace our original simplicity and preserve our true nature."
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