Speech 景威道长 jǐng wēi dào cháng in the First Meeting of the First Council of World Federation of Daoism

诸位道友,道协领导,大家早上好 zhū wèi dào yǒu, dào xié lǐngdǎo, dàjiā zǎoshang hǎ

I am honored to deliver this speech to express my deepest gratitude to all. Today, we stand at the dawn of a remarkable era, one that promises to enhance the global tapestry of spiritual and cultural understanding between east and west. With the establishment of the new Changchun Temple to Mexico, we are not merely introducing a place of worship; we are inaugurating a profound cultural symbol. It represents cross-cultural harmony and the enduring legacy of traditional Chinese culture and Daoist philosophy. This momentous occasion signifies more than the physical construction of a temple; it embodies our shared vision of promoting peace, balance, and understanding through the timeless teachings of Daoism worldwide.

The Changchun Temple, nestled in the heart of North America, is a strong testament to Daoist principles’ universal appeal and adaptability, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries to resonate with people from diverse backgrounds. Its creation marks a significant step forward in our collective mission to foster a deeper appreciation for Daoist culture’s rich traditions, spiritual practices, and holistic worldview, emphasizing harmony between humanity and the natural world. This Daoism’s temple will serve as a vibrant hub for cultural exchange, enriching our spiritual and cultural understanding and fostering a global community to be more balanced, harmony, inclusive and united by Daoist wisdom. As we collectively embark on this exciting chapter, the Changchun Daoist’s Temple stands as a beacon of hope and international unity, illustrating the power of traditional Chinese cultural exchange and the importance of preserving spiritual heritage of Dao and Chinese culture. It invites us to reflect on our shared humanity and values, engage in meaningful dialogue, and embrace Laozi’s wisdom in navigating modern life’s complexities. Let us celebrate this monumental achievement and the bright future it heralds, not only for the World Federation of Daoism but for all individuals seeking spiritual growth and cultural connection around the globe.

However, the rising impact of the Daoism’s globalisation trend could also arise some potential concerns. Due the legal and cultural differences, we may propose some code of conducts to specify the Daoism’s religious activities worldwide. Our Quan Zhen Daoism is strictly emphasising on Jie Lv, also kown as disciplines. Like 道德经 says “天得一以请,地得一以宁”。»Tiān dé yī yǐ qǐng, dì dé yī yǐ níng»

This 一 mainly refers the rule. Therefore, I would like to propose some of my thoughts on managing the international Daoism’s rule for all our international Daoists.

To promote the global spread and appreciation of Daoism while maintaining its core values, I propose the establishment of a worldwide network of Daoist centers. These centers will act as local hubs for Daoist culture and practices, offering spaces for meditation, teaching, and the promotion and preservation of Daoist culture globally. The Daoism Center in Beijing will be responsible for overseeing the authorization of existing Daoist associations worldwide, such as recognizing the newly established Changchun Temple in Mexico as the official Daoist Center for Mexico, at no cost. However, members will be required to annually purchase an official certificate to support the Daoism’s global development and the International Daoism Association System.

Each center will establish the corresponding religious rules and adhere to the core teachings and practices of Daoism while also respecting and integrating local cultural traditions. Efforts will be made to promote cross-cultural exchanges and learning to foster mutual understanding and respect among various cultures. The centers will offer educational programs on Daoist scriptures, Daoism’s history, Laozi’s philosophy, and meditation techniques, potentially in multiple languages to accommodate international students. These programs may include workshops, lectures, and courses for both beginners and advanced practitioners. A scientifically designed curriculum will aim to expand the influence of Daoism and Chinese culture, similar to the approach of the Confucius Institute.

Traditional practices such as meditation and fasting will be adapted to meet the needs of practitioners from diverse cultural backgrounds, ensuring a more inclusive and accessible approach. The centers will participate in community services and charitable activities, including medical aid, educational support, and environmental conservation. There will be encouragement for collaboration among Daoist organizations globally to undertake joint cultural and philanthropic projects. Additionally, modern media and online platforms will be utilized to promote Daoist culture and philosophy worldwide, including online courses, webinars, and cultural exchange events.

In alignment with Daoism’s emphasis on harmony with nature, global Daoist centers will actively participate in environmental conservation and support sustainable development initiatives. International exchanges and collaborations among scholars and practitioners will be encouraged, including academic research, conferences, and seminars, to advance the study of Daoism and foster global understanding.

A governance model resembling a Western Democratic System will be adopted to discuss important issues and form international Daoist doctrines. While adhering to national laws, actions will be guided by Daoist doctrines. Establishing a universal code of conduct will be crucial to prevent the use of deceptive practices and forbidden witchcraft, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of Daoist rituals and teachings.

In conclusion, several months later, the inauguration of the Changchun Temple in Mexico and the establishment of a global network of Daoist centers mark a historic milestone in the journey of Daoism towards international recognition and appreciation. These efforts are not merely about spreading a religious practice but about sharing a  philosophical tradition that emphasizes harmony, balance, and understanding across different beliefs. By integrating Daoist wisdom with respect for local traditions and modern technologies, we are crafting a new model for cultural exchange and spiritual growth that respects the past while embracing the future. This model underscores the importance of ethical conduct, mutual respect, and environmental stewardship, aligning with the core principles of Daoism. As we move forward, let us remain committed to fostering a global community where Daoist teachings contribute to a more peaceful, balanced, and interconnected world. This is not just an achievement for the International Daoism Federation but a beacon of hope for all who seek spiritual depth and cultural richness in their lives. Together, we are laying the foundation for a future where the timeless wisdom of Daoism continues to inspire and guide our believers across the globe.