Huashan Buddhist College

Huashan Buddhist College

Introduction

A monastic education base highly esteemed and praised by eminent monks and devotees at home and abroad. Introducing...

...

Huashan Buddhist College is a local intermediate-level Buddhist college. Its journal is called "Sweet Dew," with the college name inscribed by Zhao Puchu, former Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and President of the Buddhist Association of China. The college was founded and presided over by Venerable Rende, President of the Huashan Buddhist Association. The current Vice President and Dean of the Buddhist Association of China, Venerable Shenghui, once served as the first Executive Vice Dean. The current vice deans are Venerable Guozhuo and Venerable Kuangrong. Preparations began in April 1990, and the first opening ceremony was held on September 6. Zhao Puchu also attended.

College Mission: To propagate the Buddha’s teachings and continue the wisdom of the Dharma.

Student Source: In line with the principle of "emphasizing quality over quantity," several classes of students have been admitted. Students mainly come from the local province, with some from other provinces. Admission criteria include being a monk aged 18–20 with firm faith, regular features, complete senses, and at least junior high school education.

Duration: Two years. Over four semesters, more than 20 courses are offered, including "Basic Buddhist Knowledge," "The Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch," "Outline of the Eight Schools," "Diamond Sutra," "Shurangama Sutra," and "Vinaya Studies."

Educational Approach: "Integration of study and practice, college as a monastic community." No summer vacation is given; students observe the rainy season retreat, recite precepts bi-monthly, follow morning and evening rituals, and engage in meals and meditation.

Career Paths: Graduates have either stayed at the college or in the mountain area, or have been assigned by the Buddhist Association of China to temples across the country or returned to their original temples.

Tip: You can also visit the famous Sweet Dew Temple, a notable site on Mount Huashan.