Ecology, Our Companion in Peace

For some time, we have been dedicated to endeavors ranging from religion and peacebuilding to ecological harmony. Integrated within this vision, the ideal of “spiritual ecology” is a philosophy that emphasizes respecting the intrinsic value of all existence, embracing the space that every being occupies, and fostering a shared appreciation of life’s collective achievements. This concept aligns with the vision and mission of the Museum of World Religions, which promotes respect, tolerance, and love. While the museum fosters religious harmony, spiritual ecology teaches us to honor the value of all beings in the ecosystem. Every blade of grass and every tree has a purpose and a history. For a tree to grow strong, it must withstand the trials of brutal winds and heavy rain, learning to adapt, survive, and ultimately thrive.

Ecology is the foundation of our interdependence, a true companion to life itself. Every plant and tree must be nurtured and cared for. Spirituality, like water, nourishes all life—offering love, permeating warmth, and fostering growth to its fullest potential. Just as we nurture children with unconditional care, seeking only their well-being, we must extend the same spiritual loving-kindness to all beings. This is how we protect nature and ensure its sustainability—by recognizing that we, as inhabitants of the Earth, are interconnected partners in a diverse and interdependent ecosystem. Today, religious communities are increasingly embracing this perspective, finding common ground among different faiths. This is why Master Hsin Tao envisions uniting religions as guardians of ecology, working together to bring peace and healing to a world in crisis. 

Decades ago, ecological awareness was not widely recognized. Now, we are gradually awakening to the profound interconnection between nature and life, realizing that all existence arises from our primordial awareness. This awareness is the root of everything—the spiritual soil in which life flourishes. However, internalizing this understanding requires patience and deep realization. Some may believe this has little to do with them, but that is not the case. Even as the pandemic subsides, disasters caused by the imbalance of the four elements continue to strike. These events remind us of the consequences of disregarding our interconnectedness with nature. To address these challenges, we must cultivate the bodhisattva path—a long-term commitment rooted in love and compassion. With the wise spirituality of the buddhadharma, we can nurture all life and foster a world of harmonious interdependence.