31 Oct 2004, Kathina@ Nibbana Vihara, Kajang 

31 Oct 2004, Kathina@ Nibbana Vihara, Kajang

We had arrived slightly before 9pm the night before, and had spent the night in a giant outdoor tent, packed side by side with barely enough space to turn. But the atmosphere was joyous, and we had arrived in the midst of a training camp for Buddhist lay volunteers. The campers gladly gave up the giant tent to make way for us, a bus load of people from Singapore.

The day started at 4.30am as we woke up to the cold morning air to meditate. The air was particularly fresh as the Vihara was situated on a little hillock overlooking the surrounding private houses. It was housed in a grand mansion probably owned by a wealthy person before this. See pictures at their website: http://www.mnmc.org/

Several features of NIbbana Vihara & Ven Kai Zhao left a strong impression on me:

1. Emphasis on the importance of the mutual support between the Sangha and the lay people

These were translated into several unique programs. First of all, Nibbana Vihara is the only Theravada centre I know of, which actually conducts annual camps to train laypeople in the proper way to uphold the Sangha and the running of the organisation. The message hammered in repeatedly was "Laypeople can uphold the Sangha by taking on the secular aspects of the Vihara. By doing so, they leave the Sangha with more time to focus on the spiritual duties of practice and teaching."

On the Vihara's notice board was very prominently displayed, pictures of demonstrations on the proper way to conduct oneself in the Sangha's presence. Around the Vihara, seats and platforms reserved for the Sangha were also duly labelled, reminding the lay people of the proper conduct and respect.

There were also opportunities for volunteers to sign up as 'kappiyas' (lay attendants) for short periods of time to support the Sangha's daily living.

2. Everything neatly in place

Everything at the Vihara was about order and system, though without the rigidity and restrictiveness. By contrast, the mood at the Vihara was always joyous and relaxed. The first scene on our arrival at the main shrine hall was two neat blocks of young people seated, listening to Ven Kai Zhao's teachings. All the men were similarly dressed in brown 'sarong' (cloth) and white t-shirt, and the ladies were dressed in brown sarong dresses, white t-shirt and with a brown sash wrapped loosely around the upper hody, the common dressing of Buddhist ladies in countries like Myanmar, and Thailand when they visit the monastery.

Every single pot of plant, stone, chair, Buddha images were meticulously matched, artistically arranged. The result was serenity and support towards the development of joy and concentration in all visitors. Yet in all of these, things are surprisingly simple. The main shrine hall only had a prominent Buddha image in the middle, and cushions were only placed when in use. Accomodation for the monks are wooden kutis (huts) built behind the main building, with two make shift attap roof huts for more accomodation.

3. Emphasis on education and understanding

Every aspect of the Kathina ceremony was explained without being too long-winded. While waiting for the ceremony to begin, emcees introduced the historical background of the Kathina ceremony and its significance. Before the Sangha chanted each blessing or proceeded to the next event, Ven Kai Zhao would give a short encouragement, explaining the benefits to be gained from such a meritorious event. The participants were guided through the ceremony in the way to set their attitudes and mentality.

4. Youths, more youths and talents galore

Just before the pindapatha (monks receiving offerings in their alms bowl as they walk out bare foot) the Kathina participants were usherd to stand along both sides of the slope leading towards the Vihara. As we waited patiently and painfully in our bare feet on the coarse gravel, I observed the Dhamma workers running up and down in between us and I was struck by the realisation. None of them looked beyond 30 or even mid 20s. Of the estimated 30+ helpers, only one or two were grey haired, and a few middle aged. The rest were youngsters bouncing with energy, respectfully and joyfully going about their tasks.

Even the ordained disciples of Ven Kai Zhao were young men. I was told most of them had ordained not long after graduation from the university.

All around the Vihara, products of the youth talent filled the place: the beautiful Vihara newsletter, decorated notice boards, administration office filled with young people...

It was a beautiful sight and a demonstration to me that Buddhist youth with good guidance (in this case by Ven Kai Zhao) can be the best and most respectful Dhamma protectors.

IT was very clear that the Vihara's objective of being an 'oasis' in the busy city is well set on the way to success.

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