北京佛教居士林

Hidden behind a green gate, the Beijing Buddhist Jushi Lin whispers tales of resilience. This unassuming courtyard holds a unique place in Beijing’s spiritual landscape. It’s the only lay Buddhist practice center officially sanctioned by the government. The Beijing Buddhist Jushi Lin’s story begins in 1929. Notable figures like Hu Ruiqing, also known as Zi Teng, established the Hua Bei Ju Shi Lin. This was the precursor to the Beijing Buddhist Jushi Lin we see today. In 1930, the community pooled resources. They acquired 39 rooms at 11 Xi’anmen Outer Street. This became their permanent home, marked by a stone inscription. Before the war, Hu Ruiqing retreated to Wutai Mountain for deeper practice. Despite the tumultuous times, the Beijing Buddhist Jushi Lin continued to grow. In 1945, it was renamed Bei Ping Ju Shi Lin. After the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, the Jushi Lin encouraged its members to engage in productive labor. They established a “Friends Needlework Society” to generate income. They even opened a vocational supplementary school. In 1949, the name officially changed to Beijing Buddhist Jushi Lin. It received government approval in 1952. Difficult years followed. By 1958, external entities occupied the property. It was converted into factories and family dormitories. Revival came in 1980. Monthly chanting ceremonies resumed. Grand Dharma assemblies were held on Buddha’s birthday. Senior monks were invited to give teachings. The Jushi Lin also engaged in social welfare activities. Temporarily operating from Guangji Temple, the community worked tirelessly to reclaim their original site. Success came in 1994. Sadly, the original buildings were dilapidated. Through donations, the site was restored to its former glory. Today, the Beijing Buddhist Jushi Lin is a modest complex. Rebuilt structures surround a courtyard. A white wall displays a statue of Weimo Jushi. The main hall houses the Dharma lecture hall. Flanking buildings serve administrative and reception purposes. Incense burners and cushions fill the central courtyard. A wall behind the main hall commemorates the site’s reconstruction. A vegetarian restaurant on the south side caters to the community’s needs. The Beijing Buddhist Jushi Lin is more than just a place of worship. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of lay Buddhist practice in China.