In-Depth Reflection on the Limits of Modern Civilization and Buddhist Thought
In our fast-paced modern society, are we truly seeking genuine happiness? KBS1TV's 'Documentary ON' presents a two-part special project 'Meditation Humanity' airing on September 13 and 14, which offers answers to these fundamental questions.
Time to Break Free from the Illusions of Civilization
In Part 1, 'Who Am I?', Monk Jinwoo provides sharp insights into modern civilization. He states, "We must break free from the illusion that evolving civilization will make humanity happier," and questions, "What use is scientific advancement if the mind is in distress?"
This serves as a message reminding modern individuals living in an era of uncertainty, marked by climate crises, wars, economic recessions, and the rise of AI, of the urgent need for the Buddhist teaching of 'stopping.'
Wisdom of Life Shared by Global Meditation Practitioners
Part 1 features vivid testimonies from various meditation practitioners, including world-renowned novelist Bernard Werber, anthropologists, religious scholars, scientists, artists, and architects.
French novelist Bernard Werber advises, "Stop thinking right now," while world-famous architect Tadao Ando emphasizes, "Meditation is a power that humans have instinctively carried on." Professor Sung Hae-young from Seoul National University explains, "Traces of meditation have already been found in artifacts from Mohenjo-daro over 2500 years ago," illustrating that meditation is a historical instinct of humanity.
The Effects of Meditation Proven by Neuroscience
Neuroscientist Jang Dong-seon presents scientific evidence, stating, "Meditation calms the clutter in the brain and helps focus on what is necessary." His experiences of meditating for over 40 years since elementary school serve as vivid proof of the practical effects of meditation.
Honest Meditation Experiences from Celebrities
Singer Lee Seung-gi confesses, "I have been running non-stop for 20 years, and only now do I ask what true happiness is." He candidly shares the fundamental questions he has finally posed to himself after achieving success as a singer, MC, and actor.
Pianist Lim Hyun-jung, a 22-year meditation veteran, conveys the realization that "just by existing, I am already happy." His story of enduring a challenging life abroad after moving to France at the age of 12, where "meditation supported me," is deeply moving.
Real Meditation Experience in Nature
Part 2, 'Stop, Look, and Love,' captures a 'meditation journey' taken by actor Kim Ji-ho, broadcaster Kim Dae-ho, columnist Kwak Jeong-eun, and Monk Gwangwoo in the nature of Jeongseon, Gangwon Province for two days and one night.
Monk Gwangwoo guides 'tea meditation' that transforms everyday moments into practice through tea discussions, posing the question, "What is this that I carry around?" This leads viewers into the profound world of Buddhist Ganhwa Seon.
Teachings of Hyunmook Daesongsa Revealing the Depth of Buddhist Seon Meditation
Hyunmook Daesongsa, the head monk of Songgwangsa Temple, conveys, "For a master to lead a disciple to enlightenment, it is to make them hold onto an unknown doubt; that is the method of Hwa-dou," revealing the depth of Buddhist meditation inherent in Ganhwa Seon.
Efforts to Popularize Seon Meditation by the Jogye Order
This documentary is a special project collaboratively planned and produced by the Jogye Order's Future Headquarters (Secretary General Ilgam) and the Jogye Order's Media Promotion Office. The Jogye Order aims to promote the healing of the people's hearts, psychological recovery, and preventive healing through the popularization of Seon meditation. The efforts of the Jogye Order to ensure that Buddhist practices live and breathe in the lives of modern individuals are concretely realized through this broadcast.
Reasons Why Modern People Turn to Meditation
The population seeking meditation, which pursues inner exploration and self-transcendence, is rapidly increasing worldwide, breaking free from the logic of material civilization. In a paradoxical situation where the 'thinking power' that allowed Homo sapiens to achieve rapid civilizational development is exhausting modern individuals, meditation offers a new breakthrough.
When humans are swayed by complex thoughts and emotions, they make errors in thought and action. This is because their inner selves become chaotic and muddled. This is why humans have sought answers to life through self-reflection via meditation from ancient times to the present.
Broadcast Schedule and Viewing Information
KBS1TV 'Documentary ON - Meditation Humanity' will air Part 1 'Who Am I?' on Saturday, September 13 at 10:15 PM, and Part 2 'Stop, Look, and Love' on Sunday, September 14 at 8:10 PM.
This documentary, which reflects on the limits of modern civilization and explores the meaning of true happiness, is expected to provide deep comfort and insight to modern individuals weary from their busy lives. It will be a precious time to confirm that meditation is not just a simple rest but a wisdom that offers fundamental answers to life.
Written by / Healing News Publisher Hyesun Oh Ji-hyun