Cheng Yen
- Born:
- May 14, 1937, Kiyomizu, Taichung, Taiwan
- Nationality:
- Taiwanese
- Profession(s):
- Buddhist Nun, Philanthropist, Religious Leader, Social Activist
Early Life and Education
- Born as Chin-Yun Wong (王錦雲).
- Orphaned at a young age.
- Developed a strong interest in Buddhism and social issues during her youth.
Career and Major Achievements
- Ordained as a Buddhist nun in 1963 by Venerable Master Yin Shun, who gave her the Dharma name Cheng Yen.
- Founded the Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation in 1966.
- Tzu Chi Foundation has become one of the largest humanitarian organizations in the world.
- Spearheaded major disaster relief efforts globally, including in Taiwan, China, and the United States.
- Established Tzu Chi hospitals, schools, and community centers worldwide.
- Promoted environmental protection, vegetarianism, and social harmony.
Notable Works
- Numerous publications on Buddhist philosophy, humanitarianism, and social issues. While there is no single comprehensive 'master cheng yen biography' authored by her, her teachings are compiled in various books and articles.
- Founder and spiritual leader of the Tzu Chi Foundation, a global organization with extensive charitable projects.
Legacy and Impact
Cheng Yen is a highly respected figure known for her unwavering commitment to compassion, humanitarianism, and social welfare. Her founding of the Tzu Chi Foundation has transformed the landscape of disaster relief and charitable giving worldwide, inspiring millions to contribute to a more just and compassionate world.
Tzu Chi Foundation Key Areas
| Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Charity | Providing aid to the needy, including disaster relief, medical assistance, and poverty alleviation. |
| Medicine | Operating hospitals and clinics to provide healthcare to the underserved. |
| Education | Establishing schools and educational programs to promote literacy and lifelong learning. |
| Culture | Promoting ethical behavior and humanistic values. |
| International Relief | Providing assistance to victims of natural and man-made disasters around the globe. |
| Bone Marrow Donation | Running a bone marrow registry to help patients with leukemia and other blood disorders. |
| Environmental Protection | Promoting recycling, waste reduction, and sustainable living practices. |