A Buddhist Renaissance: Awakening in the Age of Decline

22 George Street

In this episode of 22 George Street, we embark on a thought-provoking journey: what if Chinese Buddhism experienced a transformative reformation akin to Martin Luther’s Protestant Reformation? We delve into the historical, cultural, and spiritual dynamics of Chinese Buddhism, exploring how its deep entanglement with power and hierarchy has led to stagnation and a departure from its original teachings.

Through comparisons with Western movements like the Renaissance and the Reformation, we ask: how could a “Buddhist Renaissance” reignite the spirit of humanism, reason, and individual empowerment? We envision a hypothetical "New Buddhism" that modernizes texts, dismantles hierarchies, and encourages rational, critical engagement with the teachings, offering a path to spiritual awakening and social progress.

Join us as we explore how this reimagined Buddhism could challenge conformity, inspire freedom of thought, and enrich the spiritual and intellectual landscape of modern society. Whether you’re a seeker of wisdom, a student of history, or simply curious about the intersections of faith and reform, this episode will leave you with plenty to reflect on.