滿可法師 Ven. Man Ko
2024-05-17
The oral history interview with Venerable Man Ko, conducted by Venerable Jue Fang on May 17,18 and 20, 2024, at Nan Tien Temple, offers a deep exploration of Venerable Man Ko's personal and professional journey within the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist order.
Born in Kedah, Malaysia, in 1963, she grew up in a large, close-knit family, where her early life experiences shaped her values of harmony, responsibility, and independence. Her path to monastic life was inspired by a desire to seek deeper meaning in life, which led her to encounter Venerable Master Hsing Yun and the teachings of Humanistic Buddhism.
The interview highlights her pivotal role in the construction of Nan Tien Temple in Wollongong, Australia. Appointed by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Venerable Man Ko was instrumental in overseeing the entire process, from initial planning to the temple's completion in 1995. She shares detailed accounts of the challenges faced during the construction, including securing local support, managing a diverse workforce, and overcoming financial constraints. Despite these obstacles, Nan Tien Temple was successfully established and has since become a significant cultural and spiritual landmark.
Venerable Man Ko also reflects on her broader contributions to spreading Humanistic Buddhism in Australia and New Zealand. As the Chief Abbess of Oceania, she not only played a crucial role in the temple's physical construction but also in fostering community engagement, education, and cultural exchange. She initiated programs that connected immigrants and local Australians, promoted environmental awareness through events like Clean Up Australia Day, and supported education through the establishment of the Nan Tien Institute.
Her leadership extended beyond the temple's physical development, emphasising the importance of cultural integration and spiritual cultivation. Venerable Man Ko envisioned Nan Tien Temple as a place where Buddhism and modern society could coexist, providing spiritual guidance, education, and community service. Through her dedication, she has helped bridge cultural divides and promote the values of compassion, wisdom, and social harmony.
Overall, the interview provides a rich narrative of Venerable Man Ko's life and work, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of leading a major Buddhist temple and spreading the teachings of Humanistic Buddhism across the Southern Hemisphere. Her tireless efforts have left a lasting legacy, contributing to the growth of Buddhism in Australia and fostering a deeper understanding of its values in a modern, multicultural context.
