Katherine Nguyen, a devoted Buddhist, recently visited the Wei Mountain Temple in Rosemead, California, where she was deeply moved by a rare collection of relics believed to belong to Shakyamuni Buddha. Standing reverently at the altar, she reflected on the significance of being in proximity to objects with such historical and spiritual weight.
### The Display of Relics
Every year during Lunar New Year, the Wei Mountain Temple displays a substantial collection termed the “10,000 Buddha Relics.” However, according to Master YongHua, the temple’s founder, the actual number greatly exceeds this figure, populating various glass cases and miniature stupas. The displayed relics include bone and tooth fragments believed to be from the Buddha as well as from his disciples and relatives. Additionally, the collection features shariras—small, colorful, pearl-like objects said to emerge from the cremate remains of revered Buddhist figures.
In Buddhism, relics serve as living sources of blessings, distinct from those in Christianity, where they are often viewed as historic links to saints. Buddhist tradition holds that relics may possess the ability to multiply and are tangible manifestations of spiritual significance. They are typically enshrined in stupas, sacred monuments used for meditation and pilgrimage.
### Relics in Context
The largest relics in Rosemead’s collection are notably larger than standard human remains; Master YongHua explained that these relics have “grown” over time. This phenomenon includes the emergence of smaller shariras from the primary tooth relic. While different Buddhist sects recognize the spiritual role of relics, some contemporary teachings emphasize mindfulness and compassion over the reverence of physical objects. Relics can be found globally wherever Buddhism has a historical presence, including countries such as India, Japan, and Thailand.
Despite their widespread acceptance, the authenticity of such relics has been questioned in recent years due to the prevalence of counterfeit items. These forgeries often appear in markets and online shopping platforms, regularly accompanied by fraudulent certificates of authenticity. A notable case in Singapore involved a tooth relic presented by a local temple, which was later determined by dental specialists to likely belong to an animal rather than a human.
### Faith and Skepticism
Master YongHua remains firm in his belief regarding the Rosemead relics, asserting their capacity to inspire faith and even promote healing. He claims to have witnessed the miraculous properties of the relics firsthand, reporting experiences of movement and levitation.
John Strong, a scholar and author specializing in Buddhist studies, noted that the earliest records of the Buddha’s funeral date back to ancient texts from the 2nd century B.C.E. These texts describe the emergence of relics from the Buddha’s ashes, often depicted as luminous jewels. Various interpretations suggest that these relics serve as a crucial connection for the faithful to the Buddha, who is considered to have transcended the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
Contrasting views exist within the Buddhist community. Geshe Tenzin Zopa, a Tibetan monk, recounts witnessing pearl-like relics appear during the cremation of his teacher, further emphasizing their sacred nature. He articulated that the presence of such relics is perceived not as morbid curiosity but as an act of devotion, demonstrating the spiritual realization of revered gurus.
### The Role of Relics in Modern Buddhism
In the United States, the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist order has taken a measured stance on the matter of relics. Venerable Hui Ze, a representative of the order, articulated that their founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, encouraged followers to integrate Buddhist teachings into daily life rather than becoming enraptured by the pursuit of relics. Following Hsing Yun’s passing earlier this year at the age of 95, relics were discovered among his cremains, yet they remain undisturbed in adherence to his wishes.
These relics will officially be enshrined in the Southern California headquarters of the Fo Guang Shan order during an upcoming ceremony. Hui Ze expressed a profound connection experienced upon viewing the relic, describing it as an invaluable link to the Buddha’s teachings.
As the Buddhist community continues to navigate the enduring fascination with relics, challenges regarding authenticity and interpretation prevail. Yet the faith and spirituality inherent in these objects remain an essential aspect of the Buddhist tradition, bridging the ancient teachings of the Buddha with modern practices.
Source: Original Reporting
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