Bhiksuni Wu Yin

Taiwan

Venerable Bhiksuni Wu Yin received her novice vows in 1957 and her Bhiksuni vows in 1959. As the Abbess of Luminary Temple in Chia-Yi and founder of Luminary Buddhist Institute she oversees programs for monastic and laypeople, as well as, translation and publishing projects at the Luminary International Buddhist Society (LIBS).

She studied at the Chinese Culture University and made advanced studies in Hawaii, USA. Bhiksuni Wu Yin decided to help Bhiksunis find a meaningful role in modern society via education. She established 6 urban Dharma Centers and a forest Dhamma Center at Xiang Guang Shan Temple. Her urban centers focus on teaching Buddhism via dialogue and discussion rather than lecture, which has proven successful.

Regarding her Bhiksuni disciples, she has sent them to experience Theravada Buddhism. She has also sent then to other Asian countries and to Western countries to make advanced studies in Buddhism, Psychology, Education and History. With her keen, open and active mind she has built a solid bridge connecting Buddhism to the modern world.

As an expert in teaching Bhiksuni Vinaya, the Venerable has taught in Taiwan, India, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Myanmar, and encouraged the development of Bhikkhunis in the Theravada and Vajrayana lineages. Bhiksuni Wu Yin works to improve the status of Bhiksunis.

She can cultivate team-spirit, and therefore there are over 100 Bhiksunis in the LIBS. She has also brought forth peace and understanding by participating in International Buddhist Conferences, in particular in 2009 on Sangha Education. She has constructed a library, made a magazine and established a translation group and publishing association.

Her brilliance shines forth repeatedly and even in the architecture of her temples which have received architectural awards for innovation and creativity. The "19th Architect Magazine Award" went to Zizhulin Dharma Center in Kaohsiung which derives its style and concept from the Lotus Sutra. Also, the Yanghui Dharma Center in Taichung won 2 awards for architectural excellence as its open space allows interaction with the modern city.