The Abode of Still Thoughts

(Translated by Stephen Tang)

Chinese version

"Still Thoughts" was the Buddhist religious name that Master Cheng Yen chose for herself just before she became a nun. An "abode" is a place where a Buddhist cultivates his spirituality. The Abode of Still Thoughts is the birthplace of the Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Merit Association [the forerunner of the Tzu Chi Foundation]. It is also the spiritual root of the world of Tzu Chi. It is located in Kanglo Village, Hsincheng Township, Hualien County, Taiwan. Tzu Chi members call it "the headquarters," "the Abode," and "the spiritual home of all Tzu Chi people."

The original land for the Abode was purchased and donated by Master Cheng Yen's mother in 1966. With her help and a bank mortgage, the construction of the Abode formally began in 1969. Later, with the increasing demand for space due to the expanding work of the foundation, another mortgage was incurred to purchase more land for additional buildings.

Currently the Abode of Still Thoughts includes the main hall, Kuan Yin Hall, classrooms, nuns' dormitory, women's dormitory, men's dormitory, dining hall, offices, vegetable garden, fruit garden, etc.

Because of its simple, elegant design in a quiet, peaceful environment, the Abode has its very special style and significance in Buddhist architecture. In addition, the Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation is now an internationally known and well respected organization. Therefore, the Abode of Still Thoughts has become an important destination for many domestic and international visitors to Hualien.