A controversial spiritual movement combining Mahayana Buddhism with modern practices and facing significant legal challenges.
Guanyin Famen, also known as the Quan Yin Method, is a spiritual movement founded in 1988 by Ching Hai, a Vietnamese-born Chinese teacher. This new religious movement blends traditional Buddhist practices with modern elements and incorporates influences from Christianity, Taoism, and Hinduism. Ching Hai’s teachings center on the Quan Yin method of meditation, which focuses on the “inner light and sound” of God or Buddha, aiming to provide rapid spiritual progress and eventual enlightenment.
Central to the movement is a strict ethical code, including adherence to a vegan diet and the Five Precepts of Buddhism: no killing, lying, stealing, sexual misconduct, or intoxicants. Full initiation into the Quan Yin Method requires a lifelong commitment to veganism and at least two hours of daily meditation, while a lighter form of initiation mandates abstaining from meat for ten days each month and a half-hour of daily meditation.
The movement has a significant international presence, with over two million disciples worldwide, including about 300,000 in Taiwan. It operates vegan restaurants, meditation centers, and Supreme Master Television, a satellite TV channel promoting Ching Hai’s teachings and environmental awareness. Despite its spiritual and humanitarian endeavors, Guanyin Famen has faced substantial opposition, particularly in China and Vietnam, where it is banned and labeled as a “heterodox teaching” and an “evil cult.” Members have been arrested and sentenced for their involvement in the group, accused of using businesses as fronts for recruitment and wealth accumulation.
Ching Hai’s movement is characterized by a syncretic approach, integrating elements from various religious traditions. She often references religious figures like Jesus Christ and Buddha, presenting them as enlightened masters with similar teachings. This inclusivity has been both praised and criticized for its selective interpretation of religious traditions.
Financially, the movement has faced scrutiny. While criticized for potential exploitation and swindling, a review by Chuck McLean of GuideStar indicated that the American chapters of Guanyin Famen appear to utilize their funds for legitimate causes. Ching Hai herself is known for her extravagant lifestyle and global travels, funded by donations from her followers.
Despite controversies, Guanyin Famen remains influential, particularly in East and Southeast Asia, and among overseas Asian communities in Western countries. It continues to attract followers with its promise of immediate enlightenment, spiritual advancement, and commitment to environmental sustainability through a vegan lifestyle. The movement’s focus on climate change and collaboration with environmental organizations have increased its visibility in discussions about sustainability and animal rights.
image via suprememastertv.com
