Buddhism in Taiwan - Recent Growth

Recent Growth

Statistics provided by the Interior Ministry show that Taiwan's Buddhist population grew from 800,000 in 1983 to 4.9 million in 1995, a 600 percent increase against an overall population rise of about twelve percent. Additionally, in the same period the number of registered Buddhist temples increased from 1,157 to 4,020, and the number of monks and nuns was up 9,300 monks and nuns, up from 3,470 in 1983.14. This trend can be attributed to the activity of various charismatic teachers, such as those mentioned above.

There are also a number of other factors, which can be attributed to the increase. Since the late 70s there has been a decrease in Christian presence (175 BWC). With less competition Buddhism has been able to flourish and appeal to a wider audience. A number of other factors are also important such as a general search for identity among Taiwanese citizens, increased urbanization as well as a sense of isolation in an increasingly impersonal society (175 BWC). Naturally this would lead to an increase in the participation for a number of religions however Buddhism has definitely benefited.

Aside from societal influences there have also been a number of developments when it comes to the Buddhist community. As Buddhist groups become more involved in people’s everyday lives there has been a general push to make the teachings of Buddhism more relevant and applicable to modern- day issues such as environmental protection, human rights and stress management.

Economic growth and general prosperity has also been an important factor for Buddhism in Taiwan. As people acquire time-saving goods such as cars and appliances, extra time can be allocated to an activity which can help provide meaning or a goal to people’s lives. This has definitely been the case in Taiwan where people look for deeper satisfaction beyond the immediate and the materialistic. Economic prosperity has also meant that donations and volunteering have increased throughout a number of Taiwanese communities.

Historical elements have a part to play. Buddhism faced severe challenges between 1949-78. Buddhism, among other aspects, was seen as an aspect of Chinese culture that was holding the nation back. Many monks and nuns were forced to give up their monastic lives and become part general society. It wasn’t until 1978 that Buddhism has been able to re-surface on the mainland.

However there has been a different experience in Taiwan. Significant funding and a more liberal approach to religion as enabled Taoism, Buddhism and other folk religions to spread. This different environment has enabled Taiwan to become, what some consider now as the centre of Chinese Buddhism with many schools, temples and shrines established all over the island by many prominent Buddhist leaders. This growth has seen Buddhism become a very significant religious presence in Taiwan.