As the 115-1 semester begins, the Department of Buddhist Studies at Fo Guang University is pleased to announce a new series of academic activities. The semester will open with two English-language guest lectures by distinguished international scholars, offering students and faculty opportunities to engage with important topics in Buddhist Studies from historical, social, and interdisciplinary perspectives.

Is There a Buddhist Holy War? Compassion, Doctrine, and the Justification of Violence from Ancient India to Modern Asia

The first lecture, “Is There a Buddhist Holy War? Compassion, Doctrine, and the Justification of Violence from Ancient India to Modern Asia,” will be delivered by Prof. Dr. Michael Zimmermann of the Numata Center for Buddhist Studies, University of Hamburg.

The lecture examines the complex relationship between Buddhist ideals of compassion and non-violence and the doctrinal arguments and historical circumstances through which violence has at times been justified. Moving from ancient India to modern Asia, Prof. Zimmermann will invite participants to reconsider the relationship between Buddhist doctrine, ethical reasoning, and violence across different historical and cultural contexts.

Date: Friday, September 18, 2026
Venue: N205, Department of Buddhist Studies, Fo Guang University
Language: English

Buddhist Philanthropy and the Hope School Project in the Era of Shale Modernity

The second lecture, “Buddhist Philanthropy and the Hope School Project in the Era of Shale Modernity,” will be delivered by Prof. Khun Eng KUAH, Adjunct Professor at the National University of Singapore.

Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Time: 14:10–15:10, followed by Q&A
Venue: N208, Department of Buddhist Studies, Fo Guang University
Language: English; Q&A in English and Mandarin

These two lectures mark the beginning of an exciting program of guest lectures and academic events planned for the 115-1 semester. Through these activities, the Department of Buddhist Studies seeks to promote international academic exchange, broaden students’ perspectives, and provide opportunities for meaningful dialogue with scholars from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds.

Faculty members, students, and all those interested in Buddhist Studies are warmly invited to attend.

More guest lectures and academic activities will take place throughout the semester. Further information will be announced on the Department of Buddhist Studies website as each event approaches.