132 views
“Living responsibility” was the central message of the opening speech by ÖBR President Gerhard Weißgrab on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the state recognition of Buddhism in Austria. In front of 300 guests in the festival hall of the University of Vienna, Weißgrab first gave a historical review of the development of Buddhism in Austria and then clarified what is meant by “living responsibility”: “It has something to do with self-determination. However, conditions are needed to be able to live responsibility. Among other things, it requires insight, knowledge, understanding, but also self-reflection and introspection. Buddhism has a very important tool for this, namely meditation as the first step. The second step is then to go out with this practice in order to support all sentient beings.” In his speech, Weißgrab also pointed out the need for constant dialogue and expressed his joy at being able to welcome so many representatives of other religions as guests. Finally, he announced a video of greetings from Federal Minister Dr. Susanne Raab, which reflects the idea of togetherness and dialogue very well.