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the sutras how he spoke to different people—farmers It is important though that the content of such
and merchants, outcasts and royalty, young and old, expressive media should be based on the Dhamma
men and women, monks and nuns—according to each which must be relevant to the youths. For example,
person’s understanding and need. songs could be composed about the suffering of
growing up, being bullied, peer pressure, the stress of
Demonstrating respect for others, and meeting people competition, falling in and out of love, etc. all linked
where they were, the Buddha gave relevant analogies to desire and causes and conditions. Or they could be
and emphasized logic and reasoning, which younger about the joy and happiness of giving, letting go, the 4
people tend to appreciate. brahmavihāras, being in the present, and so forth.

To attract younger audiences, we need to talk with Min Wei: Balancing innovation with preserving
them, find out about their struggles, what they’re traditional practices requires thoughtful integration.
interested in and how the Dharma can benefit their Innovating involves presenting teachings through
lives. For example, many young people attending Abbey contemporary mediums such as digital platforms,
events want to know how to manage their emotions, interactive workshops, and social media, making
and deal with depression and stress in their lives. them accessible and relatable. Emphasizing practical
They’re newly exploring their own values, who they are applications of mindfulness, compassion, and
and who they want to be. Many are deeply concerned ethical conduct in everyday life speaks to modern
with social and environmental issues and are curious concerns and interests. At the same time, preserving
how Buddhist concepts, especially about respect and the essence of Buddhist teachings necessitates a
compassion for all beings, can be applied to these issues. deep understanding and careful translation of core
They’re also concerned with romantic relationships, and principles like impermanence, suffering, and wisdom.
how to relate to their parents as young adults. We must It involves maintaining the transformative potential
design programs with their interests in mind. and integrity of these teachings through consultation
with experienced practitioners and scholars. By
How do we balance the need to innovate our integrating innovation with a steadfast commitment to
approach to attract younger generations while the foundational values of Buddhism, we can effectively
ensuring that the essence of the traditional practices engage younger generations while ensuring the
and teachings taught by the Buddha are preserved? teachings retain their profound depth and relevance in
today’s world.
Aggacitta: DJ NewJeansNim dressed like a Buddhist
monk while he sang and danced. This was what upset Tsepal: We can change how we present teachings and
many Buddhists because they were well aware that host activities in Buddhist temples to attract younger
monks are supposed to be restrained and not sing or generations, however the Buddha’s teachings must not
dance. But it is common knowledge that there are some be changed from what the Buddha taught. We can adapt
Buddhist monastics who do play music, sing and dance, the delivery style to different cultures, age ranges and
though not as outrageously as the DJ. Could it be because interests, but without eliminating challenging topics like
they are real monastics but he is not? Double standards? rebirth or karma.

While using music, song and dance as skilful means For example, using modern examples from current events
to propagate the Dhamma may not be appropriate and the students’ own experiences engages their interest.
for a Theravāda monastery, it should be fine for a Discussion questions can help them focus their attention,
lay Buddhist organisation because lay Buddhists are draw from their own experiences, see their similarity
normally only bound by the 5 precepts. In fact some with others and integrate the Dharma into their daily
Christian parishes invest millions on music instruments lives. Videos on YouTube, podcasts, TicTok, fun activities
and AV equipment for their youth to attract new and creative projects at temples bring in the youth.
members and nurture fellowship.