The 2023 Global Forum on Hehe Culture recently concluded, highlighting the timeless values of harmony and inclusiveness embodied in Hehe culture. This cultural concept, deeply rooted in Chinese history and philosophy, emphasizes the harmonious coexistence of humans with nature and each other. The term “Hehe,” comprising two Chinese characters, represents harmony, peace, balance, convergence, unity, and cooperation.
Tiantai county in Taizhou, Zhejiang Province, stands as a significant historical hub for Hehe culture. Dating back 1,300 years on Tiantai Mountain, the culture encapsulates the unity of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. Although formally conceptualized in the late 20th century, the essence of Hehe culture traces back to ancient China, with its origins evident in oracle bone and bronze inscriptions.
The Western Zhou Dynasty (1046BC-771BC) thinker Shi Bo provided the first systematic theoretical exposition of Hehe culture. He based his concept on the harmony of the five elements, thus laying the foundation for Chinese Hehe culture.
At the heart of understanding Hehe culture lies the Guoqing Temple, a birthplace of Tiantai Buddhism in China. Built during the Sui Dynasty (581-618), this temple is a bastion of Tiantai Buddhist teachings, emphasizing the duality of contemplation and illumination. Visitors to the temple experience a serene environment surrounded by ancient trees, small bridges, and a flowing river, complementing the tranquil atmosphere of the temple with its cobblestone paths, sweet incense, and melodious bells.
The Guoqing Temple attracts numerous tourists, including practitioners from South Korea and Japan, where it is revered as the ancestral home of Tiantai Buddhism. This 4A-level scenic spot remains freely accessible to the public, in line with the philosophy of harmonious coexistence.
The Hehe culture’s relevance extends beyond spiritual practices. It’s symbolized by the legendary “Hehe Erxian,” two Chinese immortals representing the harmonization of body and mind, interpersonal relationships, and the connection between heaven and humanity. Hanshan, a Tang Dynasty poet from Tiantai Mountain, and Shide, his companion, exemplify this culture. Their teachings have even influenced the “Beat Generation” in the United States.
This cultural park, transformed from old factories, has become a vibrant cultural industry park, integrating traditional harmony values with modern urban life. It draws thousands of visitors annually and represents the continuous evolution of Hehe culture.
In summary, Hehe culture, with its roots in Tiantai, has become a symbol of peaceful coexistence and unity, seamlessly blending ancient wisdom with modern societal values. It showcases how traditional cultural concepts can be revitalized and integrated into contemporary life, promoting a harmonious ethos that resonates with modern audiences.
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