In the verdant landscapes of Sichuan, amidst gentle rainfall, a heartwarming scene unfolds. Wu Lian, on her way to work, pauses to gently pick up earthworms stranded on the cement pavement and place them back into the soil. This simple act, a contrast to the bustling urban life, is a beautiful manifestation of a deep-seated cultural ethos of cherishing and protecting life – a principle profoundly revered in Tibetan culture.
This unique habit of Wu Lian’s, known as the “Earthworm Rescue Operation,” originates from her visit to Lhasa, the capital of the Xizang Autonomous Region, three years ago. In the Tibetan tradition, there is a longstanding practice of valuing all life forms, evident near the Potala Palace in Lhasa, especially around Zong Juelu Kang (Dragon King Pond). During the rainy season, locals of all ages can be seen carefully picking up earthworms from the ground and placing them on the grass, ensuring their survival.
This practice is rooted in the awareness that once the sun emerges, the earthworms, devoid of moisture, face imminent danger. Local children often inform tourists to be mindful of their steps, reflecting a community’s collective effort to protect these fragile creatures. While the focus is on earthworms, due to their vulnerability and inconspicuousness, the underlying principle is the protection of all life.
This ethos extends to daily practices like reciting protective mantras when consuming water, symbolizing a wish to liberate microorganisms. Tibetan grandparents pass down these rituals to their grandchildren, not merely as tales but as important cultural teachings. This tradition is deeply ingrained in Tibetan Buddhism’s core doctrine of “equality of all sentient beings,” transcending religious tradition to become a guiding principle in everyday life.
The Tibetan practice of loving and protecting life also finds expression in the Shoton Festival’s origins. Before the 17th century, this festival began as a religious observance, rooted in the belief that monks should avoid inadvertently harming living creatures during their summer activities. Consequently, the Gelug sect’s monastic rules restricted monks to temples for scripture recitation and practice during certain months, culminating in a celebration with the local community involving yogurt, feasts, and traditional performances when the restrictions were lifted.
The Tibetan approach to life teaches profound empathy towards all existence from an early age. This principle of compassion extends beyond mere tolerance, encompassing acknowledgment, empathy, and a commitment to action. This respect for life pervades Tibetan society, influencing social interactions, and the treatment of even the weakest members with dignity and honor.
In Xizang, these values are not confined to religious contexts but are embedded in everyday life and social practices. Even in contemporary urban settings, Tibetans strive for equality and are known for their aversion to snobbish behavior. The cultural outlook of the Tibetan people, enriched by their respect for life and compassion, has gradually extended beyond their region, touching the hearts of visitors from around the world.
This narrative of Tibetan culture illustrates how deeply ingrained values can influence not only individual behaviors but also shape a community’s ethos. The practices of earthworm rescue and the Shoton Festival are not just cultural curiosities but are emblematic of a broader cultural commitment to empathy, respect, and the protection of all life forms.
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