Buddhism in Singapore
From Buddhist Encyclopedia
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As of 2000, 42.5% of the Singaporeans registered themselves as Buddhist by religion. Adherents of Buddhism are mostly by the Chinese majority ethnic group, although small minorities of Indian, Sinhalese and Thai Buddhists do exist as well.
Chinese Mahayana Buddhism is the most prevalent form of Buddhism in Singapore. Sizeable communities following other traditions include Theravada and Vajrayana.
History
The presence of Buddhism in Singapore was evident during the Srivijayan times. However, as Islam spread to the local Orang Laut population in the 14th and 15th century, the influence of Buddhism and Hinduism eventually waned and almost disappeared. Buddhism's revival in Singapore is a recent trend, although many of the Chinese inhabitants also mix in Taoism and other Chinese folk religions with worship of some Buddhist figures.
The Singapore census includes detailed data on religion and ethnicity. Figures on Buddhism in 1980 shown that 27% of Singaporeans are Buddhists, up to 31.2% in 1990 and 42.5% in 2000.
It was also noted that there is a significant increase of interest in the Buddhist teachings (Dharma) and practises (i.e Meditation).
Traditions and ceremonies
Although many folks traditions and practises are often linked to Buddhism in Singapore, it should be noted that these practises and traditions often have nothing to do with Buddhism. As there is still much ignorance among Singaporeans, many people still consider folk traditions as linked with Buddhism, although this idea of Buddhism is gradually disappearing among the locals and local medias are giving increasing attention to the true form of Buddhism in Singapore that focuses on the dharma (teachings) of the Buddha.
Folk practises was traditionally practiced among the folk Chinese. The female form of Avalokiteśvara, Guan Yin, was introduced into Chinese traditions around the 12th century. Especially in Southern China, where Taoist traditions are strong, Buddhist beliefs gradually assimilated Chinese Taoist beliefs, and Guan Yin was frequently venerated as a Taoist deity. Furthermore, the usage of joss sticks, a Taoist practice by origin, were used for religious purposes, even in the case of worshiping a non-Taoist Guan Yin.
Such Buddhist-Taoist syncretism gave many Chinese an impressions that they were of the same religion, among many Chinese Singaporeans. Such practices continued even after the Chinese immigrants came to Singapore. Buddha and Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva (Guan Yin) were thus venerated as gods among the Chinese. However in Buddhism, gods and deities are seen as inferior to Bodhisattvas and the Buddhas, who are enlightened beings.
Especially true for the older generation, many will visit the Buddhist temples to pay homage to their ancestors on an annual basis, a tradition which is part of native Chinese practise.
The Buddhist monks recite mantras and the names of the Buddhas for the deceased and the spirits, that they may receive merit and attain more favorable rebirths in the higher realms or the Amitabha Western Pure Land. The ashes are normally sent to Buddhist temples after cremation to be stored in urns.
Traditions
Both the Mahayana school and the Theravada school, including Tibetan Buddhism have acquired sizeable followings. Monks from Sri Lanka, Thailand and other South-eastern countries have come to teach Buddhism in Singapore.
Buddhism in modern Singapore
In recent years, due to the increasing publication of Buddhist books, the appearance of internet sites in English, the availability of modern Buddhist music as well as courses conducted in English, more and more English-speaking Chinese, especially the younger Singaporeans, are joining Buddhist circles. As a traditional Asian religion, Buddhism seems to be spreading back from the West to Singapore, as many of the Buddhist books are written by Western monks and writers.
Singapore's Buddhist temples and religious circles are highly organised and very often have a connection with foreign religious organisations, especially in China, Taiwan, Thailand, the USA, the UK, Sri Lanka, etc. Many foreign Buddhist associations and temples have also established branches in Singapore to propagate Buddhist teachings and activities. Buddhist temples and associations are spread all over Singapore, ranging from small to large.
The largest Buddhist temple in Singapore, Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery, holds many Buddhist activities such as chanting, meditation, retreats, and Dharma talks, as well as offering Buddhist courses on Dharma and meditation, very often attended by thousands of adherents.
Monasteries, Temples and Organizations
See Category:Singapore for a list of Buddhist monasteries, temples and organizations in Singapore.
