The progress of DNA research may offer a perspective to look at the positive contribution of Tai Ji Men to society.
by Linda Chen*
*A paper presented at the CESNUR 2024 international conference, Université Bordeaux Montaigne, Bordeaux, France, June 12, 2024.
I have had the distinct honor of being a Tai Ji Men (TJM) dizi (disciple) since 1995, shortly before immigrating to Canada. For nearly three decades, TJM Qigong practice and meditation have been a cornerstone of my life. The Eastern traditions and wisdom imparted by my Shifu, Dr. Hong Tao-Tze, the Zhang-men-ren of TJM, have profoundly impacted my overall well-being, fostering both physical health and personal growth through self-cultivation and introspection. Our TJM dizi come from diverse backgrounds and reside in various corners of the globe. Personally, I currently serve as a postdoctoral research associate in the medical field at Dalhousie University on Canada’s East Coast.
Today, I am thrilled to be here at the CESNUR Conference to explore the vital role minority religions play in shaping a better future. My focus will be on TJM, a spiritual and cultural group that falls under the umbrella of minority religious and spiritual movements. Dr. Massimo Introvigne’s insightful presentation on the TJM case earlier today provided a valuable foundation. While our esteemed panel will delve deeper into various aspects of TJM, I will specifically highlight how TJM’s core values and initiatives resonate with the conference theme of “The Contribution of Minority Religions to Society.”
As a biomedical scientist with a background in pathology and molecular genetics, I have always been captivated by the human body’s intricate workings. Early in my graduate studies, the Human Genome Project captured my imagination. This multinational effort aimed to sequence the entire human genome, comprised of roughly three billion base pairs of DNA, culminated in 2003 after a 13-year journey. With the massive data in hand, scientists initially identified only around 2% of the genome as directly coding for proteins, the seemingly
“useful” part. The remaining 98% of non-coding DNA was often dismissed as “junk DNA” by many researchers for years to come. However, scientific understanding has significantly evolved in the past two decades. Recent breakthroughs reveal a substantial portion of this so-called “junk” DNA actually plays a crucial role in regulating, both in health and disease states. This pursuit of truth, like the reevaluation of DNA, underscores the importance of open-mindedness in uncovering hidden potential.
We live in a fascinatingly paradoxical era. Rapid technological advancements coexist with escalating conflicts. From a purely scientific perspective, life continues through transmission of genetic materials. But surely, human existence encompasses more. As a global citizen, I believe true flourishing lies in living peacefully with ourselves, others, and the environment. This begs the question: How can we, as individuals, contribute to global harmony, especially during challenging times?
A personal experience solidified this belief. For nearly 30 years, I have been a disciple of Dr. Hong Tao-Tze, the Grand Master of TJM. His speech at the 2000 UN NGO Assembly deeply resonated with me. Entitled “Global Solidarity: The Way to Peace and International Cooperation,” it emphasized the power of wisdom and culture to bridge communication gaps and foster peace. Dr. Hong, as an heir to an ancient culture, highlighted: “Facing a world full of disputes, I firmly believe that ‘wisdom’ is the sharpest weapon to turn war into peace. And ‘culture,’ the crystallization of our ancestors’ wisdom, is the foundation… In this new century, international relationships should be built on peace. Culture serves as a bridge of communication. This way, people will exchange views harmoniously… It is also protection for human rights, propelling human beings to advance.”
Words require action. Similar to how DNA adapts to environmental pressures, human societies constantly evolve. TJM culture promotes balance and oneness, highlighting the interconnectedness of individual, family, and societal well-being, reflecting the concept of “the common good.” The TJM Qigong Academy exemplifies this by promoting traditional TJM culture/values, aiming to enhance the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of humanity globally. With an over 6,000-year tradition passed down through generations, TJM teachings offer invaluable life lessons, ethical values, and responsible interaction with our planet/environment. These are essential for all global citizens and contribute to a more enriched and enlightened society.
However, the path for minority religions is often fraught with challenges. For nearly 28 years, TJM faced injustice in the legal and tax system and bureaucratic hurdles in Taiwan. They believe a just society is essential for peace and progress, advocating for a more equitable society through social justice and tax reform initiatives. Despite facing human rights persecution from those in power, Tai Ji Men has refrained from violence and instead utilized peaceful means to actively promote a culture of love and conscience. Through this approach, they have established a successful global social movement, transforming a crisis into an opportunity for positive change. Ultimately, they hope to end corruption and build a true democracy in Taiwan. This experience highlights the challenges faced by minority religions and the need for global solidarity in defending religious freedom for all.
Just as stress in biology can lead to adaptations, societal stress can lead to damage followed by repair efforts. Conscience and wisdom serve as the tool for repair, prompting new approaches. For TJM, this manifested in the 2014 International An Era of Conscience Movement, which ultimately led to the UN proclaiming April 5th as the International Day of Conscience in 2019. This movement emphasizes the importance of conscience awakening, a core value often neglected in today’s fast-paced world. In times of uncertainty, spiritual groups like TJM offer invaluable contributions to global stability. A society guided by conscience fosters ethical behavior, compassion, and a collective responsibility for the betterment of humanity.
In conclusion, unwavering scientific inquiry unlocks the secrets of once-called “junk DNA.” Similarly, relentless pursuit of truth, alongside faith, can unlock the potential of minority religions. Dr. Hong reminds us that conscience is the universal code for harmonizing humanity, heaven, and earth. Tai Ji Men, like many others, offers solutions humanity desperately seeks— solutions already woven into the fabric of our universe.
We stand at a critical juncture. Pandemics, wars, and escalating natural disasters demand we shed complacency, expose falsehoods, and amplify the voices of conscience, wisdom, and love. Preserving and transmitting the rich tapestry of TJM culture is vital for enriching future generations. Let us embrace hope, set good intentions, and take action together, following Dr. Hong’s call to action in the Power of Hope movement (2022).
I would like to end my talk with a quote from Mahatma Gandhi, an exemplary leader I deeply admire. He once said, “Devotion to Truth is the sole justification for our existence.” Together, we can create a world where all cultures and belief systems are respected, where justice prevails, and where humanity thrives in harmony with the planet.