Nan Hua is the name of the South African branch for the Humanistic Buddhist order, Fo Guang Shan, who has made it their mission to spread Humanistic Buddhism to all the continents on Earth. Nan Hua acts as the central religious and administrative office for all Fo Guang Shan branches in Africa, which includes temples and centres throughout South Africa, Malawi, Tanzania and Congo.
Nan Hua is located more or less 50km east of Pretoria and 70km East North East of Johannesburg, in Cultura Park, a suburb of Bronkhorstpruit. A very central location to have the temple, being only a stones throw away from Johannesburg International Airport and the administrative facilities provided by major cities but still far enough to maintain a calm and peaceful enviroment outside the high-stress city life.
At the Temple, we have Chinese Dharma Functions and major Buddhist events that are held at our facilities, along with Western and Eastern Retreats.
Being a non-profit charity/religious organization, Nan Hua operates on donations made towards the spreading of Buddhist principles in South Africa and the drive to ease the suffering of people and promote a peaceful, moral life. This donation drive is called Dana, or generosity, and is intrinsic to the 2500-year-old Buddhist tradition.
Since the time of the Buddha the teachings (dharma) was considered priceless and therefore given away freely. In keeping with this spirit, the monks and nuns, as well as the visiting fascilitators at the Temple do not receive any payment for leading retreats even though they give generously of their time, energy and understanding. The Temple's retreat tariff is set to cover running expenses without profit.
Note should be taken that "donation" does not neccessarily mean financially, but could also be in the form of food, clothing or anything helpful that can be spread by our Outreach department to the needy. It could be in the shape of a teaching in first-aid, etc. given for free to the local communities. Anything that can help improve life for those who are most in need of it.
It is Nan Hua's goal to try and become financially self-sufficient.
