The welfare state system is thought to address the social imbalances caused by capitalism. However, facing the plight of an aging population and declining birthrate, people have come to realize that the welfare system of the past in the context of demographic dividend and continuous economic expansion is unsustainable. The spirit of service advocated by Humanistic Buddhism can be a model for consideration in relieving the plight of welfare states. Humanistic Buddhism does not abandon all worldly dharmas, as a bodhisattva is the volunteer of all beings, and volunteers are the bodhisattvas of this world. The Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) is an organization that embodies the practices of the bodhisattva way and an association that walks the Buddha’s ways. Namely, one can cultivate and practice the bodhisattva way as a volunteer in the real world. Accordingly, Humanistic Buddhism has promulgated “from forests into society, from the monastery into homes, from the monastic community to devotees, and, from sermon to serving others.” Furthermore, devotees can become bodhisattvas that serve all beings. Through actively serving others and society, volunteers cultivate themselves and develop Humanistic Buddhism, as well as establish a pure land on earth.
