An Introduction to Buddhist Group Work

抄録

This paper deals with how to conduct group work based on faith in Buddha (Amitabha) which aims at the development and improvement of one's character. The members of groups formed for the accomplishment of this aim are helped to have a profound awareness of themselves as human beings through their interaction. Aid is provided by Buddhist priests with are conducted by making the most of group dynamics, the members' innate Buddhahood is stimulated and they are led to embrace faith in Buddha, deepen their religeious faith, cultivate their character and live immaculate lives. This paper aims at giving a systematic and concrete description of group work for this purpose. In Buddhist group work carried out with the support of Buddhist priests, that is, experts in Buddhism, importance is placed on helping the participants with the cultivation of their mind oand the solution of poblems related to their lives. I am convinced that such activeties will eventually contribute to the religious edification of people and the spread of more constructive and practical Buddhism. This paper is identical with the one read at the 18th Symposium of the Association for the Advancement of Social Work with Groups, Inc., an international professional organization.