Receiving Buddha Shakyamuni’s and Master Xuyun’s Sharira

Jin-Chuan Shi and Jin-Wei Shi receive VM Xuyun’s sharira from Madalena Tam.

On November 10, 2024, Madalena Tam, a senior disciple of Master Hua, offered the sharira (relics) of Buddha Shakyamuni and Venerable Master Xuyun to Redwood Vihara.

Madalena’s journey in the Dharma began in Hong Kong when she was very young. At age eleven, she took refuge and made a vow to dedicate her life to supporting Master Hua’s teachings. Years later, after coming to the United States for college, she and her sister established the Buddhist Lecture Hall in San Francisco. It was through their efforts that Master Hua was invited to America in 1962, planting the seeds for the flourishing of Buddhism in the West. She has witnessed DRBA’s growth from its inception, standing as a bridge between generations.

Master Hua entrusted her with Master Xuyun’s relics when he first arrived in America in 1962. (Her sharing on November 10 can be viewed here.) These relics, pearl-like remains found in the ashes of cultivated beings, are regarded as physical manifestations of their spiritual realizations. They inspire faith that sincere practice transforms not just the mind but even the body.

At Redwood Vihara, these relics serve as a connection to our roots and lineage. Just as young redwoods sprout from the ancient roots of fallen giants, we draw inspiration from the Buddha Shakyamuni and Master Xuyun, whose life and teachings guide us as on the spiritual path. The Dharma has been transmitted across generations—from the Buddha’s awakening over 2,500 years ago, to Master Xuyun’s revival of Buddhism in China, to Master Hua receiving the transmission of the Weiyang lineage from Master Xuyun. Redwood Vihara itself exists because of the dedication of countless practitioners who paved the way, not just providing a place to practice, but an entire way of life, a field of noble friendship supporting awakening.

With deep gratitude, we receive this sacred offering.