【Daren Gubai】—Experience the wonderful state of mind of “harmony between heaven, earth, and humanity”
The Daren Gubai Ceremony, based on the principle of “Human is Paramount,” is a cultural ceremony that honors people and ancestors, and promotes harmony between Heaven and Earth. It helps people express their longing for and respect for their relatives in the most peaceful and respectful manner within the solemn and sacred hall of humanity. The Daren Gubai Ceremony is open to all races, births, ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, and political stances, helping to express the respect, love, and inclusiveness inherent in all humanity for life.
At noon on 18 April 2026, the entire venue welcomed an important part of the fourth “Daren Culture” event – the “Daren Gubai” ceremony. Continuing the tradition of previous years, each participant was invited to calm their mind and feel the connection between “heaven, earth, and humanity” in a solemn atmosphere.
Many participants shared their feelings: some felt a sense of solemnity and holiness when the music played; some felt refreshed and relaxed when they smelled the aroma of tea during the tea ceremony; some felt a surge of indescribable warmth when they thought of their loved ones while enjoying the tea snacks; and some felt their bodies and minds warm, as if a warm current was flowing through their bodies, making them feel calm and peaceful.
The “Daren Gubai” is not only a ritual, but also an experience that touches and purifies the soul. Some participants shed tears during the ceremony, feeling a sacred and profound emotion, as if enveloped and protected by a warm power, experiencing a long-lost sense of peace and a feeling of coming home.
Several touching moments occurred during the ceremony. An elderly person missed the ceremony due to a delay in their journey, and their face showed regret. A volunteer smiled and said, “It’s alright, there will be another one next year. Just come earlier next year.” Two ladies, moved by the atmosphere of the ceremony, wanted to enter the venue immediately to participate, but upon hearing from the volunteer that the ceremony was in progress and full, they had to give up. The volunteer told them that by paying attention, they could also gain insight from the ceremony. For the rest of the ceremony, the two ladies watched the participants’ actions with utmost devotion, even quietly chanting and mimicking their movements.
A Chinese gentleman, a first-time participant in the “Daren Culture” event, was delighted to attend the event. He learned that the core of the ceremony is to embody harmony between heaven, earth, and humanity; it is to demonstrate respect for people, ancestors, and the universe; it is a solemn ceremony that blends traditional and Eastern cultures. He said, “Many traditions are being lost, and society is in chaos. This ceremony of honoring humanity is excellent; society needs it.”
An elderly couple from China were very eager to attend the “Gubai Ceremony” at the Gubai stall, fearing they might miss it. The ceremony hadn’t started yet, and volunteers suggested they go to lunch first. The elderly woman, hearing the sounds of setup outside, rushed back without finishing her meal, afraid of missing any details. Ultimately, the couple managed to stand at the front of the Gubai queue and participate attentively throughout the entire ceremony.
At the ceremony, both those directly involved and those observing were deeply moved by the solemnity and sanctity of Gubai. This unique experience is difficult to describe in words; those present could feel it more acutely.
This ceremony is not only a way to express longing for loved ones, but also a homecoming for the soul; this connection that transcends geographical boundaries and identities has become an eternal warm current in the hearts of the participants, allowing the beauty of Daren to continue to take root and sprout in every ordinary day.
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