Purpose and Projects of Bukkyō Dendō Kyōkai
Bukkyō Dendō Kyōkai (BDK―Society for the Promotion of Buddhism) was established in December, 1965 by the late Rev. Dr. Yehan Numata, the founder of Mitutoyo Corporation, and his Dharma friends. BDK’s purpose is to promote a modern understanding of Buddhist spirit, the cultural exchange of Buddhism nationally and internationally, and to realize world peace. BDK is continually involved in various activities; 1) Distribution of “The Teaching of Buddha” to major hotel rooms and public facilities such as hospitals, prisons, and libraries throughout the world, 2) English translation of Tripitaka (Chinese Buddhist Canon) and its publication, 3) Establishment of the Numata Program in Buddhist Studies at major world universities, 4) Encouragement and support of overseas students who wish to study Buddhism in Japan, 5) Research, study and support of Buddhist history, 6) Expansion of BDK cooperates, 7) Presentation of Cultural Awards for the Promotion of Buddhism, 8) Holding the BDK Buddhist Missionary Seminar, 9) Modernization of Buddhist music and its popularization, 10) Holding Buddhist lectures and seminars about “The Teaching of Buddha,” and, 11) Support for religious educational facilities for kindergarten / preschool, and other schools.