The Originator of GNH: the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck

01.

The benevolent monarch of Bhutan, a contemporary Bodhisattva king

Establishing a Noble Democratic Temperament

National Day of 17th December 2005 was a day the people of Bhutan will never forget.

In a remote village in Bhutan, 900 km away from the capital, Thimphu, the fourth king, His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuck, delivered a speech to more than 8000 people on National Day. The King suddenly announced that he was going to abdicate his throne and 25-year-old Crown Prince Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck would be his successor as King in 2008. The first congress election would also take place in Bhutan that same year.

His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuch, who was deeply loved by his people, was only 50 at that time. His dynasty was at its peak. Once the news about his sudden abdication spread, the whole of Bhutan was in shock. Many people cried in panic and went to the temple to pray for the King. The media commented that the King’s sudden decision confused the public. The people of Bhutan really didn’t want this historical and dramatic decision to come so soon.

“The best time to change the political system is when the nation is stable and peaceful. Why should we coronate an heir during a revolution or when the former king passes away? The best time for my retirement is now!” His Majesty Jigme Singy Wanchuch’s selflessness taught the people of Bhutan a valuable lesson on how they should regard democracy as well as instilled a noble and peaceful process of democratization in Bhutan for the world to see.

The Source of Gross National Happiness

In 1972, at the age of 16, His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuch succeeded to the throne after the previous king had suddenly passed away, becoming the youngest king in the world. But he did not immediately ascend to the throne. He instead spent two years traveling the country to understand what the people of Bhutan wanted. He had witnessed the wars, pollution, high unemployment rate and high crime rate of western civilizations during the modernization of those countries. People’s income increased, but they weren’t happy. They experienced joy from improvement of material possessions in their lives, but drifted apart from their families as a consequence.

“Is it really right to make economic development a priority?” With that question in mind, His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuch returned to Bhutan thinking about what his people needed. In the face of his father’s death and the burden of his county’s future, the young, 16-year-old king did not retreat from concern. He went to each corner of Bhutan to assess the living conditions of his people in order to understand what the people truly wanted. His experiences were similar to the Fifty-Three Visits of Sudhana in Avatamsaka Sutra. The people of Bhutan were his teachers. During each visit, no matter in urban area or countryside, he saw the deepest desires of the people of Bhutan ?happiness ?and realized the leader of a country should pursue the goal of instilling overall happiness in his people rather than helping them reach material satisfaction.

In 1974, the global trend was to make improving the economy a priority for national development and to use GDP as the standard measurement of the success of a nation. His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuch, however, chose a different path, making Gross National Happiness the fundamental policy of the nation. It covered four major aspects, equitable and sustainable socio-economic development, conservation of ecosystems, promotion of culture and basic human values, and good governance. He sought overall happiness for his people, turning Bhutan into the first country in the world that was “founded upon happiness”.

With over 30 years of governance under His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuch, Bhutan became the first country in the world where all citizens received free education and medical care. The average lifespan of the population increased by 19 years and the rate of elementary school enrollment reached 97%. Happiness in Bhutan was not achieved through luck. Instead, it was the result of the leadership of this Bodhisattva, the King; his love for his people, wise choices, and endless action advanced the country and encouraged the nation under his authority.

Bodhisattva King Established a Pure Land of Happiness

The beautiful ripple of happiness extended from Bhutan to the world. In 2005, His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuch and the Bhutanese people won the first Champion of the Earth Award from the UN in honor of their dedication to environmental protection. To protect the environment, the constitution of Bhutan stipulates that the percentage of forest coverage must not decrease to below 60%. In 2005, the percentage of forest coverage in Bhutan was 74%. The former Prime Minister of Bhutan, Dr. Kinzang Dorji, told me that this year (2017), the percentage of forest coverage in Bhutan reached almost 80%. Assuming that there is one tree every three square meters, Bhutan is providing more than 3 billion trees to generate fresh air to the world. Furthermore, by using run-off-river hydroelectric power rather than building a dam, Bhutan can share its water resources with other countries. In 2011, the UN passed Bhutan’s proposal of including “happiness” as the ninth item of Millennium Development Goals for members of the UN, encouraging people to work toward, look forward to, and take responsibility for the cultivation of national happiness. This proposal also gives people the chance to benefit from sustainable development, coexistence, and mutual prosperity.

I condense Buddha’s six paramitas into two core points: “Awaking all beings and embellishing Buddha-lands.” Bhutan’s pursuit for happiness spreads positive thinking on Earth, helping people to develop self-awareness and conscience. Bhutan’s care and practice of environmental protection provides fresh air and clean water for the Earth, helping the world become more pure and as such, Bhutan can be regarded as a kingdom of Bodhisattvas founded under the leadership of the contemporary Bodhisattva King, His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuch.

Because the lives of modern humans are closely intertwined with the economy, I proposed the “Bodhisattva Economics” in the 1980s with the aim of cultivating enlightenment to the future economic development for mankind. The Gross National Happiness index constructed by His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuch not only contains the spirit of cherishing blessing and self-discipline in original Buddhism, but also includes the core value of compassion and wisdom in Bodhisattva Economics. Inspired by that, I proposed GEH, Gross Earth Happiness, in 2013, with the hope that the happiness that enriches Bhutan will spread across each country on Earth, expanding ‘National Happiness’ to ‘Earth Happiness’.

Nominee of the Nobel Peace Prize

In 2014, I started promoting His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuck a nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize. In the recommendation statement I stated, “More than 40 years ago, a dream of a 16-year-old King changed the direction of human development. A revolution of the heart guides economic development toward the axis of human happiness, turning political thinking into the pursuit of people’s utmost happiness. A revolution of happiness in the world is happening.”

Greed is the source of constant conflict in the world and it makes peace an unachievable goal. Water and air pollution, and a chaotic land are evidences of greed. Numerous human disasters and wars in the history of mankind are closely linked to economic politics. Economy with happiness is a way of creating peace on Earth. GNH changes a human’s value by replacing endless greed with the responsibility of self-discipline, sustainability and equal development. This is the difference between humans and animals, which live instinctually. This is also the value of being human.

Economics of happiness proposed by His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuck is a beacon of light in the future of mankind, and is capable of developing and directing the world toward the path of sustainable happiness. Here, we sincerely recommend His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuck as a nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize in the hope that the precious thought of GNH (the economics of happiness) envisioned in Bhutan can change the value of humans and create a peaceful and sustainable Earth of happiness.

It is only when a human builds a great dream and depicts the dream of the future through his/her wisdom that the future of the world is hopeful. I want this dream of a beautiful Earth to become a reality.

1.the Earth of Mindfulness

First, the Earth of Mindfulness: Using human culture and compassion, we need to elevate the spiritual level of mankind to make the earth a connected body of mindfulness, the best there is in the universe.

2.The Earth of Pureland

Second, the Earth of Pure Land: Rather than simply consuming the five resources, solids, liquids, air, energy and space, we need to conduct research to improve the use of sustainable resources. Furthermore, we need to harmonize and purify them so that our world can become one wholesome mandala.

3.The Earth of the Universe

Third, the Earth of the Universe: Upon entering the age of space exploration, humans might make contact with other beings in the universe. We must start thinking how we can prevent conflict and danger when entering this era and work toward an age of cosmic prosperity.

Never Forget the Very Beginning Mind of Happiness

Happiness in Bhutan did not emerge through luck. From the founding to the uniting of the nation, from isolation to openness, Bhutan has suffered through civil wars and foreign invasions. The happiness of Bhutan is the result of the efforts and struggles of successive kings from founding father Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to King Wangchuck. Bhutan still faced the threat of militants in the south even by the end of 20th century. After negotiating in vain for many years and even after being severely warned by military experts, against all opposition, His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuch personally led the military operation and fought with amazing courage and wisdom and achieved victory. However, His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuch ultimately knew there was no winner in battle. Bhutan did not celebrate the victory. Instead, Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the eldest Queen Mother, the first wife of His Majesty Jigme Singy Wangchuch, established 108 memorial chortens or stupas known as the ”Druk Wangyal Chortens” to thank Buddha for protecting the King so he could return from battle safely and to pray for the deceased and wounded Bhutanese and militant soldiers. This kind of merciful mind and fearless courage is indeed the source of happiness.

The Pure Land Where Padmasambhava Manifested

Bhutan is where Padmasambhava manifested and is subsequently known as the pure land of Padmasambhava. In 1995, I finished the book biography of Padmasambhava, which is the most complete work in history about Padmasambhava. My unbreakable bond with Bhutan seemed to be planned by Padmasambhava. In 2014, when I visited the National Library of Bhutan, I saw the familiar collection of empowerment figures of Rinchin Terzer, the Treasury of Precious Termas. This is the very set of books for which I received authorization to use the inscription of “Rinchin Terzer” from Derge Parkhang, Tibet. In 2006, I paid a fortune to print the first global limited edition by Buddhall, Taiwan. I was pleased to see that this book was being kept by the National Library of Bhutan and was amazed by this wonderful connection with Padmasambhava.

I visited Bhutan’s major holy site Tiger’s Nest Temple three times. During each visit, I saw a clear vision of Guru Dorje Drolo, a manifestation of Padmasambhava, in the sky. In 2011 I painted a 10-meter large portrait of Guru Dorje Drolo. In my visit to Bhutan this year (2017), I plan to “display Great Buddha portraits” including this Guru Dorje Drolo painting, a 25-meter portrait of Great Buddha of Yungang Grottoes, and a portion of the 165-meter long Great Buddha portrait.

Author’s Preface

From "Gross National Happiness" to "Gross Earth Happiness"

In July 2011, the United Nations officially adopted Bhutan's proposal to incorporate "happiness" into the objectives of human development for the millennium. This small yet globally recognized nation courageously presented a blueprint for human happiness within the halls of the United Nations. In fact, as early as 1974, amid the global trend where nations prioritized Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as the standard and emphasized economic development, His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, opted for a different approach as the core policy for his nation's development. In contrast to the majority of countries worldwide, which solely prioritize economic development as the measure of national progress, he introduced the concept of "Gross National Happiness" (GNH), with a focus on four primary dimensions: "socio-economic," "cultural heritage," "environmental conservation," and "good governance." This comprehensive approach aimed at promoting the overall happiness of the population, positioning Bhutan as the world's pioneering "happiness-oriented nation."

His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck's GNH concept, advocating responsible self-restraint and sustainable equitable development over endless greed and growth, has reshaped humanity's values and contributed to progress towards sustainable happiness worldwide. Consequently, in 2014, I spearheaded the nomination of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck as a candidate for the Nobel Peace Prize, envisioning that the invaluable concept of GNH (Gross National Happiness) originating from Bhutan could foster a shift in human values and pave the way for a peaceful and sustainably happy Earth.

The key figure in promoting the Bhutanese GNH concept to the world is the first democratically elected Prime Minister of Bhutan, His Excellency Jigme Thinley. Carrying forward the ideals of His Majesty Wangchuck's Gross National Happiness, Prime Minister Jigme Thinley vigorously advocated for GNH as a significant reference for countries' development indices within the United Nations. In July 2011, the United Nations formally adopted the inclusion of "happiness" in the goals of human development for the millennium. On April 2, 2012, Prime Minister Jigme Thinley of Bhutan, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York during the summit on "Wellbeing and Happiness: Defining a New Economic Paradigm," delivered a speech officially incorporating Gross National Happiness as a primary development indicator. Bhutan became the first and only country globally to prioritize Gross National Happiness over Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as the primary development indicator.

The GNH concept brings new inspiration to human development: the goal of human development should not only be about ending hunger and poverty but also actively creating happiness for individuals and communities comprehensive development that balances material and spiritual, individual and collective well-being.

To ensure the sustainable development of Gross National Happiness as a guiding principle for national happiness, Prime Minister Jigme Thinley tirelessly shared the Bhutanese GNH concept at the United Nations and in countries around the world, akin to a "happiness missionary." The essence of his speeches, compiled and published globally for the first time, is encapsulated in the book "Happiness: A Shared Global Vision" (by JIGMI Y. THINLEY), co-published by the BuddhAll Culture under my guidance. This book received endorsements from former Vice President of the Republic of China, Mr. Vincent Siew, and renowned Japanese entrepreneur Mr. Kazuo Inamori. Dozens of social and business leaders jointly promoted the "Happiness, Earth's Heart Movement," each contributing their thoughts on "What is happiness?"

The introduction I wrote for this book is titled "GEH, Gross Earth Happiness." I believe that Bhutan's Gross National Happiness concept is not only relevant to Bhutan but also serves as an important reference for every country and the entire world to pursue happiness and well-being.

Inspired by Bhutan's GNH ideology, "happiness" has surfaced as a significant and emerging topic in political and economic discussions, prompting various regions and countries to propose methodologies for assessing well-being. Echoes of Bhutan's GNH ideology are evident in initiatives such as the "World Happiness Report," championed by the United Nations, and the "Better Life Index," crafted by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

The "World Happiness Report" stands as an online survey publication by the United Nations, aimed at assessing happiness within the framework of sustainable development endeavors. Officially unveiled on April 1, 2012, the inaugural World Happiness Report marked a milestone as the premier international survey centered on happiness, capturing the global spotlight. Delving into the roots of happiness and adversity across nations, the report scrutinizes the ramifications of governmental policies, incorporating insightful case studies from nations like Bhutan. Esteemed scholars spanning economics, psychology, survey research, and national statistics collaborate on the report, elucidating methodologies for gauging happiness.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has pioneered the world's inaugural transnational happiness indicator system known as the "Better Life Index." Encompassing two primary dimensions?"quality of life," which includes parameters such as health status, work-life balance, education and skills, social connections, civic engagement and government governance, environmental quality, personal safety, and subjective well-being, and "material conditions," which cover aspects like income and wealth, employment and wages, and housinghe index comprises a comprehensive spectrum of 11 indicator categories. By delineating the essence and structure of a "better life," this index articulates tangible aspirations for countries to pursue in the future.

Amidst the prolonged emphasis on economic development as the primary objective, the profound effects of highly developed economies have led to global warning signs such as greenhouse gas emissions, extreme weather events, droughts, forest fires, floods, and blizzards, resembling warning signals from Mother Earth. Originating from Bhutan's GNH ideology, there is potential to change human values, promoting sustainability and self-restraint in pursuit of both personal and national well-being.

Within this conceptual framework, my focus expands to encompass the happiness of the entire Earth and all its inhabitants. This concept embraces both the universality and individuality of Earth, providing a holistic and profound perspective on happiness that spans both broad-scale and micro-scale aspects, radiating happiness across the cosmos of the future. Therefore, I delineate a beautiful vision for our mother Earth across seven different facets:

1.Earth of Civilization: Honor and nurture the cultural heritage of all nations and regions, breaking down cultural barriers and biases, envisioning a unified world.

2.Earth of Happiness:Cultivate personal and collective happiness by nurturing shared aspirations, fostering a global habitat where humanity collaborates to cultivate happiness for all.

3.Earth of Peace: Foster deep compassion and wisdom to resolve conflicts among diverse ethnicities, cities, and nations, eradicating hatred and warfare.

4.Earth of Enlightenment:Utilize the essence of diverse human cultures to catalyze profound spiritual awakening for all humanity, collectively advancing towards universal enlightenment and happiness.

5.Earth of Completeness: Ensure the sustainable advancement of Earth's environmental ecology, enabling humanity to flourish within a complete Earth and establish a sustainable civilization.

6.Earth of the Heart: Reconnect with the profound essence of the Earth, acknowledging the harmony and interconnectedness among Earth, humanity, and all life forms with wisdom and compassion, thereby shaping a radiant future for our planet.

7.Earth of the Universe: Empower the enlightened Earth to contribute to the evolution of a conscious universe, nurturing a luminous cosmic civilization.

The book "GEH, Gross Earth Happiness" comprises three of my writings: 1. the preface I authored for chinese edition of " 11-11-11: a tribute to His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck" a biography of Bhutan's Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck; 2. the introduction I penned for chinese edition of "Happiness: A Shared Global Vision", authored by Prime Minister Jigmi Y. Thinley; and 3. the preface I contributed to chinese edition of "BHUTAN- The Roar of the Thunder Dragon," offering a historical perspective on Bhutan. Together, these writings illuminate the origins and development of Bhutan's GNH ideology.

Additionally, the book features excerpts from my work "The Way of the Earth Entrepreneur," focusing on interconnected concepts like "Bodhisattva Economics" and "Earth Entrepreneurship." In the appendix, various scholars and entrepreneurs provide insights on the question "Happiness: A Shared Global Vision" as of 2013.

The GNH ideology of Bhutan acts as a catalyst for happiness, challenging the dominant paradigm of economic development as the sole metric of progress and prompting individuals to reassess the true essence of happiness in life. It calls upon governments to integrate happiness into policy planning. Moving ahead, there is anticipation that alongside national happiness indices, a collective "Gross Earth Happiness" index could emerge, enhancing the overall well-being of humanity and nurturing a more harmonious cosmic civilization within the galaxy!

Contents

Author Preface:From "Gross National Happiness" to "Gross Earth Happiness"
Chapter 1.
The Originator of GNH: the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck
01. The benevolent monarch of Bhutan, a contemporary Bodhisattva king
02. Happiness Economics & Peace on Earth: Nomination of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck as a Nobel Peace Prize Candidate

Chapter 2. From GNH to GEH
01. A Brave Man for the Happiness of the World
02. Gross Earth Happiness (GEH)

Chapter 3. Creating the History of Happiness

Chapter 4. Bodhisattva Economics and Happiness Economics
01. The New Meaning of Bodhisattva Economics
02. The Buddhist Economic Thought
03. The role of Merchant Leader in Buddhism
04. Bodhisattva Business Leader and the Social Responsibilities of Entrepreneurs
05. The Modern Spirit of Bodhisattva Entrepreneurship? The Five Driving Forces
06. Outstanding Futuristic Entrepreneurs
07. Economics in the Space Era

Chapter 5 the Way of the Earth Entrepreneurs
01. Earth Happiness Trilogy
02. Living a Life of Happiness with the Fulfillment of 6Qs
03. “Survival of the Fittest” and “Coopetition Optimization”
04. Education of Leadership-Superior Management Model of Core Personnel
05. Mutual Positivity-The Power of Right Mindfulness
06. Success Is the Full Process of Life, Not a Destination
07. The Spirit of “There Is A Person”

Appendix
01. Adding Happiness Worldwide Vincent Siew
02. Thankfulness is Foundation of Happiness Inamori Kazuo
03. What’s Happiness? Wang, Jin-Pyng, et al.
04. From ”GNH” to ”GEH”

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