Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) is closely associated with Fo Guang Shan in that it takes much of its direction from the order. Initially formed in Taiwan on February 3, 1991 in response to the needs of local lay Buddhist practitioners, the BLIA Taiwan gradually gained recognition overseas.

Subsequently, “Buddha’s Light International Association” was officially inaugurated in Los Angeles, California on May 16, 1992 during which a new chapter in Buddhist history emerged. As Buddhist delegates from Europe, America, Asia, Africa, and Australia rendered their support by attending the first BLIA General Conference, Venerable Master Hsing Yun commemorated the unprecedented event with the following verses: “My compassionate vow is to save sentient beings; My body is that of the Dharma ocean that binds no boats; Ask me what have I achieved in this lifetime? May the Buddha’s Light shine over the five continents.”