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Autumn Retreat - The Recorded Sayings of Linji

Thich Nhat Hanh · November 2, 2003 · New Hamlet, Plum Village, France

Thay reminds us of the need to learn English quickly, and for the monastics to also learn more Vietnamese for communication, as well as to practice chanting in all three languages: English, French, and Vietnamese. There is an intention to have weekly Dharma talks in French when there are enough listeners, but for now, the talks are mainly in English and Vietnamese.

The mind is inherently “luminous,” but it is covered by afflictions. We need bavana (“to sow and cultivate”) as we care for a garden: plowing, fertilizing, watering so that wholesome seeds can sprout. The method of practice is to “tame” the mind with mindfulness – the “reins” such as mindful breathing (anapana) and mindful steps – to train the wild horse of the mind, and return to take refuge in the “island within” (attadipa sarana). Mindful breathing is not just natural breathing, but is the “torch of the self,” helping body and mind to be in harmony, to dwell in the present moment, and to encounter the Buddha in every moment.

Previous Talk October 30, 2003

48m