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Cherishing Our Good Fortune

Thich Nhat Hanh · March 15, 2011 · Plum Village, France
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Lien Tri Temple in Hong Kong will be transformed into the base of the Asian Institute of Applied Buddhism, beginning with 30 monastics (20 sisters, 10 brothers) and aiming for a community of 125. The Institute will offer a Master of Applied Buddhism program lasting 1.5 to 2 years, intended for young people who have graduated from university. Students must reside at the Institute, not only to listen to theoretical teachings but also to practice deeply with the Sangha: growing vegetables, cleaning, sitting meditation, and walking meditation every day. Unlike universities that only teach theory, the Master of Applied Buddhism degree carries the weight of genuine practice, and is expected to attract students from Oxford, Harvard, and may expand to Germany and France.

The core value of the Institute lies in a stable, happy residential Sangha—like a peach (the practice) placed on a tray, which is the external means. From health retreats to “lazy days”—times of rest to nourish the soul—all are aimed at stopping, living slowly, listening deeply to the present moment, learning from the Buddha, who also spent several weeks resting under the Bodhi tree after his enlightenment. Young monastics and lay friends at Vô Ưu, Bích Nham, Deer Park, Magnolia Grove… bring fresh energy, and are a source of salvation for the suffering young generation if we know how to cherish and nurture them.

  • Highlights of the Asian Institute of Applied Buddhism
    • 30 monastics to start, aiming for 125
    • 1.5–2 year Master’s program, residential, combining theory and practice
    • Year-round communal activities: growing vegetables, cleaning, sitting and walking meditation
    • Expansion to Germany, France, expected to attract students from prestigious universities
  • The Art of Being Lazy
    • A day without schedule—a spring gift for nourishment and healing
    • Practice of stopping, living slowly, fully enjoying happiness in the present moment
    • Learning from the story of the Buddha resting under the Bodhi tree after enlightenment
  • Deep purification value
    • Precepts and mindfulness trainings purify body and mind after 6–12 months
    • Body and mind become noble, radiating a saintly quality like an angel
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The Four Elements of Purification

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Mental Formations