We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track. If this problem persists help us by reporting it so we can investigate it.
Watch this talk
Login or create a free account to watch this talk and discover other teachings from Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh.
Log in or create an account
China Tour
Promoting Buddhist culture and doing good deeds are universal actions that help reduce war, conflict, and poverty. Standing before the Sangha feels like a return home, despite thirty-six years of exile caused by war, which felt like being a cell separated from the body. Chinese Buddhism serves as a spiritual treasure and source of nourishment, and renewing these teachings to suit the modern mind and younger generation is essential for contributing to world peace and making people happy.
Practices introduced to the West focus on going back to the present moment rather than dwelling in past regrets or future worries. Upon hearing the bell, thinking and talking stop to allow a return to the in-breath and out-breath, overcoming affliction. Similarly, the telephone is answered only after three sounds, using the ringing as a reminder to breathe. Prostrations are acts of devotion, mindfulness, and concentration, while maintaining precepts and manners generates an energy that makes one a beautiful person.
Great compassion and wisdom are perfect and do not take sides. On Wutai Mountain, yellow flowers cover the landscape like golden sand, representing Manjushri. Scientifically, looking into one cell reveals the totality of all cells, just as a new ear of corn manifests hundreds of grains that contain the plant’s history. One must not be attached to images, such as Samantabhadra riding a white elephant, but rather look deeply to see the Buddha in disciples like Shariputra. This is akin to seeing the first flame in the second and third flames, recognizing that the Buddha is alive within.
