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
Discourse on the 4th Precept
The five precepts will be continued with a ceremony in English on Saturday at 7 o’clock. Maitri and Karuna, as defined by Buddha, embody love that transforms pain and suffering. Love can become sickness through attachment. Vietnamese “Nghia” surpasses passionate love (Tinh) with commitment and depth. Meditation helps distinguish altruism from possessiveness. Avalokiteshvara embodies compassionate listening and mindful speech, guiding us in practicing the four Brahma Viharas: love, compassion, joy, and equanimity. Mindful speech fosters generosity and prevents destructive communication. Reflecting on one’s suffering and practicing mindful communication can alleviate conflicts. Reconciliation, rooted in attentive listening and mindful speech, transcends biases and fosters unity amidst conflicts. Buddhist social workers in wartime Vietnam practiced neutrality and reconciliation, embodying love and compassion despite dangers. True reconciliation requires empathetically understanding and bridging perspectives, calling for profound bravery and compassion. The fifth precept will be discussed later.