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
Divining the Tale of Kieu at the Beginning of the Year of the Ox (Part 2)
During the Kiều divination session at Plum Village Dharma Hall, the community practiced mindfulness with each step, following the breath, inviting the bell, and silently making a wish for a verse from the poet Nguyễn Du. Each person brought forth questions about life in the Living Together Sangha, from the responsibilities of caretaking, harmony within the sangha, to relationships inside and outside the community, and even the great transitions in their own lives in recent years.
The verses drawn were then chanted, after which Thầy and those knowledgeable in the literature of The Tale of Kiều illuminated them in the spirit of Buddhism:
• “Intelligence is a gift from Heaven, yet in the way of truth, there is both self and other” – speaking of communication and wisdom, and the shared responsibility in the truth.
• “Vast and boundless on all sides, bowing my head in gratitude for profound kindness across a thousand distances” – expressing humility before the deep gratitude owed to the Sangha, monks, nuns, and lay practitioners.
• “Suddenly awakened from a dream at dawn…” – awakening from illusion, recognizing the inner light.
• “To love so that love is complete, use skillful means to open the path of reverence for life” – using skillful means to protect life.
• “Deep affection seeks to be repaid, full of meaning, can one find a true companion even for a day?” – repaying deep gratitude and building a community of spiritual friends.
• Verse number 68: “Entrusting oneself to the cloud hermitage, listening attentively to the bell echoing through mountains and rivers” – dwelling peacefully in the place of practice, respectfully listening to the land and rivers.
The Kiều divination session was not only a literary overview but also offered practical guidance for practice, helping each practitioner to understand themselves, cultivate compassion, and build the spirit of co-practice, so as to walk steadily on the path of Dharma learning.
