Living as One Body: The Sangha Organism of Collective Wisdom

Thich Nhat Hanh · May 28, 2002 · Hermitage, Plum Village, France · Audio Only

Science now studies social animals and finds a wisdom transmitted by several generations that sustains their species through altruism. By following the Buddha’s way, we not only assure the Sangha’s continuation in history but can very quickly transform separation, egoism, afflictions, individualism, division, and hatred—becoming a true refuge and hope for the world. Living as a Sangha means embodying an organism: whether in the vegetable garden, meditation hall, kitchen, or video room, each action is the work of the whole. Gathering for sitting or walking meditation simply makes this shared life more visible, so visitors sense an ocean rather than isolated rivers.

The greatest gift during the 21-day retreat is the Sangha itself, not the Dharma talks. A Sangha-as-organism mirrors our body, where cells—without discussion or plan—harmoniously function to sustain life. By opening every cell of our being to the wisdom and habit energy cultivated over 2,600 years by our ancestors, we take giant steps on the path of transformation and healing and become a refuge for the world. Metaphors of our unity include: