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Message of Fire - Poetry by Vu Hoang Chuong

Thich Nhat Hanh · July 19, 2003 · Plum Village, France
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The details of this talk focus on the story of Vu Hoang Chuong and the nonviolent struggle movement of Vietnamese Buddhism. He went through great trials when he was arrested by the Hanoi government, emphasizing the importance of silence and acceptance. Buddhism does not support any side in the conflict between communism and capitalism, instead, it aims for peace and reconciliation. Vietnamese youths who participated in political movements to save the country ultimately became victims of the political system. In literature, the story “The Clear Water River” by Nhat Linh illustrates the tragedy of mutual elimination between political parties. Thich Nhat Hanh emphasizes that nonviolent struggle is the true revolutionary path, based on compassion. He tells the story of Venerable Thich Quang Duc’s self-immolation, inspiring the nonviolent struggle movement. The sacrificial actions of figures like Yen Phi and Nhat Chi Mai aimed to call for peace and end the war. He also talks about the establishment of the Order of Interbeing to spread the spirit of nonviolent peace. Thich Nhat Hanh wrote poetry praising Vu Hoang Chuong and encouraged writing poetry as a way to convey messages of peace and compassion.

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