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Ordiantion of Sister Chân Không at Vulture Peak

Thich Nhat Hanh · November 4, 1988 · Vulture Peak, Rajgir, India · Monastic talk

The community gathers on Gridhrakuta Mountain to witness sisters and brothers solemnly taking the vow to receive, study, and practice the precepts of the Order of Interbeing. Ordinands bow to the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha in gratitude towards parents and all beings in the animal, vegetable, and mineral worlds who provide support and nourishment. The life of a close disciple is described as full of beauty, peace, and the Dharma.

During the hair cutting, the true mind is determined to lead the way to the non-conditioned, no longer bound to anything. The song is of the lovely teaching and the fragrance is the essence of truth. Receiving the nectar of Bodhi allows the mind of enlightenment to appear in its wholeness.

With the removal of hair, the way becomes wide open, and suffering and illusion are to be entirely ended. Hands that have practiced loving kindness and a heart where compassion has never ceased to grow support a vow that can transform the world in all the ten directions.