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
The Six Harmonies of Engaged Buddhism in Everyday Life
Engaged Buddhism is first of all the kind of Buddhism that you live in every moment of your life. When you wash your dishes, drive your car, or brush your teeth, Buddhism should be there—not just during sitting meditation or chanting. It means recognizing your anger, fear, or jealousy as they arise, embracing them mindfully, and looking deeply into their nature. It also means responding to the suffering of brothers and sisters in your practice with compassion, offering help or seeking someone more capable to help them. Building and supporting a Sangha—creating the conditions, environment, and relationships that nourish practice—is itself an expression of Engaged Buddhism.
Traditionally, harmony is the substance of a Sangha, and there are six kinds of harmonies to guide Sangha building:
- Thân hòa đồng trụ (living together)
- Giới hòa đồng tu (practicing the same mindfulness trainings)
- Sharing the same material and moral conditions (food, drink, water, air, teaching)
- Ý hòa đồng duyệt, Kiến hòa đồng giải (sharing views through Loving Speech and Deep Listening)
- Dharma discussion (sharing knowledge, insight, success, and failure)
- Practicing loving speech (free from accusation, blame, and bitterness)
A Sangha built on these six harmonies carries within itself the Buddha and the Dharma and can transform families, city councils, parliaments, or the United Nations into genuine communities of understanding and peace.
