Statement on the passing of Thich Nhat Hanh
As members of the Council of the Greater NY/NJ Triratna Community, we extend our condolences to the International Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism and to the Order of InterBeing, as they mark the passing of Venerable Thich Nhat Hanh.
Thich Nhat Hanh's steadfast exemplification of the Buddhadharma has inspired countless people around the world for decades, and will continue to do so after his death. We recollect that it was he who coined the terms Engaged Buddhism and Interbeing -- principles which he embodied throughout his life, and expressed so clearly and poetically in his writings. He reminds us of the indivisibility of wisdom and compassion in action, and of the importance of spiritual friendship through, for example, his bond with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Thich Nhat Hanh dared to re-write the traditional Buddhist training precepts to meet the suffering of our modern world, blending his deep roots of lineage with innovative genius, and keen attunement to issues of violence, dogmatism, systemic oppression and climate change. Fusing direct political action with deep grounding in Dharma and an ardent commitment to continuous mindfulness, he was the very peace he advocated for, and a mighty force of love in the world. He is often quoted as saying that "the next Buddha will be the Sangha," and he took to heart the work of actualizing what Dr. King called "Beloved Community," in his sangha and beyond. May we all take this vision to heart, and find peace in every step.
We encourage our local sangha to learn more about Thich Nhat Hanh and to contemplate his extraordinary contribution. These resources may help:
Full Biography and Memorial information on the Plum Village website
Obituary by Vishvapani in the Guardian
A recollection by Alan Senauke
"Peace is Every Step" a film made in 1998 highlighting his anti-war activism, free until Jan 31st. Trailer here.
Announcement on the Buddhist Center Online
Council Members:
Ananta, Padmadharini, Samayasri, Upayadhi