Thich Nhat Hanh (mystic, Buddhism, translation, experience, blessing)

[Scarlett Wampus]

I'm currently reading a book called 'The Art of Power' by Thich Nhat Hanh. Its the first book by him I've read despite having been impressed when over they years I've come across various bits and pieces connected to him on the Interwebs. At first I felt I was going to be put off by the book's simplicity, assuming there would be a lack of depth in the writing overall because of that, but the simplicity is actually what I am finding most striking now.

Has anyone else read one or more of his books or even met him? I'd be interested what your view is, what your experience has been.

[lilithu]

Originally Posted by Scarlett Wampus

I'm currently reading a book called 'The Art of Power' by Thich Nhat Hanh. Its the first book by him I've read despite having been impressed when over they years I've come across various bits and pieces connected to him on the Interwebs. At first I felt I was going to be put off by the book's simplicity, assuming there would be a lack of depth in the writing overall because of that, but the simplicity is actually what I am finding most striking now.

Has anyone else read one or more of his books or even met him? I'd be interested what your view is, what your experience has been.

I've read "Peace Is Every Step" and "Living Buddha, Living Christ." I could swear I've also read a translation of the Heart Sutra by him but may be confused. Yes, in keeping with my stereotypes of Zen Buddhists, his writings are simplistic and yet deep. I love the guy. I should read more by him.

The thing I like the most about him is that he is socially engaged.

[Scarlett Wampus]

Originally Posted by lilithu

The thing I like the most about him is that he is socially engaged.

I thought you might.

I came across his precepts for Engaged Buddhism a long time ago. Found them agreeable but daunting to look at back then. Now they don't seem so daunting because such guiding principles seem a sane response to what I find in life (and a large part of that is what I've given up trying to escape or avoid)

Since he is a Zen Buddhist its no wonder I warm to his style. That he puts so much focus on practical matters of the heart as well as meditation & mindfulness is really useful for a lay person like myself also. So many of the Zen writers I like are coming from monastic backgrounds that make their teaching, no matter how brilliant, somewhat difficult to take into my own practice.

Oh heck, I'm totally loving Thich Nhat Hanh right now. Might as well say it. Really, I have a similar being to someone in love when I read his writing.

[MysticSang'ha]

Thich Nhat Hanh will always hold a very dear and special place in my heart since he was the author that expressed the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path in such a way that drew me home to the Dharma.

I'm so happy you like him, SW!! Blessings!!!




Peace,
Mystic