Thich Nhat Hanh, one of the most important spiritual leaders of our time,
died today at Từ Hiếu Pagoda in Vietnam. He was 95.
Affectionately referred to as “Thay,” by his students, Thich Nhat Hanh has often been referred to as “the father of mindfulness.” In his 95 years, he made a global impact as a teacher, author, activist, and founder of the Engaged Buddhism movement. His simple yet deeply profound teachings led countless people towards a life of mindfulness, joy, and peace and helped define Buddhism for the modern world.
We at Lion’s Roar are deeply saddened to share the news of his passing. The three pieces below offer a look into the remarkable life and teachings of this wonderful teacher. We hope his words and life’s example will touch your heart as they have ours.
In his book,
At Home in the World, published in 2016, Nhat Hanh addressed the idea of his death, writing:
“Even when the cloud is not there, it continues as snow or rain. It is impossible for the cloud to die. It can become rain or ice, but it cannot become nothing. The cloud does not need to have a soul in order to continue. There’s no beginning and no end. I will never die. There will be a dissolution of this body, but that does not mean my death.”
“I will continue, always.”
Lilly Greenblatt, Digital Editor, Lion’s Roar
Here is a sample of his teachings -
Thich Nhat Hanh on The Practice of Mindfulness
Best wishes to all his students & admirers