Advising People to Enter the Way (The way of Zen in Vietnam - 001)
Advising People to Enter the Way
The seasons have now transitioned from spring to autumn, continuing their cyclical rotation.
As one grows from youth to old age, you notice the hair turning white.
Wealth and nobility, once a distant dream, now seem unattainable.
Years and months pass, bearing countless burdens of sorrow.
In the journey of suffering, the wheel of rebirth turns endlessly.
In the river of passion, we swim like bubbles, forming and popping.
Now that you've arrived at the right place to learn the Way, why not touch your nose?
This is a unique opportunity that only presents itself once in a lifetime.
TUE TRUNG THUONG SI (1230-1291)`
NOTE: Tue Trung Thuong Si stated that everything is in a constant state of change. The Buddha taught that the fire of impermanence continually affects everyone and everything. It is essential to observe impermanence in all circumstances, recognize that nothing possesses a permanent self, and understand that the sensation of suffering emerges when the river of passion flows through your body and mind incessantly. How can one learn the path to escape suffering?
While invisible, the Way is right in front of you. Similarly, despite being directly in front of you, it can be challenging to see your nose. Only when you wash your face do you touch your nose and realize that it has always been there, right in front of you.
Washing your face, in this context, signifies the need to embark on the right path-to listen to the Dharma, contemplate the Dharma, and practice the Dharma with virtue, concentration, and insight. Touching your nose also represents experiencing the present moment-the here and now-where the mind is free from any trace of desire, hatred, or delusion. In this moment, you may glimpse Nirvana.
You cannot see the Way because it is invisible; however, the Way is right in front of you. Similarly, your nose is positioned directly in front of you, yet it can be difficult to see. Only when you wash your face do you touch your nose and realize that it has always been there, right in front of you.
Washing your face, in this context, signifies the need to embark on the right path: to listen to the Dharma, contemplate the Dharma, and practice the Dharma with virtue, concentration, and insight. Touching your nose also represents experiencing the present moment-the here and now-where the mind is free from any trace of desire, hatred, or delusion. In this moment, you may glimpse Nirvana.
Video made by Nguyen Giac Phan Tan Hai
This work is dedicated to the public domain.