Dharma Talk at Cay Thi Pagoda - Phu Tho

On Jan 07, 2017 (Dec 10, lunar calendar), based on the invitation of Reverend Thich Dao Huan, Senior Venerable Thich Chan Tinh had a Dharma talk to the participants in the One-Day Retreat at Cay Thi Pagoda (Thien Phuc Pagoda) in Phu Ho Commune, Phu Tho Town, Phu Tho Province.

Opening the lecture, Venerable Thich Chan Tinh highly complimented the Reverend Abbot for his efforts and loving kindness in building such a monumental pagoda as well as other works and facilities for the worship and practice of Buddhist devotees. Besides annual retreats for Buddhists, the Reverend has performed the spirit of a true clergyman bringing the pagoda back to its original functions. Thus, in his Dharma talk, the Venerable shared about Buddhism fundamentals as following:

* The role of the pagoda

* The Cause and Effect Rule in life

* The importance of individual efforts in practice

* Wisdom is the target for Buddhists to cultivate

Indeed, these are important issues for practitioners’ practice on their Path. With the story of Anathapindika, the Venerable highlighted the role of pagoda in any community as a place for ashram to learn Dharma and practice Buddha's teachings. With Buddhism knowledge and penetration in the treasure house of Dharma, we can attain the true wisdom, acknowledge that this life is impermanent and this temporary body is not the real one for us to shelter. With wisdom, we can master the Cause and Effect Rule, have the right understanding, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness and right concentration to have freedom from sufferings and ease. Happiness or unhappiness is our choice instead of the favor or present from Buddha. Buddhism is the right Path that Buddha teaches us. He is more likely the seasoned doctor giving out the prescriptions for patients. Taking the medicine or not, promoting ourselves on the Path or not are our decisions.

Mastering all these things will help us understand the meaning of Pagoda and its roles. With such mindset from Buddhists devotees, the Pagoda can develop its full function as a place for us to learn, practice during our Path to the Enlightenment and benefit all.

Following are the recorded photographs:

BBT Website