Brief Description

In Thundering Silence, Thich Nhat Hanh presents the early teachings of the Buddha on how to see reality clearly without becoming caught by notions and ideologies, however noble. These teachings can liberate us from the prisons of our mental constructions and allow us to enjoy life fully and be a resource for others. The attitude of playfulness, openness, and non-attachment from views by the Buddha in this sutra is an important door for us to enter the realm of Buddhist thought and practice.

Sample Chapter

"Bhiksus, a person who studies that way can be compared to a man trying to catch a poisonous snake in the wild. If he reaches out his hand, the snake may bite his hand, leg, or some other part of his body. Trying to catch a snake that way has no advantages and can only create suffering.

"Bhiksus, understanding my teaching in the wrong way is the same. If you do not practice the Dharma correctly, you may come to understand it as the opposite of what was intended. But if you practice intelligently, you will understand both the letter and the spirit of the teachings and will be able to explain them correctly. Do not practice just to show off or argue with others. Practice to attain liberation, and if you do, you will have little pain or exhaustion."