What should we do when a person attacks us physically?
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- čas přidán 12. 01. 2018
- Response provided by Thich Nhat Hanh to a written question on June 20, 2004 at Plum Village during the 21-Day Retreat with the theme of The Feet of the Buddha.
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This monk defeated all his enemies. He was a warrior for peace and compassion, and led a victory march across half the world for half a century. Apparently, even death isn't going to stop him or slow him down.
On the contrary - after death, he is now more free to continue his service. And of course - his legacy will probably grow even more in the years to come.
@@cango5679 what's his name again? I'll ask my friends which of his movies they seen
@@ShawnJonesHellion Die Harder 5
lets not forget the Monks who set themselves on fire, in protest of the American War in Vietnam. A war that resulted in 4 million dead Viets and Cambodians, and thousands more from the after effects of Unexploded Bomblets dropped by Americans, and poisoning from Agent Orange.
@@johndee3301 The tonnage of bombs dropped by US military during their Carpet Bombing Campaigns exceeded the total bombs dropped during WW2. This is a statistic I've read. Plus the effects of Agent Orange is still felt in Vietnam even today. 50-60 years after the War, unexploded bomblets dropped by US military is still being cleaned up. In addition the US military the use of Napalm to burn people alive is no less than what a Terrorist Cuntry would employ in any conflict.
Even though I will be honest with you all that in fact I am not a Buddhist, but I must say that this is a very smart, interesting, and logical way of thinking when it comes to such matters. As a Christian I have much respect for Buddhist's and their ways of life, I pray in the name of Yeshua that the Lord forgives us all and brings peace and rest for the world in these hard times, thank you for such a peaceful interview.
Buddhism or any other dharma, can be taken in small doses as philosophy. Non violence of Gandhi, who was a hindu, was a philosophy that he took from the Jains. Similarly, you can be Christian who takes elements of buddhism Jainism or Sikhism or whatever you want. There is only one way to god, and that one way is different for everybody.
It's a year old comment but can't help but want to contribute to this topic.
I've studied both Christianity and Buddhism for long time now. It made me realize how similar the teaching of Jesus and of the Buddha are. Both religion are talking about the same thing, teaching the same thing, talking about the same God.
In Buddhism, Buddha did actually say there is a God that encompass all. It just very hard to find this information because there just so many Buddhist sector that the mention of it is not focus or clear.
So I know for sure, there is the one inherent truth in both religions...and the way of life and practice in both religion is a guide to be with God and to be accepted in Heaven (the higher realms).
I do, however, prefer to study Buddhism more as it goes deeply in the technical and universal laws and helps me accept the life of living peacefully a lot easier, since with my hard headed nature I tended to not follow rules or accept laws easily unless I have a clear cut understanding and mechanic of WHY I must follows these rules.
So imo, you can definitely learn from both and see that we are all talking about the same thing and trying to reach the same goal. To be with God, to live life accordingly, and to be enlighten to escape this world that is full of sufferings.
I learned what it means to BE a Christian from Thich Nhat Hahn. 🙏
Morally, I think that (in self defense) you have a basic human right to fight back
Listen to ths section starting about 5:30. I think he acknowledges that Buddha may have used physical violence to defend himself. If I am interpreting him correctly, his emphasis is on avoiding those situations whenever possible.
@@maelstrom8757 not buddha before siddhartha became enlightened
The true self-defense is started well before any altercation.
My best friend was married to a cheater and a narcissistic sociopath. She finally had proof of his cheating. She asked him to get his stuff and go. He best her and took her phone and called 911 on HER! Had her changed with domestic assault. She was hauled away by the police. And spent a night in jail. She has worked her whole life as a nurse. Did everything "right" not everyone can be reasoned with.. I don't know what she could have send differently. So, he (her now ex) had a couple of scratches from defense. Hey bruising didn't show up for a few hours... That's why she went to jail. This sociopath tried to destroy her reputation at work and with her son and tried to destroy hey financially. She is angry and hurt and she thought he loved her... I'm trying to introduce her to Thich Nhat Hanh and mindfulness but she is so hurt and is listening to a really dumb pyschologist and but learning any skills. I mean, she met this guy at church and thought that meant he was a good person.
Not* learning any skills
These teachings are so far ahead of the game. The world today is divided into fear & courage, and hearing these teachings makes me realize the path of compassion, deep understanding, and deep dialogue, is truly the narrow path, and hard to walk.
World leaders still act like immature children. War can be avoided.
If your family is attacked, don't call a monk for help.
Unless you're ready for bedtime stories after mopping up the aftermath
Ok, but why would your family be attacked? Have you experienced this before? Or do you live in a place where it is unsafe? I am not trying to disrespect you, just curious… 🙏🏻❤️💪🏻
If you train police without compassion, patience, and mindfullness, you get incidents like when they raid the wrong house and kill the innocent person instead of the actual criminal.
Too many times people think the answer is more violence, but with policing we know the true way to reduce crime is not by militarizing the police but by practicing compassion and dealing with poverty and mental health.
But sure, use up police resources everytime your afraid if you want.
He makes a good point in that you can protect yourself by living a life that will make others not want to attack you. However, in today's state of things that simply is not enough. People will still attack and kill you because of who you are, regardless of what kind of person you are. Stay OUT of places where there are people who will likely attack you. Don't go where you don't belong.
I get your point. But what about people that were raised by abusive people?
Sometimes it can take a victim years to realize that they are being physically and mentally abused.. and not everyone has a support system or friends to be there for them.
@@yklemaj People have to grow up, move on. Make their own support systems, or rely on themselves. Just part of life. Not saying it's easy, or the same level of difficulty for everyone, it just is.
Those who are on a low frequency, those who are angry, jealous, covetous, selfish, etc., hate innocence and purity. We have to understand this. Communists hate Christians and all spiritual people, even animals. Satanists love to target the most vulnerable and innocent. We must protect the weak and innocent. Martial arts are fantastic.
Those who are on a low frequency, those who are angry, jealous, covetous, selfish, etc., hate innocence and purity. We have to understand this. Communists hate Christians and all spiritual people, even animals. Satanists love to target the most vulnerable and innocent. We must protect the weak and innocent. Martial arts are fantastic.
And If you were born in a country that suddenly found itself invaded?
Rest in peace, Master. Thank you for your example of love, humility and compassion.
🙏🏽🌹❤️
Literally the worst advice I was given by my JW mum was “turn the other cheek”. Welcome a childhood of physical bullying and emotional abuse, and an adult life of anxiety, shame and trauma.
I will teach my children to be fair, wise, compassionate and discerning. Sometimes a carefully placed fist is needed. /|\
Surely that wasn't the WORST piece of advice, Karma
Even Thay paused for quite a while when answering. This question can bring fear and rage.
I have heard that the objective of Jesus's teaching was to force your enemy to commit a crime. Striking backhand was thought to be acceptable for a wealthy man forcing someone out of his way, but if that poor man refuses to back down and turns his face, the wealthy man only has the options of striking his nose, striking with a forehand motion, or using his ceremonially dirty left hand. All of those actions were considered violent or horribly insulting.
@@Elite244 the worst was, "Look for compassion from strangers on the internet."
Consider helping your children to learn qigong & tai chi as they would learn to strengthen and defend themselves by redirecting the opponent’s force.
Yes ♥️
Thich Nhat Hanh is a great teacher.
Thick Nhat Hanh is the best. May God grant him a long life.
He is truly a great teacher. Namo Buddhay.
Admit I’m struggling with this one.
I was verbally and physically assaulted the other day in an unprovoked encounter. I believe the guy was on meth. I went into “freeze” mode and the attacker kept persisting. I wish I could have done a better job protecting myself to prevent the second wave of attacks which caused a traumatic disruption I’m still dealing with.
Dear friend, sending love 🙏
Hope you are doing better. It’s hard to conspire the Buddha’s compassion and mindfulness to our own. Like the llama says “Buddha did not need to use his martial arts”, however you and I are not Buddha’s so when our compassion fails a gun comes in handy as a last resort.
I’ve heard if someone is going to do you harm or rob you by stopping them you are saving them from their own bad karma
Martial arts has eased my suffering from similar incidents that happened to me when I was younger and was not able to defend myself. I also have a 'freeze' response. It is not as violent or intimidating as it may seem if you find a good gym with people you click with. It may be worth looking into and help these feelings or future unpredictable incidents that may arise and require those skills.It's also great exercise!
I would recommend maybe muy thai, judo, jujitsu, BJJ, MMA, boxing, or kickboxing. Much love brother.
look up Geoff Thompson. His work on dealing with confrontation, fear, physical confrontations....I wish I had studied that in my teens instead of wishy washy martial arts. Techniques are secondary to the mind game, 100%.
If the world thought as you do, we would know peace.
Toni Francis if you went beyond identifying with thoughts then you’d know your nature is peace itself. It wouldn’t matter what the world appears to be doing because that can only disturb your self-image but you’re self-image isn’t you.
Humans have been warring for thousands of years. It is human nature. Humans find their highest inventive prowess in war, and glorify themselves in war more highly than any other pursuit. To seek peace requires great effort for humans because it is against their nature. Adding to this, we now have an elite deep state that is constantly stirring up war, and a vast defense industry that needs war to stay in business. Companies like Raytheon, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and many others constantly produce Aircraft carriers, tanks, fighter jets, missiles, guidance systems and gatling guns and sell them to all nations. Then covert CIA operatives destabilize the internal structure of countries, shifting the blame on other nations to sow the seeds of war. This repeats over and over again, generation after generation. Humans are evil, greedy and warlike. If we are created in the likeness of God, then God must also be greedy, evil and warlike.
It is only with great effort, and only with a few, than humans find compassion and peace.
I agree, but let a person create peace within themselves and household first.
Peace be with you, Toni Francis. 🙂🙏✌️
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Thats not possible due to the natural state/fallen Nature of human beings due to sin which means missing the Mark which made us disconnet from God
00:18 The care he puts into setting the microphone down gently , mindfully
Was gonna say the same thing!!!!!
He passed away last week.
Summary: Be compassionate to minimize chance of attack, if attacked retreat into forest and utilize martial arts, attack elephants and trickery as needed. I love this.
Hi Eric I see that you're very involved in both biology and music which I am too! Cool to see such a person.
I guess you didnt watch the full video
What the hell, retreat into forest?
Compassion has given me the power to understand and forgive, even when I feel afraid and angry.
@DJ KarameloKaramelo KarameloKaramelo don't be intolerant to other peoples religions.
my coming to buddhism was a bit like discovering miles davis. I heard Bitches Brew in 1973 and thought, "huh". Gradually, over the years it found its way to becoming the very center of my entire appreciation of music.
just amazed by his way of teaching. i came to know about him after his death. such a great spiritual leader.
Yes. He continues to be so.
His tradition of thinking and teaching is a mix of Vietnamese patience and wisdom and French detached thinking reminiscent of the Indochina he grew up in as a kid. Unlike British India which was pure exploitation and repression, the french colony of Indochina (including Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia) saw a propagation of French intellect and culture and cultural exchange with the local educated elite and teachers. There were French schools for Vietnamese and French language was taught in school. Thay's personality absorbed both cultures beautifully and his understanding of a western culture allowed him to spread Buddhism worldwide.
I, too, only found him after his death. Wish I had done so a little sooner.
@@heonieluvr6781 I found him while he was alive but retired from teaching in Vietnam due to his health. I didn't know what had happened to him until he passed and it was all disclosed. It makes little difference though, his teaching is a tremendous help to those suffering physically or mentally or psychologically.
Me too, I come to know him after his death
Thich's beautiful teaching is so needed today
The first time I have listened to this enlightened, humble man, it won’t be the last.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you Dear Thay. I agree with your answer, because I've been protected by my own words in more than one experiences. Words of real compassion is a drop of water in a suffering heart who attack others in his emotional pain. Evangelina Cortes.
I wish more people understood this concept. All too often I hear world leaders immediately threaten to attack other nations to coerce them. Sure, sometimes feuds can't be peacefully resolved but there needs to be a pure effort to avoid the loss of lives. The blood is forever on their hands. Even Otto von Bismarck understood this when he said "Anyone who has ever looked into the glazed eyes of a soldier dying on the battlefield will think hard before starting a war."
Forgive me but wars are not started over feuds, they are started over greed for profit and exploitation of cheap labor.
czcams.com/video/g0Y888lwPgE/video.html
People always say we need more people like Thich Nhat, but very few say "I will try and be more like Thich Nhat."
Most people who start wars are mentally ill, it's usually a prerequisite...
I think every government leader who has military command power should mandatory see what you quoted Otto Von Bismarck saw, a dying soldier on the battlefield. It should be part of the training of high military commanders. Otherwise they do not grasp the human suffering of war and will seek diplomacy more actively and try to end conflict sooner and never close the door to a truce.
Last night i was subject to anxiety that i usually get but suddenly and mysteriously the image of Thay appeared in my mind as an outside force, not one that i called, and instantly eliminated all anxiety and worries. I think it was his intervention. I have been sincerely trying to learn from Thay and carry him in me and i think he manifested helping me. Thank you great master for your compassion and sharing your spiritual strength with your lay disciple person. I will try to make myself a hospitable and deserving welcoming temple for you.
Thay's face and voice are pure liquid calm, I never fail to feel at ease just listening to him.
What a beautiful human being, Master Thay 🙏 I hope he is healthy and feeling fit. Om 📿🌼
I get shivers when He speaks
So much love for Thay. He is so skilled, I keep learning and learning.
Your Fourteen Reminders were read at the beginning of every sesshin at the Montreal Zen Centre in Quebec, Canada. They inspired us and set the tone for our intensive retreats. So much gratitude.
He is my father I'm 36 and learning off a phone everything i should know
If somebody gets physical with You once, they will do it again
try and distance Yourself from people with no self control .
One of my brothers once snapped on Me and began to get physical, He wasnt hitting very hard just lightly flailing his arms at my body in a fit. I hugged him and said " I dont hate You, I dont hate You " and He just went limp in my arms . He was so moved by my gentle grace that He just hugged me back and started crying saying "That was so cool of You not to get angry" . I used this tactic because I know he has a good heart, and He just has stress that hes not good at managing. On the other hand I have a brother who has extreme anger issues . He constantly throws fits and if You trigger him with words, He quickly gets violent. Ive had to fist fight him 3 times, and it would be more except I often let him swing at Me a couple times and walk away, because I typically dont like fighting, its just I can only be pushed so far and sometimes I have to throw hands , to show Him that I'm not his punching bag and that I will crack him in the jaw if He tries to take his anger out on Me like I'm an inanimate object . I think its important to remember that family is frequency, and those who are related to You by blood arent necessarily the ones that should be around You for Your entire life. Find people who think feel and act like You, and treat eachother how You want to be treated.
❣️
Who cares
that's not enough. if your ''violent'' brother knows you kill him if he f**cks you, then he will be your best brother. not necessary in your case to drop your family. be the boss instead. do as you please, but my advice won't harm you either. cheers.
We are lucky to have you helping us find answers to these difficult questions. Thank you for generously sharing your thoughts to the world... which is very much in need of your wisdom.
I couldn't find a straight answer. It is not always possible to protect ourselves and our family and friends from enemies by using non violent ways. Sometimes harming them is the only way if you don't want to be harmed yourself. It is a wrong message to not protect yourself and let others harm you
U didn't get that right he said clearly that violence is last thing to do.
I love the telling of the story of Buddha and the elephants, it made me laugh and smile, thank you. These words of wisdom regarding retaliation or reasoning in times of conflict are very apt especially today when Britain has joined the USA in bombing what they consider to be chemical weapons facilities at three sites in Syria. Surely politicians or representatives could negotiate and come to a more peaceful and less harmful solution?
their clothing always looks so comfortable
It is
His voice is just so calming.
thank you sacred Thay 🙏
a true leader and teacher ☆ may we listen and learn well going forward
Very interesting, thought provoking and carefully constructed answer to this question. Thank you for sharing this.
No way he is 91!! He looks incredible.
Annette Gulliver this was 14 years ago
he is 93 this year
Find information, human being can live and must live up to a 100 years old at least but the way we live makes us age faster and we died sooner. This is a person thad lives in vibration with love, peace and joy, thads why hes 93 this year and he probably will live past 100
Hes vegan, and as they eat mostly whole foods the diet really helps.
Nobody also he doesn’t seem like someone that eats a lot either.
❤️❤️❤️❤️💐🌼🌹✨✨ I love Thich Nhat Hanh! My hero.... ✨🙏✨💪🌈
Thank you so much Dear Thay. Your wisdom is marvelous medicine to me. Evangelina Cortes.
This words of Thay are very true! It's possible with compassion and peace! This is in most of the defense of attacks the better way.
Thank you so much Thich Nath Hanh🥰💗🙏
One time one of my friend brought me to a canyon, very remote, for "bathing". He was acting weird, and I knew from his eyes he wanted to kill me. He was very jealous and unstable during these times I was living with his family. I looked at him with love and calmed him with compassion. But I also had my knife ready just in case, and he knew I was ready to defend myself. I knew he was like that, because it happened several times that he wanted to dominate me physically and pretend throw me out of the window from 3rd floor. It was pretend play, but I knew there was something more. I always responded firmly and with compassion to stop him.
some friend lol
@@sanlxndr sensitive people, life, insecurities, jealousy, dark impulses, uncontacted shadow.... Etc..
Quero agradecer imensamente a pessoa que traduziu as legendas para o português. É um grande privilégio ouvir os ensinamentos do Mestre! Obrigado Sangha Plum Village! Obrigado Mestre Thai! Gostaria muito de vê-lo pessoalmente. Mas moro distante, no Brasil e no momento não tenho as devidas condições de ir!!
He died last week.
Love to you my friend in Brazil. ❤ Luckily we have CZcams to receive the Dhamma. Check out Ajahn Sona channel also. Very brief and clear teachings. Namaste 🙏🏾
Idk why Masters are masters of long answer for every short questions..respects anyhow.
Such a great teaching. Thank you, Thay. I pray that you are with Amitabha Buddha.
I was told by my father when bullied to "handle it" in other words I'm weak if i can't, not wanting to disappoint countless fights terrible gave me two titanium plates over 100 wires and 3 facial reconstructive surgeries and 15 years to learn to walk again, my injuries from a fight that i certainly didnt want, first time i seen a reflection on a stainless steel plate on the ceiling as i was wheeled on a hospital bed not realizing how severe my injuries were. We need the path to peace i suffer severely with chronic pain and extreme depression for trying to protect myself and keep a sociopath happy! The wisest words was given to me by my coach an ex world champion..wisest and nicest old man I've ever met said to me "there's no winners in a fight" 30 years later i never forgot his words and never will. RIP Allen🙏
Thank you for sharing your experience, and I'm sorry that you had to go through it. Your example brings up the actual reality of fighting, which isn't what is seen in the martial arts and superhero movies that condition people to accept and glorify violence. Many people in the comments seem to focus way too much on Thich Nhat Hanh's grudging acceptance of violent self-defence as a very last resort, even though it was like 2% of the whole story.
@@IlmariLahti thanks for your comment it's appreciated and totally agree.
And protecting myself from attacking myself mentally or physically accidentally. It is now easier to recognize now, and more quickly.since I have learned of the inner presence I share with my brothers. Even mindfully watching what I eat, or need for rest. I see mistakes with more compassion.
Thank you for posting this. What I received was that the time to ask this question “ what to do when physically attacked” is long before there’s any threat of it. To live instead with loving kindness and mindfulness results in almost never having to do anything. Why? You will have many who will protect you, and you will have compassion for the attackers anyway…we may need an army but they will rarely have to fight , just work on boat repairs and other things most of the time. Political leaders need to be informed (by us) that they must acquire this wisdom .
His teaching is very relevant to the current 2022 Russia Ukraine war. Misunderstanding creates fear and anger. Fear is dangerous and can result in a country attacking others with army and gun. Thank you teacher for the dharma.
The way of the peaceful warrior.
A very moving response. It's almost like the silences between what he's saying are as important as what he's saying.
Such a wise teacher thank you
How relevant this teaching is in today's situation.
Live in a way nobody wants to attack you!
Sally. Yes it does work, but the truth is people are like animals and will attack verbally or whatever. I seen many people like this.
Sadly.. it doesn't work.
I've lived in my neighborhood for 6 yrs now. The only social contact I've had with others has always been positive and helpful from my end. I usually keep to myself, very quiet- out of sight out of mind approach. And yet I find myself constantly being blamed for things I do not do.
Which is typically other neighbors anonymously calling police on trouble tenants and anonymously putting complaint notes on their doors.
I've been blamed, harrassed, screamed at and nearly assaulted over it by neighbors I've never even spoken with prior, only ever waved and smiled at them in passing.
A big portion of the human race are devolving into wild animals with no intelligence or reasoning. They are frightening to the point that they will attack you even if you do good unto them
Following the Buddha Way doesn't mean being a good natured doormat. If someone insists on destroying you or your fellow beings you have a right to protect yourself and your fellow beings. Using the aggressors ignorance and stupidity against themselves takes great skill and intelligence but can be achieved using the martial arts in personal attacks and diplomacy/statesmanship in international affairs.
Boundaries, among social contacts.
After one too many accidental blows to my head, I do not need to allow this Covert Narcissist anywhere near me.
@@patriciastewart2537 I hope you're feeling better these days Patricia.
Thua kinh Thay,
Thank you for your continuation of your eternal presence.. " A Cloud Never Dies" TNH 🙏🙏🙏❤
Qigong is amazing art
I've been enjoying the health benefits as well
Thank you so much 💓
Thich Nhath Hanh
You are my favorite teacher 💕
Always
Melody 🙏❤💐💐💐💐💐💐
That’s right. However, if you want to make a positive difference in the world, you will definitely offend someone.
Yesterday, I wanted to convince a smoker to exhale the smoke before entering the train and not harming others with his smoke. The response was a death treat. 😔
I'm sorry for that. At least there's always other ways to help. More "safe" ways. Like practicing ZERO WASTE! It's a great try 💖💖💖🤗
You'll make a positive difference the day you will stop trying to make a positive difference.
You might have had good intentions for doing what you did, but don't hold it against that person for taking it the wrong way- we never know what one is or has been going through. All you can do is politely ask once, if they refuse, respect their choice, and let them be. Otherwise, if you persist, you'd be trying to force them to do something they don't want to do and that is not kind.
Peace be with you.
@@TheDonElizondo Yes. No one smokes at free will. In fact, no one has free will.
We have Free Will, Stefan. I know it's Tricky, but we are certainly not Robots 😂 I mean, I understand Dependent Origination. However, we still have the ability to decide. We can not choose the thoughts that arise in our heads, but we can think about how to react to them ...
When one has had the Experience, been touched by that inner light, you can walk free untouched by "this world".
When you have reached that un worldly thing which is the Buddha mind, the Christ mind, you are un touchable, nothing can kill you...maybe your body, but not You.
Thank you for your wisdom and wise words you have taught us I will forever remember you fly high my dear friend rest easy now 🙏
not dead
Good question and beautiful answer
Thanks for your teachings and bless life
he was 78 years old in this video :O
I am reminded of the police officers who don't carry guns in Britain. They have to use words to solve situations because they don't have a gun.
Darren N THAT AIN'T 🇺🇸
Darren N
They carry bAttons
They carry guns. Just not on their person
Darren N How many years ago ?
What? My neighbour s son was killed by the police,an officer was filmed by strangers with his knee ramming into the boy' s back between his shoulders.A few years ago a Brazilian man was shot by police in london in a case of mistaken identity. I could go on smh. Why would you say that? The thing is this blind loyalty thing u lot are so keen on thinking its being patriotic is just making things worse.
Having experienced a physical attack, my response was to remain true to myself. I firmly believe in forgiveness. After the attack I reminded the attacker that I forgave them. The details of the event are complex. My forgiveness is simple. I forgive because I have no way of knowing what the other person has experienced. I understand that my experience is unique and doesn’t apply to others. May we share our experiences and create a better life for our fellows. Namaste
his voice his pure and peaceful , thank you
Interesting advice and outlook. However, I believe one of the best ways of self-protection is to hold oneself confidently (hence, exuding a Hard Target demeanour) at all times and to practice the art of staying alert in a relaxed and non-anxious way. Developing confidence comes from practicing a combat martial art, and can protect you if things get physical. Always remaining alert and aware (of your environment and the people in your environment) can enable you to spot a potential attacker and to avoid physical confrontation in the first instance. The best defence is NOT BEING THERE!
I will tell you something to neutalize your oponent of course if is possible.
You need to swallow your pride... and run away. You cannot be pride to love people. Even Jezus run away when he was attacked.
You also can say to oponent "That cost you a lot of energy. Let me give you back that." And punch him. That his dharma anyway.
If you not that strong like enemy you can't tell how many of energy he used, so you can't give back same amount... then run away.
Basically better to run away anyway. Swallow your pride and run away.
Pride is a kind of love where you love more yourself from others. Swallow your pride and run away.
From today you have reason for jogging. That will be healthy for you as well.
Pride is no healthy, noo...
Thank you.
Oxygen is available freely and jogging is a great solution!
Hope, by now you have reached moon !!
Keep trimming nails and hair when unwanted, instead of rooting them out !!! uncomfortable (whose nails? Depends upon the situation)
Being constructive and compassionate ultimately seems the best solution to retain one's energy, peace and happiness.
Happy life.
I have been looking for a sophisticated and complete answer to this question... and here it is
When a person is slow to respond a question that’s a very wise person.
Of course you can. The great reformer, John Knox referred to it as “The sword of just defence”. This man deflected the direct question on the physicality. Of course we all do what we can to avoid conflict. But in war, you slay the enemy with impunity, or face being vanquished. It is just that simple. 🙏
He did not deflect it. He said very clearly that it was the last resort. Then he spent time explaining, how to do the more relevant thing; to prevent the war from ever happening, or halt and resolve it if it has started. If that (what you wrote in your comment) is what you took away from this video, it just gives me the impression that you are biased towards looking for someone to tell you it's okay and righteous to "slay the enemy with impunity", and if they don't do so the "evade the question". He does not say this without direct experience either. Thich Nhat Hanh, who made great progress and success with peace operations during the Vietnam war, and has seen the worst horrors war can offer. I would say, listen with a more open mind, and instead of seeing a man "deflecting a question" you might see what the actual reason of him answering in this way is.
Of course there are situations where we have to kill, but you are giving a black and white answer undergirded by black and white thinking: "Kill or be killed." That's not "realism", it's more akin to egoism, and you almost seem to evince a righteous savor at the prospect of "slaying your evil enemy in a good cause". This is harmful, and on a macro-scale perpetuates good/evil thinking which is behind much of the violence on earth. In any event, it's never so simple: in geopolitical conflict your "kill or be killed" mentality, in practice, inevitably provokes one to aggression: the sword of defense turns to the sword of offense all too quickly because the dichotomy between offense and defense is false. And all along, the problem is a lack of compassion as the primary algorithm, and a refusal to consider a gradation of responses to violence, rather than an unskillful all or nothing response like you suggest.
Yes, ok, the Buddha could protect himself from a raging bull with superpowers. But ordinary people cannot do that. And there are many psychopaths and people without conscience in society these days that do not respond to kindness and compassion. Buddhist accounts do not seem to contain examples of deadly encounters with psychopaths or people lacking conscience. Also, the Vinaya says there is no blame for a monk that strikes with a blow to secure his freedom.
So, ok. At least he says you should try all wise means to avoid difficult situations by being a person of virtue, but as a very last resort, the life of someone trying to take yours is not more valuable than your own.
The Buddha said kamma was too complex to ponder. The Buddha said knowing all the rules was not necessary if we can act with virtue/conscience. The Buddha said that intent was superior to action. If our primary intent is virtuous, little actions that follow are not superior.
The Buddha murdered uncountable beings walking around to teach; those on and under the ground. But that was not his intent, which was to teach. Obviously, the intent to teach humans was superior to the side-effect of murdering 1000s of insect beings on or below the ground.
Enjoyed this so much.
Thank you Thay. I want to follow your steps.
I don't like the servility of his assistants, what has that got to do with consciousness? I was part of a well known organization that had that implicit expectation. The inner being that looks through our eyes wants us to find the reality of its nature with dignity, surely not as slaves. Please explain to me why this happens, I would like to be educated on this point.
She is like his hand maiden
Respect.
This teacher deserves a devoted helper.
It's a natural order of respect. Humans know when someone is better or smarter. And with humility, you shut up and listen and learn.
Felt the same when my ceo cracks a low-level joke and all c-levels laugh sheepishly. This is just a show of respect, not to be mistaken for anything you said.
This is not servility. It's love and gratitude towards the teacher for his compassion. It's automatic and natural, it's not forced or demanded. If you don't feel the gratitude , then you won't do it. If you feel the gratitude, it will naturally flow from your being.
8:30 “when the country is united and run by wise people” you don’t need violence. Ha, well, good luck finding a homogenous, united and wisely run country nowadays
Not with your attitude
@@JacobFirlotte hahahaha name me one then my friend
@@jordangill2710 I’m saying it’ll never happen with that attitude.
People probably said the same thing regarding cars, flying, internet etc
@@JacobFirlotte You can’t name one. Point proven.
I didn’t say it was impossible, just that it currently isn’t the case, and so isn’t currently a viable option. Our current leaders are warmongering psychopaths who use the media and military industrial complex to stoke the fires of war and push narratives that get the public on board. We all know this. Saying we can have no violence if our countries are extremely wisely governed doesn’t help, because they are not wisely governed.
In addition to this, I’m presuming he would say that Tibet was wisely governed given that the Dalai Lama ran it with councils of wise Buddhists all around him all committed to non-violence, and yet the nation was overrun and invaded by China, so non-violence and Buddhist wisdom completely failed that nation and got them defeated.
Buddhism is about seeing reality as it is, right here and now in this present moment, without desire, fear, ego or prejudice. This is the truth, the truth is that only violence counters and protects from violence.
Tibet was non-violent, it was defeated.
Jesus was non-violent, he was crucified.
Gandhi was non-violent, he was assassinated.
Countless saints and holy men have been martyred or tortured, countless Buddhists killed.
India has for most of its history been the country most dedicated to non-violence (Buddhism, Ashoka, Jainism, Gandhi, etc) and practically every neighbour from the Muslims to the British have invaded and overrun it.
The moral solution to the problem of violence is to endeavour to never INITIATE violence, but always be ready to RETALIATE and reciprocate violence when it in initiated against us. This is the only solution and the only deterrent. We must be strong and ready and this is the main thing that will maintain peace.
We have had no world wars or massive conflicts since nuclear weapons, and this is because of mutually assured destruction. This is the ultimate deterrent. Nuclear weapons have prevented more potential wars and violence than any religion or philosophy ever. I wish it was otherwise, but it isn’t.
11:01 Deep dialogue, deep listening, loving kindness. Thank you. This is idealistic in this crazy world with violent people and violent countries acting out and destroying for gain without diplomacy. However today and every day these lessons are vast and peaceful.
It's also true in real life. Failing to build the trust of others where you live can leave you isolated and vulnerable. Even prone to being accused of crimes.
The enlightened ones are really worthy of reverence. I would bow to this man.
How to speak elephant to a charging Donald Trump in musth?
Beautiful thoughts. However there are different levels of situations. People break in homes, rob, injure and murder. What those victims have done wrong that didn't prevent such violence? What about Isis? This question wasn't answered properly only partially.
He said that we should live in such a way (with generosity, compassion, and strength of friendships) that people would be less likely to want to harm us. And if someone does try to harm us anyway, then we should FIRST look for an opportunity to use our intelligence and compassion to find a peaceful resolution. If all of these things fail, and someone is still trying to harm us, we then use violence to stop them "as a last resort." He did answer the question fully, addressing the different levels of situations that you mentioned.
exeterkered c
it is easy to talk and be a hero at safe harbor...
"Take things as they are. Punch when you have to punch. Kick when you have to kick." - Bruce Lee ;)
You are fully responsible for everything you experience. That is because your emotional perspective on reality is what creates your reality in the first place, in other words your thoughts and feelings lead to your experience. That is also known as the law of attraction. Check out some books or lectures from Alan Watts, who did a great job putting this into words. There are a lot free lectures on CZcams, just search for the name.
You learn in the Bhagavad Gita to accept there is suffering as well as joy in life, that there's no way to avoid that, that you may try hard to get good things for yourself and succeed, but at some point there's going to be pain and it may not be your fault, just the way nature is, that even good things are ultimately a trap, and you have to look beyond opposites like good/bad, pleasure/suffering to find who you really are. I prefer that approach better, as it seems to me closer to the truth.
A war could be lost or won in the time it took this monk to answer the question.
True, but I’d rather experience this and learn something than experiencing war. Besides, no one actually ‘wins’ a war. 🙏🏻
Thich Nhat Hanh gives an excellent answer to this question.
The only way to get an actual answer out of him is to try it and see what he does. I expect things would go rather badly for him, but he'd have a long winded set of excuses ready to try and explain it all away. Of course solving and achieving nothing other than submitting to someone elses will because he was too Buddhist to do anything about it... :-/
Somehow, it seems unwise to advocate hurting a 90 year old man don't you think?
@@cameroncordova6448 I'm sure than condescension felt good. :-) There is nothing in my post that advocates or condones hurting a 90 year old man. I said to try it and see what he does. The "it" is the topic of their discussion so I'm no more advocating anything than anyone else is there. The reality is that he's talking purely philosophically of how in an ideal Buddhist world one should deal with conflict and violence. That has no bearing in actual reality and by simply shaking his hand harder than expected you could prove that. There is no need to hurt anyone to prove the point. You should try lecturing that guy at some dark lonely bus stop with nefarious intent, he doesn't care about this guys lengthy soliloquy in defense or your dirt level trolling... and neither do I.
@@th-pw8pn to be honest, your two comments here seem more condescending than what you replied to... peace and love
@@nicholasjuricic3683 What exactly have you added to the world of "peace and love" with your comment?
You have simply shown yourself to be a sanctimonious virtue signaler by only displaying that your feelings were hurt on someone else's behalf. Do better at life, you're really not that important... 🙂
I find this response so interesting and logical. The emphasis is on the preparation, the groundwork, the preventative measures. We, humans, tend to only face violence when it is facing us, so we respond to it with fear, but Thay, in his wisdom shares the story of the Buddha. If I understood correctly, the Buddha knew that part of human nature is to be contrary, so part of his action while in the forest was to learn and share with others who dwell there. When action with violent intent was directed at him he was prepared and responded from a place of wholeness. He never denied the possibility of violence, he just engaged it with different tools. Thank you for such wise teachings. Clouds never die.
You have that basic right to self-preservation.
Very wise. Thank you for sharing 🙏
Best teaching ever 🌷🌷🌷☸️☸️☸️
From a Buddhist monk such as the wonderful Thich Nah Han there can only be one answer and that is the way of the peaceful warrior. Buddha had ability most haven't realised yet so until then the middle way is useful. Don't be the aggressor creating violence AND DO NOT BE A DOORMAT PASSIVIST WHEN VIOLENTLY ATTACKED as your life or families life may well depend on your ability to defend yourself.
A peaceful answer from a very wise man
Thank you sir.
This guy is a true rockstar.
We should build him a monument, and that monument should be world peace.
love thay nhat hanh from garden grove california,follow thay teaching
Beautiful ❤️
Rest in peace brother💜🙏 enlightened kind wise soul
Thank you gentle being🙏🏻❣️😌
I can’t take the pain of people hurting me anymore.
praying for peace in your heart, mind and body, Milan
I love that his first instinct was to go to "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure". That's wisdom that's sadly not repeated enough nowadays, and yet it applies to nearly every type of problem.
Power is definitely still needed to defend ourselves. While I personally have never been in any serious fight my whole life, and I do things the minimize the possibility of those encounters, I'm also very aware that I'm relying on the power of the government I live under. Without their police and military, things would be disorderly and chaos, and so I feel those parts of my country are necessities to keep the peace. It's definitely conceivable that gradual de-escalation happens among all countries, which allows us to have more and more peace over time though, and I certainly hope for that.
It's worth noting that nowadays we _are_ staggeringly peaceful. There's a fantastic video "The Fallen of World War II" here on CZcams. While the entire thing is a great watch, the part from 14:20 onwards covers everything _after_ WW2 (up til 2016) and makes an _extremely strong_ case for just how staggeringly peaceful things have become. It's just a great reminder to appreciate that peace and encourage it any way we can.
Wars are only one factor to consider. There is the case that perceived 21st century peace is transient. You can see that a new war has been created in Ukraine as a result of American influence. Nuclear weapons are very easily proliferated, and in the future we may see hyperproliferation, with unstable, low intelligence nations acquiring them.
Finally, there is an outright crisis of mental health, combined with low IQ migrant populations, racial and fertility dynamics, which will result in grave unrest in the US and Europe. See the race riots in Paris. Truth is, American and Western European cities are effectively unpoliced and lawless. Prosecutors don't have the resources to cope with the extreme level of migrant crime, so police catch and release.
En reverencia 🙇 bien amado maestro Thay.🌻
Reminds me of a quote.
"A true warrior needs no sword".
A skillful "warrior" has placated all of his enemies before needing to draw a sword, or maybe hasn't made any enemies at all...
"It is okay for a Teacher to be sad..." Beloved Thay❤❤❤
That cleared things up!
This is a great master
What he says is true. The conquering of oneself is better than a thousand military conquests. It is better to neutralise a physical attack than to respond to it. However it is easier said than done because of fear. But when there is no other way you have the right to defend yourself.
Compassion may be used with those people who, in their ignorance, see their errors as right and stubbornly don't accept corrections. Diplomacy functions whenever from the other side there is an opening to dialogue and intelligence. On the other hand, there are people who are simply evil - they are malevolent either because of power, of pride or because it's their nature. It's better to avoid completely this last category in order to not deal with a destructive mentality.
I love this man but there is no answer, you just need to protect yourself. I feel people are looking for an answer that’s just not there.
The Bhagavad Gita is the best source of understanding for this. The question here was not how to prevent attack. The question was what now during the attack???