The First Meaning of Tiep

Tiep:  To receive direct transmission of the good and beautiful qualities that our Dharma ancestors have handed down through the ages.

This is the first meaning embedded in the Vietnamese word Tiep and pertains especially to becoming and being a living exemplar of the Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings and spirit of Tiep Hien in daily life and one’s way of being in the world—that is, “embodying” the Dharma.

How our teachers and mentors model and embody Dharma practice in their being and doing in daily life is one way they transmit the practice. We can receive transmission and learn how to be and do ourselves simply by observing such practitioners in the sangha—watching closely with full attention how they walk, stand, sit, interact, participate in groups, invite the bell with mindfulness and concentration, share the Dharma, or lead meditation. As many have observed, how Thay enters the meditation hall is a complete, unspoken “Dharma Talk.”

Personal Reflection:

🔹 What am I learning about how to embody the Dharma by watching how others practice?

🔹 What actions of my body, speech, and mind might I need to change to more fully embody the Dharma in my own life?

🔹 How am I cultivating equanimity, relaxed presence, and ease in my daily life, activities, and interactions with others?

🔹 How am I taking refuge in the three jewels?