The Fourth Meaning of Hien

Hien:  to make the Dharma pertinent to the needs and culture of modern times

The fourth and final meaning of Hien emphasizes the importance of tailoring Dharma practice and teaching to meet the needs of modern people, times, and cultures.

The Buddha modeled this practice of making the Dharma pertinent to his students throughout his teaching years. He chose examples and stories that he knew his intended audience would understand, speaking in ways that made the Dharma appropriate and accessible to people in all walks of life. Thay has done the same, offering teachings and books tailored to both the Vietnamese and to the American experience. We see our teachers engaging in this practice when they offers teachings on the hindrances that they find characteristically American, such as self-hate and difficulty trusting. Teachers also tailor the teachings to make the Dharma accessible for children and young adults.

Personal Reflection:

🔹 Am I gaining confidence in sharing my understanding, practice, experience, and realization of the Dharma with others who are not Dharma practitioners? With children and adults of different ages, cultures, ethnicities or life experiences?

🔹Can I share my experience, understanding, and practice with others in ways that inspires appreciation of how beneficial and meaningful Dharma practice can be?