The Third Meaning of Hien

Hien: acting to realize our aspirations and objectives in the world

This is the third teaching embedded in the Vietnamese word Hien.

This third meaning of Hien captures the need to make our understanding and compassion real in the world, to move beyond intellectual understanding into action. First we act to realize true freedom within ourselves, which brings true happiness—an abiding sense of joy, calm, peace of mind, and ease of being. Then we share this realization with others, helping these qualities to flower harmoniously within others and in the world at large. Thay calls this movement the “ripening or realization of our practice.” This meaning reminds us of our Bodhisattva vow. We publicly affirm our intention and commitment to act for the benefit of others, to relieve the suffering of all beings. In the concluding words of the OI ordination ceremony for transmitting the 14 Mindfulness Trainings, we hear the following call to action:

“Ordinees, you have received the Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings of the Order of Interbeing. You have taken the first step on the path of the Bodhisattvas: the path of great understanding of Bodhisattva Manjushri that puts an end to countless wrong perceptions, prejudice, and discrimination; the path of great compassion of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, who loves, values, and protects the life of all species and listens deeply to the cries of all species far and near in order to help them; the path of great action of Bodhisattva Samantabhadra, who takes every opportunity to create love, understanding, and harmony in the world.”

Personal Reflection:

🔹 What are my deepest aspirations for myself and the world? How am I acting in the larger world to realize my Bodhisattva vow, to apply the teachings and mindfulness trainings daily in my life?

🔹 How has my capacity for listening deeply to others growing? Am I becoming better able to be fully present with ease even when stress, conflict, anger, hurt, or suffering is present? More openhearted, compassionate and understanding toward myself and others? Less critical, judgmental, or blaming?

🔹 How is the practice of nonattachment to views affecting my relationships and interactions with others?

🔹 How is my attention shifting away from self-cherishing to fulfilling my vow to benefit others?

🔹 What opportunities for selfless service am I identifying and offering? How am I practicing from an increasing place of generosity in my commitment to benefit others?

🔹 How am I using my skills and talents in the service of sangha building and benefitting others? Am I growing in confidence and ease in doing so?