One-day retreat at Dong Cao Pagoda, Thanh Hoa.

On this special occasion, Reverend Thich Tam Hung, on behalf of the organizing board, has shared with the attending Buddhists a Dharma talk on “Fourteen teachings of Buddha and their meanings”.

1. The worst enemy is the self

2. The worst ignorance is deceit.

3. The worst failure is arrogance.

4. The worst tragedy is jealousy.

5. The worst mistake is self-losing.

6. The worst sin is filial impiety.

7. The worst pity is self-depreciation.

8. The greatest pride is rising after being fallen.

9. The greatest bankruptcy is despair.

10. The greatest assets are health and wisdom

11. The greatest debt is affection.

12. The greatest gift is benevolence.

13. The greatest weakness is ignorance

14. The greatest consolation is offering.

For two hours, theReverend has provided the lay Buddhists with comprehensive information on the origins and significance of Buddha’s teachings. On the inclusive Dharma talk, participants were reminded to practice the fourteen precepts of Buddha to have a better inner life. After the lecture, practicing activities for Buddhists took place as usual.

In the afternoon, the Reverend and Buddhists witnessed the groundbreaking ceremonies of such two constructions as a provisional library where studies on Buddha’s precepts could be conducted, and a guesthouse where Buddhists can rest during their retreat at the pagoda.

The retreat ended with every Buddhist’s receiving a present from the organizing board, a VCD of Venerable Sen. Thich Chan Tinh’s Dharma Talk on the topic “From Illness to Cure”.