Cultivating merits, virtue, and wisdom – Sweeping the floor of the monastery
Thích Nhất Hạnh, in his late twenties, published a memoir called “My Master’s Robe” which recounts his experiences as a young novice at Từ Hiếu Temple in Huế from 1942 to 1947.
In a passage from his book, Thích Nhất Hạnh remembers that when someone entered the monastery, they had to participate in physical work before being permitted to study the teachings.
It was important for them to understand that their daily chores were a crucial part of practicing Zen.
He practiced mindfulness by examining his actions, language, and thoughts while performing everyday activities such as walking, standing, sitting, or lying down.
He made an effort to have positive and wholesome thoughts during each movement, ensuring that his actions were aligned with right action.
For instance, when he woke up in the morning, he would think about the well-being and enlightenment of all beings in the world.
He experienced deep emotions when he recited those verses, sensing that both mindfulness and compassion were being nurtured within him.
Whether he was getting dressed, buttoning his clothes, tying strings, washing his hands and feet, cleaning his bowls, sweeping the floor, or using the bathroom – no matter what he was doing – there was a beautiful thought accompanying each action.
Many aspirants loved to sweep the floor thanks to the gatha:
“Sweeping the ground of the monastery diligently makes happiness and understanding arise.”
This phrase signifies that by diligently cleaning the temple premises, one can cultivate their merits, virtue, and wisdom.
