Thich Minh Tue’s Ascetic Pilgrimage Captivates Vietnam
Thich Minh Tue, born Le Anh Tu, has gained a significant following in Vietnam through his ascetic pilgrimage across the country.
A 43-year-old from central Vietnam, Tue has been walking since 2017, dedicating his journey to practicing Buddhist teachings and asceticism.
Though he started his journey using buses occasionally, since 2020, he has traveled solely on foot, except when crossing waterways.
Tue clarified that he is not a monk nor affiliated with the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, but a practitioner of Buddhism who embraces hardship to attain enlightenment.
He wears clothing stitched from roadside rags, eats one meal a day, and relies on natural sources for bathing.
His pilgrimage, he says, is a personal journey of self-completion through the Buddha’s teachings.
Thich Minh Tue’s popularity has surged, attracting people to join his journey.
Although he does not consider them disciples, he welcomes their company, asking only that they obtain family approval.
Thanh Do, a Buddhism scholar, attributes Tue’s appeal to his adherence to Buddhist precepts, which cultivates determination and wisdom, inspiring lay followers.
Despite not having contact with his family for six years, Tue expresses gratitude for their support.
His father, Le Xuan, noted the family’s initial reluctance but ultimately supported his son’s decision to pursue this path, learning of his progress through media reports.
Tue’s journey continues to inspire many, emphasizing inner peace and happiness.
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Thich Minh Tue recently halted his journey following safety concerns and the death of a follower.
His decision to pause came after incidents of heatstroke and traffic disruptions caused by large crowds.
Tue’s case sparked debates on social media and drew scrutiny from human rights groups advocating for religious freedom in Vietnam.
Despite the controversy, Tue remains committed to his spiritual path and has expressed a desire to resume his pilgrimage under less chaotic conditions, supported by calls for government respect of his religious pursuits.