Be Still and Know: Reflections from Living Buddha, Living Christ

by Thich Nhat Hanh

In his acclaimed national bestseller, Living Buddha, Living Christ , renowned thinker and scholar Thich Nhat Hanh explored the deep connections between Christianity and Buddhism. Be Still and Know uses selections from his groundbreaking work to create a handbook of meditations and reflections that reawaken our understanding of both religions--and enrich our daily lives through personal contemplation. It is an inspiration to all who embrace its universal message of peace--a profound and moving work that illuminates the world's greatest traditions of spiritual thought, written by a man who is considered by many to be a "living Buddha."

Genres: Spirituality, Buddhism, Religion, Philosophy

96 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1987

About the author

Thích Nhất Hạnh was a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, teacher, author, poet and peace activist who then lived in southwest France where he was in exile for many years. Born Nguyễn Xuân Bảo, Thích Nhất Hạnh joined a Zen (Vietnamese: Thiền) monastery at the age of 16, and studied Buddhism as a novitiate. Upon his ordination as a monk in 1949, he assumed the Dharma name Thích Nhất Hạnh. Thích is an honorary family name used by all Vietnamese monks and nuns, meaning that they are part of the Shakya (Shakyamuni Buddha) clan. He was often considered the most influential living figure in the lineage of Lâm Tế (Vietnamese Rinzai) Thiền, and perhaps also in Zen Buddhism as a whole.

Reviews

[Magdy Shonoda]

It was recommended to me by a wonderful Yoga teacher I met in a recent vacation.
Regardless of my current beliefs and ideas, I enjoyed the book. I have much respect for Thích Nhất Hạnh teachings and message.
I prefer not to rate the book.

“Our true home is in the present moment. To live in the present moment is a miracle. The miracle is not to walk on water. The miracle is to walk on the green Earth in the present moment, to appreciate the peace and beauty that are available now. Peace is all around us -in the world and in nature- and within us -in our bodies and our spirits. Once we learn to touch this peace, we will be healed and transformed. It is not a matter of faith; it is a matter of practice.” - Thich Nhat Hanh

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Be Still and Know: A Pathway to Peace" by Thich Nhat Hanh is a gem of a book, deserving every bit of its 5 out of 5 stars rating. In this beautifully crafted work, Hanh effortlessly blends the wisdom of Buddhism and Christianity, offering readers a profound yet accessible guide to finding peace in the present moment.

What sets this book apart is its profound simplicity. Hanh's writing style is gentle and clear, making complex spiritual concepts easy to grasp for readers of all backgrounds. His focus on present-moment awareness serves as a powerful reminder to savor the beauty of each moment, leading to a deeper appreciation of life's wonders.

Moreover, "Be Still and Know" transcends religious boundaries, offering inspiration to readers of any faith or none at all. By highlighting the commonalities between Buddhism and Christianity, Hanh promotes a message of unity and understanding that is much needed in today's world.

But perhaps the most compelling aspect of this book is its practical applications. Hanh not only shares spiritual insights but also provides tangible ways to incorporate mindfulness into everyday life. From managing stress to improving focus, the wisdom contained within these pages offers invaluable guidance for anyone seeking a more peaceful existence.

In essence, "Be Still and Know" is not just a book – it's a pathway to inner peace and spiritual growth. Hanh's gentle guidance will resonate with readers long after they've finished reading, making this book a timeless companion on the journey towards tranquility and joy.

[Arifa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Favorite Excerpt:

Wittgenstein said, “Concerning that which cannot be talked about, we should not say anything.” Theologians spend a lot of time, ink, and breath talking about God. This is talking about what we should not talk about.
A good theologian says almost nothing about God. The notion of God can keep you from touching God as love, wisdom, and nonfear.

[Aaron White · Rating 4 out of 5]

small selections from Hanh’s larger work, these are little gems that connect the contemplations of Buddhists and mystical Christians. There are differences between the two faiths, and those differences matter, but there are also significant areas of interlap. These are what Hanh draws out, particularly in the area of not knowing (the via negativa), compassion, and the presence of God in us.

[Tammie Anne (Literary.Existentialism) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Simple, yet profound. Thich Nhat Hanh shares his wisdom on the similarities between Christianity and Buddhism.

Personally, I didn’t get as much out of this book as I did his other works. However, I still think it’s worth a read.

[Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very short, but well worth the read. Many good things to think about, and new insights. Opens your mind. I love Thich Nhat Hanh.

[Denise · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very quick read. I think the full book is better. This is OK for a quick touchup but I really didn’t need it.

[Machel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book many moons ago and am rereading again. A gift from my Guruji in 1997.
Jewels of deep wisdom.

[Walter · Rating 5 out of 5]

A helpful distillation of some of the key insights in its source, the incredible Living Buddha, Living Christ. A great way to refresh one's memory of the longer work or to whet one's appetite in anticipation of it....

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finished this easy read on a flight from California to Texas. A great book on the similarities between Budda and Christ. On being present and mindful. Bottom line, be open to all ideas. I really liked this!

[Jenava · Rating 4 out of 5]

I Know, I read the most random books...but this random one is very interesting, one I think I will like a lot...

[Shari]

Living Buddha, Living Christ by Thich Nhat Hanh (1997)

[Linda Marazoni]

Saw on Oprah

[Jack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it, a very quick and light read. Wish it were a longer read.

[Austin Wright · Rating 3 out of 5]

Standard.

[Muthuanand · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short read. Be still and know, is about the same. The author has the knack to write wonderful insights.