Master Minh Tuệ, born in 1981 in Hà Tĩnh, is a special person who has devoted his entire life to practicing the ascetic path of khổ hạnh đầu đà without belonging to any Buddhist organization. Beginning his journey in 2017, Master Minh Tuệ walked across Vietnam, living simply with one vegetarian meal a day and sewing his clothes from fabric he picked up along the road. He often stopped overnight in cemeteries or remote places, carrying the vow to pray for the happiness and peace of all beings.

What commands respect for Master Minh Tuệ is not only his perseverance but also his rare spirit of compassion and humility. Despite the hardships of the journey, Master Minh Tuệ accepted no excess help, only taking what was necessary to sustain his body. He constantly reminds those who accompany him that the path of practice is a personal journey, independent of any organization or fame.

His family, though not in contact with him since his ordination in 2015, still supports and wishes him strength on his spiritual journey. His father, Mr. Lê Xuân, shared that although he feels sympathy for his son’s hard life, the family respects this choice, believing that Master Minh Tuệ has found the true meaning of life.

However, the Vietnam Buddhist Church has confirmed that Master Minh Tuệ is not an official monk of their system. Nonetheless, this does not diminish the value of his practice and his message of life—that material wealth is just a means, and happiness comes from self-improvement.

The image of Master Minh Tuệ, with his simple appearance, noble aspirations, and resilient legs, has become an inspiration to many. He is a living proof that, in a society filled with turmoil, there are still shining examples of simplicity, compassion, and a spirit of service.

We pray that Master Minh Tuệ’s resolve remains strong, overcoming all challenges on his journey, carrying the light of true spiritual practice, and spreading the spirit of goodness throughout the country.

 Thích Minh Tuệ – Wikipedia 



Precious footage of Master: Own Nothing - Hà Văn Long

 

 

The documentary "Own Nothing" introduces the simple life journey and spiritual enlightenment of the monk Thích Minh Tuệ. The film explores the philosophy of letting go, minimalism, and inner freedom through beautiful imagery and sincere sharing.

Thích Minh Tuệ, a famous monk in Vietnam, embarked on a 6-year walking journey across Vietnam, spreading the compassionate teachings of Buddhism. His journey was not just a self-challenge but also an opportunity to connect with the community, helping others find peace and faith in life. He has become a symbol of perseverance and compassion, inspiring many in the community






The first book about Master: Hương Bay Ngược Gió: Bước Chân Tập Học Của Hành Giả Thích Minh Tuệ




I’ve transcribed video dialogues about Master Minh Tuệ, from audio-visual to written text, which now amounts to about twenty-seven videos. With a total length of over twenty hours, it took me over two hundred hours to complete this transcription work.

During this time, I realized that I admire Master Minh Tuệ not because he is a Buddhist monk but because I admire him as a person, as a contemporary individual of the same generation. He is a rare example of a free person, someone who freely chooses his way of life. He dislikes constraints—not only with his family, in keeping with the spirit of monastic life and maintaining equality in relationships, but also with any organization. Yet, he still adheres absolutely to the laws of life and the precepts of the Buddha, the religion he follows.

He is someone who says and does, consistently. He is courageous and compassionate. He has the ability to endure and withstand the greatest challenges. He does not know how to lie or deceive. He lives joyfully, optimistically, and always spreads positive energy.

Moreover, he is extremely humble. Humble and modest before the world, he refers to himself as "I". This is in stark contrast to the way people often live today: bowing down before food, flattering in pursuit of fame, bowing before power, isolating and bullying the weak, having no power in hand.

He is certainly not someone who seeks personal gain. He does not seek to establish his own empire due to admiration from the world. He vowed, much like a solemn oath: to live his life as a beggar, walking, with only three robes and one bowl, without disciples or followers, without a personal temple or shrine.

With these virtues alone, he is already a shining example for many—especially those who love freedom, justice, fairness, integrity, and a virtuous, peaceful, and free life.

I respect and praise Master Minh Tuệ for the reasons presented above, as well as for my readiness to respect and praise all examples, efforts, and struggles in life. As long as I breathe, I will distinguish between what is right, where to place my trust, and which path to follow.

The phrase "As long as I breathe, I will..." comes from an answer Master Minh Tuệ once gave.

"AS LONG AS I BREATHE, I WILL WALK AND BEG!"

Any errors in the transcription process, I ask readers for forgiveness and kindly suggest corrections for the next editions.

Sincerely,Saigon, July 24, 2024
Phạm Hiền Mây