Still Thoughts

The contents of Master Cheng Yen's daily talks were recorded and sorted into succinct quotations by two groups of disciples who constantly accompanied her. These quotations became known as "Still Thoughts." Before becoming a nun and while engaging in spiritual cultivation at a temple in Taitung, Master Cheng Yen called herself Ching Szu ("Still Thoughts"). The place where she now resides is also named the Abode of Still Thoughts.

In 1989, great virtuous personalities in the cultural world categorized the quotations based on their contents and compiled them into a book that was again entitled Still Thoughts. It became a best-seller, with over one hundred thousand copies sold. In 1992, the Tzu Chi Cultural Publishing Company compiled the second volume of Still Thoughts and translated these quotations into a simplified Chinese edition and an English edition for worldwide distribution.

Because "Still Thoughts" are quotations taken from live events, each and every phrase feels natural. The words contain deep meaning and pure sincerity. It is like The Analects of Confucius: "The longer it is studied, the more lasting and profound is its essence" (from the writings of Cheng Yi). This book has become the precious "bible" by which Tzu Chi people abide in their speech and conduct.

Bring Still Thoughts teachings to North America