Noble Silence

A period of deep silence is observed starting from the end of the evening activity until after breakfast the next morning. This is very healing. We allow the silence and the calmness to penetrate our flesh and bones. We allow the energy of the sangha and its mindfulness to penetrate our body and mind. We go back to our tents or dormitories slowly, aware of every step. We breathe deeply and enjoy the stillness and the freshness. Let us not talk to the person walking by our side; she or he needs our support too. If we wish, we can stay outside, alone with the trees and the stars for a short while. We then go inside to use the bathroom, change, and go to bed right away.

This silence is not a dull or heavy silence but a lively, dynamic silence, called Noble Silence, which is essential to the environment of practice. Noble Silence creates an energy of transformation and healing. We should actively contribute to the quality of the community’s practice in this way.