Noble Silence

There are many types of silence. Oppressive silence is unpleasant. It is created, for example, when two persons refuse to talk to each other after a quarrel. Similarly, arrogant silence, which arises when others provoke us, can make us suffer. Noble Silence, on the other hand, can be very powerful and nourishing. It is a silence which is pleasant, peaceful, healing and beautiful. It's a silence that is alive.

 

All of us have the capacity to create Noble Silence. When we eat, sit, walk or wash dishes mindfully in a peaceful and relaxing way, without chatting, we create Noble Silence. Noble Silence is especially felt when everyone appreciate its presence and take effort not to break it. 

 

Noble Silence is about our state of mind. When we are alone and have no one to chat to, it does not necessarily mean that there is Noble Silence. This is because we can have mental chatter in our mind. Conversely, when we are with someone, it does not necessarily mean that Noble Silence cannot arise. If everyone maintain silence in their heart and mind by focusing on breathing in and out in a common activity such as walking, not only will Noble Silence be present, it will also be deeply felt and enjoyed tremendously.

Source: Teachings by Thay at Plum Village in Jul 2009