In a world often filled with noise and haste, a few simple words can bring clarity, peace, and direction. Jing Si Aphorisms, concise and profound sayings from Dharma Master Cheng Yen, offer practical wisdom for daily living, cultivating inner peace, and inspiring compassionate action.  

The term "Jing Si," meaning "still thoughts," embodies the idea of finding clarity through contemplation. Rooted in the Buddha’s teachings yet expressed in language everyone can understand, these aphorisms translate timeless Dharma into practical lessons for modern life. They transcend cultural and religious boundaries, serving as a moral compass for countless individuals worldwide, guiding them to transform themselves into living Bodhisattvas—individuals dedicated to helping others. 

From Humble Beginnings to Global Inspiration 

The story of Jing Si Aphorisms began in the late 1980s, born from Master Cheng Yen's daily teachings and dialogues with disciples and visitors at the Jing Si Abode. These simple, heartfelt exchanges were later compiled into Jing Si Aphorisms, Volume 1, which was formally published in 1989. Originally offered as a founding gift for Tzu Chi College of Nursing, the book quickly became a global source of inspiration. 

Over the decades, the aphorisms have seen remarkable growth and adaptation. By 2009, the 20th anniversary of their publication, they had been translated into 11 languages. Today, Jing Si Aphorisms are available in 23 national languages, including Chinese, English, Japanese, Hindu, Nepali, Portuguese, Spanish, French, and German, and are distributed worldwide. Through the dedicated efforts of Tzu Chi volunteers, these aphorisms have reached schools, businesses, government offices, hospitals, and even prisons, turning ordinary spaces into places of reflection and moral education. From bookmarks and children’s books to digital quote cards and social media, Jing Si Aphorisms continue to evolve, proving that simple truths never lose their relevance. 

The Essence of Jing Si Aphorisms 

At the heart of Jing Si Aphorisms are core values that promote a compassionate and ethical way of living. These include: 

• Loving-kindness, Compassion, Joy, and Equanimity: Encouraging the cultivation of a benevolent heart to bring joy and relieve suffering, fostering a loving society. 
• Living Buddhism: Transforming profound Buddhist principles into practical, actionable wisdom for everyday life. 
• Walking the Bodhisattva Path: Inspiring individuals to practice the spirit of a Bodhisattva—one who dedicates themselves to helping others—within their daily lives. 
• Gratitude, Respect, and Love: Emphasizing the importance of establishing harmonious and ethical relationships. 
• Environmental Protection: Advocating for the care of the Earth, the wise use of resources, and vegetarianism to protect all life. 
• Purifying Education: Highlighting the role of education in uplifting character and purifying the human heart. 

These principles are not abstract ideals but practical guidelines that empower individuals to make positive choices and contribute to a more harmonious world. 

Profound Transformations: Wisdom Reaching Beyond Walls 

Jing Si Aphorisms are catalysts for profound personal transformation, inspiring individuals to embody compassion in tangible ways, even in the most challenging circumstances. 

The belief that "people can spread the teachings but should not use them to promote themselves," drives global Tzu Chi volunteers to actively share Jing Si Aphorisms through initiatives like "Jing Si Aphorisms in Prisons." In the United States, this project, conducted with Chuang Yen Monastery’s Prisoner Buddhist Correspondence Course Program, has distributed thousands of books to inmates across 46 states, helping them rediscover purpose and peace. 

In Las Vegas, where aphorisms have become the most borrowed books in some facilities, inmates share profound transformations. Crystal, initially attending a Dharma class just to leave her cell, realized, "If I am willing to change my mindset, life's difficulties can change!" 

The aphorisms have also mended broken relationships. One couple facing a marital crisis due to infidelity found reconciliation after both read Jing Si Aphorisms. The wife, inspired by the teachings, chose forgiveness, while the husband reflected deeply on his actions, realizing his mistake. Even the third party, moved by the wife's compassion, chose to step away, leading to the couple's renewed commitment and gratitude.  

The reach of Jing Si Aphorisms also extends to travelers. Through the "Jing Si Aphorisms in Hotels" initiative, these inspiring words have been placed in 864 hotels in the USA and many other countries, offering guests uplifting thoughts to begin or end their day. 

Cultivating Kindness: Aphorisms in Daily Life and Education 

Jing Si Aphorisms have a profound impact on family dynamics, educational settings, and community interactions, fostering kindness and moral growth in everyday life.  

In Türkiye, Tzu Chi established El Menahil International School in 2015 to provide Syrian refugee children with access to education, restoring hope in an area often described as an educational desert. Here, students create touching artworks that blend the wisdom of Jing Si Aphorisms with Quranic teachings. These colorful, hope-filled pieces, showcased in exhibitions like the "Spring of Hope," are a testament to the strength of the human spirit, transforming experiences of war and displacement into expressions of courage and peace. As Dharma Master Cheng Yen said, "Do not let the seeds of hatred grow in children who are still fleeing. Instead, plant seeds of love and gratitude in their hearts." This philosophy guides the school, nurturing emotional stability and positivity, allowing children who once bore the weight of war to now carry dreams of brighter futures. 

In Bodh Gaya, India, Tzu Chi volunteers bring Jing Si Aphorisms to residential schools for orphans and children from impoverished families. Here, students often learn in challenging conditions, sitting on wooden planks that double as beds. Yet, despite these circumstances, children eagerly learn aphorisms in Hindi and Chinese and embrace initiatives like the "Bamboo Bank Era." Inspired by the aphorism "Save up money on snacks and you can help the poor," children enthusiastically donate their few rupees. Principal Ramji Manjhi of Senari Samaj Seva Ball Jagrup School observed, "Since you came and introduced new approaches, the children find it easier to understand, and their learning attitudes have become more positive."

Beyond formal education, these teachings reach into communities. In Lumbini, Nepal, Tzu Chi volunteers engage local shopkeepers in a "Good Words Along Street" initiative. Mithun Shrestha, chairman of the local hotel association, eagerly displayed aphorism posters and sought more for his wife's new shop. Even a banker, inspired by an aphorism in his father's shop, invited volunteers to share the wisdom at his bank, creating a ripple effect of kindness.

A Global Tapestry of Wisdom 

Jing Si Aphorisms have woven themselves into a global tapestry of wisdom, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. In each culture, the words take on new life while preserving their original spirit of compassion and mindfulness. In an age where information moves fast but understanding feels fleeting, these teachings remind us to slow down, reflect, and live with sincerity.  

Jing Si Aphorisms continue to be a powerful source of inspiration, fostering inner transformation and encouraging individuals to contribute positively to society. Their enduring simplicity belies their profound capacity to cultivate a sense of shared humanity and guide people towards a more compassionate and harmonious world.