The Diligent One Among the Sangha

**Summary:** Upon hearing the Buddha was soon to enter nirvana, the monk Tissa dedicated himself wholly to practice, was misunderstood as eccentric, but was praised by the Buddha for his true diligence.

In the Jeta Grove, beneath an ancient tree, the afternoon air was strangely serene. Golden sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting patches of light on the grassy ground. The monks were gathered around the Buddha, their hearts heavy with the news: in just four more months, the Tathagata would enter nirvana. Everyone felt a deep sorrow and sense of loss. But one figure sat apart in a far corner, speaking to no one, his eyes cast downward, hands clenched tight. It was the monk Tissa.

Hearing the Buddha was about to pass, Tissa was overwhelmed with shock. He had not yet attained enlightenment, remained an ordinary person still shrouded in ignorance. He thought: "I have followed the Buddha for so many years, yet I have achieved nothing. Now, as the Buddha is about to pass into parinirvana, I will be left adrift in the stream of life, without a refuge." Fear and regret surged within him. From that moment, Tissa changed completely. He withdrew from his companions, spoke to no one, and quietly devoted himself to sitting in meditation, walking mindfully, and contemplating the impermanence of the body. Day after day, he tried to pour all his mental energy into his practice, not letting a single moment pass in vain.

Seeing Tissa's strange behavior, many monks began to talk. Some said, "Tissa used to be so cheerful. Why is he now so silent and distant? Surely he is arrogant, thinking himself better than others." Another wondered, "The Buddha is still here, yet he does not attend to him, just keeps to himself. It is truly hard to understand." The whispers spread, adding to Tissa's pressure. But he did not explain, only silently endured, knowing that time was running out.

One day, the Buddha called the monks together. He looked around and spoke with compassion, "Venerables, do not misunderstand Tissa. He is not being arrogant, nor is he acting strangely. Tissa is exerting great diligence in his practice because he knows he will soon be separated from the Tathagata and has not yet attained the path. Such a person truly honors and cherishes the Tathagata." He paused, then recited a verse: "Having tasted the flavor of seclusion, having enjoyed the taste of serene peace, free from evil and fear, that person attains the joy of the Dharma."

Hearing this, the monks suddenly understood. They looked at Tissa with eyes of admiration. As for Tissa, when he heard the Buddha's praise, a wave of emotion rose in his heart. He knelt down, tears rolling down his cheeks, silently vowing to be even more diligent so as not to fail the World-Honored One. From then on, he continued his unceasing practice, no longer disturbed by anyone. Though we do not know if he attained the path, his true diligence was certified by the Buddha.

**The Meaning of the Story**

The story of the monk Tissa teaches us that true diligence is not for showing off or making an impression on others. A correct practitioner is one who clearly knows their goal, works quietly, and pays no heed to public opinion. At the same time, we must be cautious: diligence is only one factor and must be combined with blessings from merit and wisdom. Otherwise, it is easy to fall into error, causing anxiety for oneself and one's family.

Compiled from a Dharma talk by Venerable Thích Chân Quang