Guo Yuan Fashi

Pine Bush, NY

Born in Vietnam to a Chinese Buddhist family, Guo Yuan Fashi never imagined he would one day become a Chan Buddhist monk and internationally respected meditation teacher. Although his mother introduced him to temples as a child, it wasn’t until years later—after relocating to Canada following the Vietnam War—that he began searching for something deeper than material success. That search ultimately led him to Chan meditation, ordination under the renowned Chan Master Sheng Yen, and a lifetime devoted to preserving and sharing the Dharma.

In this intimate conversation, Guo Yuan Fashi explains that genuine Buddhist practice is found not only on the meditation cushion but in the smallest moments of everyday life. Whether sweeping the meditation hall, eating a meal, or quietly observing the mind, each activity becomes an opportunity to cultivate awareness, compassion, and wisdom. His teacher’s greatest lessons were rarely delivered through lectures, but through ordinary actions that revealed the profound nature of mindfulness.

Experience

30 Plus Years

Tradition

Mahayana

Background

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Gou Yuan Fa Shi, born in Vietnam to a Chinese family, recounts a spiritual journey shaped by his mother’s devotion to Buddhism. Despite a playful childhood in temples, he didn’t delve deeply into Buddhism until adulthood. Amidst the Vietnam War, his family moved to Canada, where he felt a sense of freedom and studied, but a void lingered.

Inspiration struck when his elder brother, engaged in Buddhist practice, returned from a retreat led by a teacher named Mrs. Union. Intrigued, Gou attended a retreat in New York, led by Mrs. Union. Her teachings profoundly impacted him, emphasizing a modern interpretation of Buddhism. Encouraged by his brother, Gou eventually joined a monastery.

Life as a monk presented challenges, and he struggled during the absence of his teacher. Yet, through various teachings and interactions, Gou learned valuable lessons on mindfulness, humility, and inner reflection. His teacher’s humorous yet profound approach guided him in becoming a mindful leader.

After the teacher’s passing in 2009, Gou continued spreading Buddhist teachings globally. He faced challenges finding a suitable retreat center but eventually established the Dharma Drum Retreat Center, aiming to serve English-speaking individuals. Gou’s journey reflects a continuous pursuit of spiritual growth, guided by his teacher’s wisdom and compassionate teachings.