Thich Nhat Hanh’s Model of Socially Engaged Buddhism for World Peace

Abstract

This article examines the model of Socially Engaged Buddhism developed by Most Venerable Thich Nhat Hanh as a Buddhist approach to promoting world peace. The study has three objectives: to investigate the concepts and theories of Socially Engaged Buddhism, to analyze peace theories and Buddhist peaceful means that support this approach, and to propose a model of Socially Engaged Buddhism for contemporary peacebuilding. Using a qualitative research design, the study draws on documentary research and textual and thematic analyses of Thich Nhat Hanh’s writings, relevant Buddhist scriptures, and scholarly works on engaged Buddhism, peace studies, mindfulness, and nonviolence. It also incorporates insights from interviews with Buddhist scholars, peace practitioners, mindfulness practitioners, and disciples familiar with Thich Nhat Hanh’s tradition.

The findings show that social engagement is not external to Buddhism but is grounded in core Buddhist principles such as compassion, wisdom, non-harming, interdependence, and the bodhisattva ideal. Although Theravāda and Mahāyāna traditions articulate social responsibility in different ways, both provide doctrinal resources for responding to suffering in society. Thich Nhat Hanh’s contribution lies in transforming these foundations into a practical peacebuilding model centered on interbeing, sangha-building, the Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings, mindful daily living, nonviolent action, deep listening, and compassionate communication. The proposed model demonstrates a movement from inner transformation to ethical action, from personal mindfulness to collective healing, and from reconciliation to sustainable peace. The article contributes to Buddhist studies and peace studies by clarifying how Socially Engaged Buddhism can function not merely as a spiritual philosophy but as a practical framework for addressing conflict, violence, and social fragmentation in the modern world.