Nalanda youths (Front left) Bro. Disheng and (Right) Bro. Ajita led the congregation in chanting.

On Sunday 27 July, Sis. Tan Yee Yong delivered a Dhamma Talk on “Harmonious Speech” based on the teachings of the Buddha.  This topic was a fitting one because it happened to be ‘Samaggi Day’ (‘unity and concord’ observance day), which falls on the last Sunday of every month.

Sis. Tan Yee Yong explained that ‘Right Speech’ promotes harmony, concord and peace in the family, workplace and society.  She quoted a few discourses where the Buddha explained the attributes of ‘Right Speech’.

Sis. Tan Yee Yong quoting a few examples of ‘Right Speech’ as taught by the Buddha.

In the ‘Abhayarājakumāra Sutta’ (Majjhima Nikāya No. 58), Buddha advised us to consider whether our speech is: (1) true; (2) beneficial; (3) pleasing to others; and (4) uttered at the appropriate time.  Even if the statement is true and beneficial, we still need to say it at a suitable time.  In the ‘Kakacūpama Sutta’ (Majjhima Nikāya No. 21), the Buddha also taught that ‘Right Speech’ must be connected with loving-kindness, and not with a hating heart.

Devotees were delighted to learn many practical ways to cultivate ‘Right Speech’ last Sunday.  We thank Sis. Tan Yee Yong for her wonderful sharing.  Sadhu anumodana!