Introduction to Bhikkhu Pannakara
Chien Le met the Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara in 2005 at the Texas Buddhist temple where Pannakara is now the deputy abbot. Pannakara’s determination has always impressed Le. As the secretary of the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center, Le notes, “When he decides to do something, he goes all the way.”
Leading the Walk for Peace
Earlier this year, Pannakara led the meditative Walk for Peace with monks worldwide and his rescue dog, Aloka. This 2,300-mile journey started on Oct. 26 in Fort Worth and concluded in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 14. Pannakara’s speeches on mindfulness attracted large crowds, both in person and online.
The Walk for Peace helped elevate Pannakara as a leading voice for unity, with his popularity continuing to grow. Comparisons have been made between him and figures like the Dalai Lama and Martin Luther King Jr.
Monastic Principles and Practices
Pannakara emphasizes raising awareness of peace and compassion. As a Theravada Buddhist, he adheres to “Vinaya,” avoiding social media and personal possessions. His practice includes celibacy, modesty, and sleeping sitting up.
Pannakara’s Background
Born in Vietnam in 1981, Pannakara immigrated to the U.S. in 1997. He studied information technology but left his engineering career to become a monk. Pannakara cites his teacher, Venerable Ratanaguna, as an inspiration.
His move away from professional life was driven by witnessing the struggles of those around him. Le remembers Pannakara’s family being initially upset about his decision to ordain.
In addition to his monastic work, Pannakara completed projects at their temple and studied meditation extensively in Myanmar.
Symbolic Pilgrimages
In 2022, Pannakara joined a 2,100-mile pilgrimage retracing Buddha’s steps through Nepal and India. The journey involved walking barefoot and became transformative, deepening Pannakara’s understanding and resilience.
Through this pilgrimage, Aloka, his dog, joined him and symbolized light.
Years before, Pannakara envisioned building stone stupas to preserve sacred teachings. With Ratanaguna’s blessing, the Dhammacetiya project was born, aiming to last 4,000 years.
Non-Political Approach
Bhikkhu Bodhi praised Pannakara for avoiding political topics during his walks, although he hopes Pannakara may address important social issues like poverty and climate in the future.
Ajahn Nisabho supported Pannakara’s choice to remain non-political, noting that it helped attract diverse participants.
The Associated Press religion coverage is supported by grants, ensuring the content remains unbiased.