“A Tale of Karma”: A Special Aulacese (Vietnamese) Modern Folk Opera Adaptation of Supreme Master Ching Hai’s Poem “Words of A Piglet” (In Aulacese)
Today’s Enlightening
Entertainment
will be presented in
Aulacese (Vietnamese),
with subtitles in Arabic,
Chinese, English,
French, German,
Hungarian, Indonesian,
Japanese, Korean, Malay,
Mongolian,Persian,
Portuguese, Russian,
Spanish, and Thai.
In Aulacese (Vietnamese) culture, cải lương (modern folk opera) is a popular theater art that dates back about three centuries, when the flourishing South was a new land. Among those who settled in the South at that time were musicians from the royal palace in the ancient capital Huế. Since then, the kind of ceremonial music often heard in the palace became more widely known among the populace.
Eventually, new songs were composed. Many amateur musical groups were formed, adopting music and song as a form of elegant entertainment. From about 1912 to 1915, the artists of these musical groups began to combine gestures to their songs. Since then, a new genre called ca ra bộ was born. Performers conversed; sometimes a song would be used as dialogue. Ca ra bộ continued to develop to create the theatrical art that is now called modern folk opera.
The orchestra for Aulacese modern folk opera usually consists of the six-string guitar, the moon lute, the pear-shaped lute, two-string fiddle, sixteen-string zither, and monochord zither. The themes of Aulacese modern folk opera highlight humanitarian and moral values. The dialogues are profound, the song lyrics and tunes are rhythmic and rich in melody. These are some of the reasons cải lương (modern folk opera) has an enduring place in the hearts of the Aulacese people.
In the Lunar New Year 2007, during an outdoor gathering with our Association members in Formosa (Taiwan), Supreme Master Ching Hai was moved to spontaneously sing a folk opera song “Spiritual Practice is a Source of Blessing” written by Mr. Viễn Châu, which she knew by heart since her youth. We now invite you to listen to an excerpt of this folk opera song through the voice of Supreme Master Ching Hai.
Kneeling down, she sobs in the main hall of worship
As the temple bell sounds the hour of prayer
O young devotee, why do you wish to be a nun?
Finding comfort in the scriptures, and acquainting yourself with spiritual practice?
But how can you achieve enlightenment when earthly traces are still evident on your seasoned countenance?
Are you rid of worldly debt or are still entangled?
Did you renounce the world because glory and fame have lost their appeal and life seems like an abyss?
Or was it because of a fleeting moment of jealousy and distress that you intend to hide yourself behind the temple’s gate to bury your grief and forget your sorrow?
On Enlightening Entertainment, Supreme Master Television is pleased to introduce different forms of arts from Âu Lạc (Vietnam), as well as from other countries in the world, in order to share the beauty and cultures of the peoples on our planet.
Respected viewers, this week and next week, we are honored to present the world premiere of the Aulacese (Vietnamese) modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution),” specially based on the poem “Words of a Piglet” written by Supreme Master Ching Hai in her late 20s, through the adaptation of musician Thái An and playwright Hoàng Song Việt.
A vegetarian since her youth, Supreme Master Ching Hai highly values the life of all beings, be they family pets or birds in the wild, humble tiny insects or powerful animals like elephants, bears and others who unfortunately have been captured for human entertainment. Supreme Master Ching Hai has always felt much sorrow for the plight of animals facing heartless treatments.
Therefore, since her youth, she has written poems reflecting sentiments of our animal co-habitants, such as “A Puppy’s Heart,” “Words of a Hen,” and “Words of a Piglet.” Furthermore, Supreme Master Ching Hai is also the author of three #1 international bestsellers. “The Dogs in My Life,” “The Birds in My Life,” and “The Noble Wilds,” originally written in English, have been translated into several languages such as Aulacese (Vietnamese), Polish, Korean, German, Mongolian, Indonesian, Russian, Japanese, French, Spanish, and Chinese.
Her dedicated efforts are reminders to human beings of the noble qualities and love of our animal friends, who always sacrifice themselves, offer loyalty and forgiveness, and bring wonderful gifts into our lives. Unfortunately, the current fate of our animal friends on Earth is full of miseries. Every year, 140 billion animal co-habitants are killed to supply the meat, egg and dairy industries all over the world.
In the United States alone, more than 100 million pig friends are slaughtered each year. That is not to mention the millions of animal friends being killed in laboratories every year; millions of dogs and cats killed in shelters for stray animals; and many animal friends who die from being tortured for “entertainment” in the circus, bull fighting, cock fighting, horse racing, dog racing, and so on.
In past decades, during her lectures around the world Supreme Master Ching Hai has always advised Earth citizens to return to the path of love and to stop the killing. In recent years, due to the urgency of climate change, she has compassionately responded to requests to speak in many videoconferences and answer questions from the public about the most effective solution for now and the future.
Her message, simple yet profound and accurate in every aspect, from science, economy, health, to spirituality, has become a slogan enthusiastically supported by distinguished organizations and individuals in society including scientists, government officials, medical professionals, artists, athletes, and celebrities: “Be veg, go green, save the planet.”
Durng the launch of the Aulacese (Vietnamese) edition of “The Birds in My Life” in Pathumthani, Thailand on October 11, 2008, Supreme Master Ching Hai, as author and guest of honor, addressed via videoconference questions from the audience including Aulacese scientists, physicians, professors, and artists about the importance of animal friends on Earth.
Because these helpless animals, they don’t do anything to harm us, but only bring joy to beautify the life of humanity. To take it a step further, they also show us unconditional love.
One should not commit acts of cruelty, like confining animals in such anguishing and miserable conditions. But humans haven’t yet understood, thus, they continue to do those things. So, we hope that one day the whole world will awaken and love and care for one another, including all the innocent animals so that Heaven and Earth have mercy on us and spare our lives, as well as the lives of our children, so that the planet can survive for everyone to enjoy. Indeed, saving the planet is considered humanity’s top priority today.
In early June 2010, the United Nations Environment Program called upon the world to switch to a vegan diet to save the Earth. Mr. Achim Steiner, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program, explained the disastrous consequences of livestock farming. He said,
“Two broad areas are currently having a disproportionately high impact on people and the planet’s life support systems - these are energy in the form of fossil fuels and agriculture, especially the raising of livestock for meat and dairy products.” In the report titled “Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Production and Consumption,” researchers clearly stated,
“A substantial reduction of impacts would only be possible with a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products.” The fact that a United Nations agency urgently requests humankind to implement “a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products” reflects the ultimate goal of saving this planet from self destruction.
Right from the beginning, animals were never meant to be food for humans. In addition, animals also have their own thoughts and overflowing feelings. Please now join us to listen to heartfelt sentiments of an animal friend very close in our lives through the verses of Supreme Master Ching Hai in the poem “Words of a Piglet.”
The day I met you first Was the day of my birth Pink and round, me oh so plump With Mom I gaily frolicked.
Lovingly you looked at me Praising, “Oh, so round, what a cutie!” Every day you came by to visit Bringing cool water and delicious veggie treats.
Mommy and I were so touched Your kindness worth more than gold I lived a peaceful life Under your care and protection Growing more plump with each passing day Just eat, rest and play…
So lovely was this early morn As clouds were drifting across the sky Cuddling together, Mommy and I Unaware of the befalling tragedy!
Two brawny young men Strong like tigers and elephants Squashed my tiny body Flat into a cage of horror! There was no way to escape! O God, what purgatory was this?
I wailed in fear and terror Mom, oh Mom, please save me! Oh caretaker, please come protect me quickly! Rescue my life, I’m still at a tender age!
Mom was crying out in sorrow Tears of desperation filling her eyes The immense Heavens cannot contain This horrendous emotional pain!
My caretaker turned away Hands busy counting a stack of money Haplessly I rolled around in the car trunk Breaking heart more painful than bodily misery!
The two young men bantered: “This piglet will be so tasty! Tomorrow we’ll slaughter him To celebrate the birth of the wife’s newborn baby!!”
Oh, how ironic this life My soul is shattered Tears flow in my heart Like blood running in rivulets.
I thought you loved me Nurturing me to maturity But all this was a sham For you, it’s just profit and gain!
Tomorrow my body will be cut to pieces My flesh and bones turned to sheer torture Just so people can laugh in merriment At their happy feast and gathering.
To your children and others’ too I wish them all long lives So the family can stay together Not endure the same fate as mine…
I pray the whole family lives nobly To be human in many lifetimes And never be reborn as pigs Paying forever karmic debts!
Alas, good-bye life… I ache for my gentle suffering mother In tears I am overcome… Oh, Mommy! Mom…Mom…
You have listened to the poem “Words of a Piglet,” written by Supreme Master Ching Hai in her late 20s. These moving verses have been adapted into an Aulacese (Vietnamese) modern folk opera titled “A Tale of Karma (Retribution)” by musician Thái An and playwright Hoàng Song Việt, and directed by Mr. Lê Lộc.
This opera will be presented in two parts and performed by Outstanding Artist Mr. Tấn Giao as Nam, Ms. Như Quỳnh as Giao, Mr. Tiểu Bảo Quốc as Tự, Ms. Thy Phương as Gia, Mr. Hữu Tài as the Elder Fairy, Ms. Hồng Thủy as the Mother Pig, and Ms. Yến Nhung as the Pig Caretaker.
Thái An is a famous composer who has written and arranged music for over 3,000 modern folk operas, feature films, and plays. He was born in Kiên Giang, southern Âu Lạc, and is a vegetarian. Regarding the modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution),” Mr. Thái An said: “I had the inspiration to write the opera after reading the poem ‘Words of a Piglet’ by Supreme Master Ching Hai. Through this opera, I would like to offer viewers a message: Let us love and protect all species.”
Collaborating with musician Thái An in the modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution)” is Mr. Hoàng Song Việt, a noted playwright who has won gold medals in festivals for stage performances with such operas as “Dragon and Phoenix,” “The Tale of Kim, Vân and Kiều,” “A Companionless Tree,” “Spirit of Jeweled Poetry,” and “Not Sand and Dust.” At present, playwright Hoàng Song Việt has adapted and composed more than 20 operas, garnering many awards. His operas have brought glory to many young artists.
Lê Lộc is one of Âu Lạc’s leading directors. Graduated from the College of Literature, majoring in linguistics and literature in 1985, he has directed hundreds of works of art including Aulacese modern folk operas, movies, modern music, and traditional songs of nostalgia (vọng cổ).
Director Lê Lộc shares his thoughts about the modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution)”: “In a busy society full of worries about money and earning a living, this is an opera which conveys a very good moral education; it recommends that people be vegetarian and virtuous, loving one another. This opera should be promoted widely so everyone can see.”
Thank you for your company on today’s Enlightening Entertainment. Please stay tuned to Supreme Master Television. Up next is Words of Wisdom. May your life be filled with joy and divine grace. Farewell for now.
Oh joy, a farmer’s life is poor but happy! To the orchard in the morning, then the paddy in the afternoon. A farmer’s life is carefree and peaceful, even with just rice, vegetables and pickles. Roaming leisurely on the river – what could be a better bliss?
Oh Heaven and Earth! Woe is my foot! O Giao! O wife!
Honey, you’re back? How are you, love? Would you like some fresh tea I just made?
What for! I just stepped on the pig’s manure again! Why don’t you tie it in the back? What for are you letting him wander in the yard? Let him go, sweetheart, so you don’t have to clean the house and take care of him all day.
Honey, you’re talking strange! It’s fine if we didn’t choose to raise him, but since we did, we must take care of him, and he’ll also keep us company in this remote forest.
I don’t need him to entertain me. You and I have been together for a few years. Even though we’re childless and the house is empty, but there’s a warmth of love and affection. Our simple meals come from collecting firewood and cultivating corns and potatoes, but our married life is harmonious.
Understanding your loneliness, Heaven gave us a piglet to care for and keep us company. I also feel happy to have an animal companion in our home.
I already told you many times. I don’t need him to be my friend. I’m happy already with your company. You bring this bothersome thing home and one day... I’ll leave for good to let you stay with him for the rest of your life.
How could you say that? You’re my husband. We’re always together in good and bad times. He’s just a piglet getting lost in the deep forest.
You stubbornly argue with me no matter what I say. Since the day you carried this piglet home, at night I’ve been losing my sleep. During the day, he rummages the house from front to back. He runs freely as if it’s an uninhabited place. From every nook and cranny all the way to the veranda, he leaves nothing untouched. I’ve told you again and again that he’s an animal, but you keep carrying him in your arms. Even at night, you hold him like your child. I’m really sad!
We’re dirt poor and have no neighbors. So there’s no fear of disturbing anyone. From dawn to dusk, we receive no visitors, so why should you worry that we live with a pig?
But I’m so annoyed, because the pig irritates my eyes. I’ll tie him up later and give him to a friend.
O honey, since I followed you here to live together in a thatched hut by the deep forest amid the whistling mountain wind and far-stretching mist, my life is indescribably sadder than that of a wild animal. I cultivate potatoes in the morning and gather dried firewood by the foothill in the afternoon.
I carry them with my hands and shoulders to the market to earn a little money, then return to the wild forest. I care for my husband, without dreaming of a rich life. Our meals are just cold rice and salted cabbage, but our married bond is warm. Though enduring much hardship, I never regret. Poor as we are, I’m happy that we’ve never once disagreed.
You’ve never wronged me, so my love for you is always deep. But since you brought that piglet of yours home, I feel belittled and abandoned, you know?
It’s a pity for me that you said so. My love for you is witnessed by God and Buddha.
I give you one last chance to consider: Either you choose me, or you have only one choice. You’ll live with the piglet, and I’ll stay in the back of the forest. If you want a harmonious family, there’s no other way. You must abandon your own liking to find a common voice. As long as I still hear the squeals of that little animal, I feel like my love is shattered. If you think you can’t go along with me, then from now on, we go separate ways.
Nam, how can you say that to me? You know that you’re everything to me. If you leave me, how will I manage to live in this remote place?
You know too well what I want. If you can’t go along with it, there’s no reason for me to linger on.
How can you be so insensitive and have no understanding for me?
My love for you can’t be shared with this piglet. One last time: Are you going to do as I say?
I love you. But please let me explain. I...
No. That’s your choice. Now I have to finish hoeing the field. If I still hear the sound of that piglet when I return, then don’t blame me.
Nam! Please listen to me. Nam!
O piglet! I love you so much. Do you miss your parents? I love you because you’re like me. You have no relatives and live alone in a remote mountain. Because I love you, I got scolded, you know? If I let you go, how can you survive in this isolated forest? But if I try to keep you, I’ll have to endure the scolding from now on. I wish you could hear what I say. I wish you could understand how I feel now.
O piglet, you heard and understood what I just said, didn’t you? Oh yes, I’ll feed you. I’ll raise you. Time passes quickly. With a lush patch, full of vegetables in the backyard, together with the rice and potatoes in the field, I’ll give you a comfortable life. We’ll keep each other company so that the house won’t feel so lonely. Though poor, we live peacefully, contented with humble food every day. Forget your lot as a lone animal.
Life is a river flowing to distant unknown places, rising waves of vicissitudes, and changing its direction many times, without realizing how deep the dale is. You and I are but the same species, not knowing whether we’re happy or sad. Seeing your lonely fate, I was touched. Why do we live here like wild animals? We’re two different souls, having the same bitter feeling about our murky future. You’re hungry, aren’t you?
Let me give you some sweet potatoes. Here, I don’t know how much longer I can take care of you. Well, we just live day by day then. When done eating, you must sleep. Don’t run into things carelessly, all right? Now, I’ll go collect some firewood. I’ll be back with you in a little while. Bye bye, piglet!
O Giao! Sweetie! Where on Earth is she going? I raised my voice with her a while ago. I wonder if she’s mad at me. Well, I’ll make it up with this bunch of bananas. Uh oh... my goodness! What is it that’s sticking out? O God, pig manure again! You’re really too much! Today I’m going to catch and give you away, no matter what. You’re finished! You’re trying to run away? Stop! Stop!
Mr. Nam! You’re very tired, aren’t you? Have some tea and feel better.
Thank you. I’m going to catch him this time by all means.
That pig is so scared of you already. Kindly forgive him.
I’m so mad! How can I forgive him? You see, the pig kept sneaking from the front gate to the back door all day long. His feet were smeared with dirty manure. Then he came lying next to me. If I screamed, he ran off, then returned. My house, my furniture... everything is so stinky.
I understand. The piglet was not considerate, so he made you angry and lose your appetite and sleep. But you’re exhausted now; you have no strength to chase after him. Have another cup of tea, then lie down and rest. When you feel better, it’s not too late to resume your chase, right?
Oh God! I’m so upset because I couldn’t catch him, and you told me to stay calm and take a rest. How? Only when I catch him will my inside stop boiling.
Fine, then go ahead. Your legs are unsteady, your mouth is dried out from thirst. I’m afraid that not only can’t you catch the pig, you even bring trouble upon yourself.
What you said makes sense.
I’ll leave you alone for now. Wait until I feel better! I’ll show you what I’m made of.
Not everything will go our way. Fortunately, this matter is as small as a pig. If it’s as big as filling the sea or patching the sky, I’m afraid you will fail with such a temperament. Well, just rest, then go home later.
I... How strange! How come I suddenly feel so sleepy after drinking this bowl of tea?
Go ahead and sleep. Bye now.
Where is this? How strange it is! I’ve never set foot in this place before. Anyone here?
You woke up already?
Where is this place? And you… I remember meeting you at the shrine at noon.
This is the Fairy Mountain. Not everyone can come here, except for those with affinity whose worldly conduct is comparable to that of a spiritual practitioner. You’re a farmer living a poor life but you have a good and sincere heart. You’ve led a life irreproachable by Heaven and Earth and thereby created good karma (retribution).
What did you just preach? Is the Good Karma (Retribution) scripture from the celestial realm or on Earth that I’ve never heard of? What is good karma (retribution)? Why am I here? Why did you do that? I just need to know about collecting firewood and cultivating potatoes.
As a farmer who is busy everyday selling firewood to earn a living, you couldn’t possibly grasp that human life has its present and future.
Your story sounds so fairy-like and vague, I couldn’t understand at all. I wish to ask of you just one thing: Please send me back to my wife.
What you consider a vague fairy-tale will become a reality, just like the breeze that sent you into your nap at noon. You didn’t see it at all. Human life is similar, not any different from a breeze. Distant past lives can’t be perceived with physical eyes. You’re now a reincarnation from past lives. That vague philosophy will soon be clear to you.
I don’t want to hear it, nor can I understand it. What I’m waiting to find out is my piglet’s whereabouts. As a highly knowledgeable person, you certainly know that very clearly.
Now close your eyes, son. Relinquish all six earthly desires. As if you’ve attained the heavenly eye, I’ll help you see clearly your previous and future lives.
The day I met you first Was the day of my birth Pink and round, me oh so plump With Mom I gaily frolicked.
Lovingly you looked at me Praising, “Oh, so round, what a cutie!” Every day you came by to visit Bringing cool water and delicious veggie treats.
Mommy and I were so touched Your kindness worth more than gold I lived a peaceful life Under your care and protection Growing more plump with each passing day Just eat, rest and play…
See? See that? I wasn’t wrong in what I said. The newly born piglet is plump and such a cutie.
Congratulations! Wow! What a good breed! Later he’ll grow big to be like his mother – less fat and more meat. The market has a great demand for that kind. We’re notable dealers in the pig business, so much praised by people everywhere: “Sister Gia is a caring person; she’d offer to buy at a higher-than-market price for the poor. She’s also wholeheartedly concerned, helping with medicine for newly born piglets.” I lend people money to buy more milk. I show them the right kind of treatment for sick pigs.
My wife is like that! She sympathizes with those in hardship. Even when the pigs are sick, she’d buy them to help people out. Once payment is made, the slaughterhouse is ready. Because if people throw the pig’s corpse on the street, they’d surely lose their investment.
I know you two are very kind-hearted. Besides doing trade, you routinely go to the temple, give alms and fast to accumulate merit for the future. You also recite scriptures and chant Buddha’s name every day. I admire and esteem you, so I invite you over to celebrate with me. And the piglet, I’ll save him to only sell to you when it grows up.
Thank you for saving it for me. I buy at high price; easygoing in weight and measures, unlike novice traders, who not only buy at dirt cheap price but also cheat on the weight.
So the deal is considered sealed. The important thing is that we keep our word. I’ll visit now and then to check when he has enough weight to leave the sty, so that you get the money sooner and I can enjoy the extra merit.
Yes, yes, all right. Please come inside for some tea, brother and sister.
How adorable!
Who’s adorable?
I just praised... this breed of pig. If this pig is served on the table, even heavy drinkers would be tipsy.
You watch out!
No! No!
Mom, what are you doing?
I’m determined to do everything to get you out of this place.
But how can you, Mom, when your life now is no different than mine? You’re also confined by them.
What happens to me doesn’t matter. I just feel sorry that you’re still very young. I have only you in my life. If anything happens to you, how can I live on?
O Mom! Tell me, am I a being?
Why are you asking so strangely? You’re my son, of course.
No. I meant, am I a human being?
I... I don’t know. That question should be for me to ask. I don’t know if I’ve been a human, but my love for you is so sacred and so deep. When I heard people planning to harm you, I felt pained as if my skin were split and my flesh cut. How can I help you escape this dark life, when the knife is dangling in waiting to split your skin and cut your flesh? Humans only suffer when disasters come suddenly, not like in my case. Hearing you scream before your execution, I’d stand tormented, watching you being skinned.
Your love for me is bright and pure, yet weighed down with sadness. I was born only to bring you more grief. Why do humans so heartlessly create more grave sin to fill this world with laments? Their future retribution is a muddy swamp. Worldly people commit more wrongdoings. Fumes of resentment rises up to the ninth heaven.
Foreseeing our time of separation, I swallow my agony and strain myself to raise you to the last minute. Even if I die first, I’ll feel contented because I’ll have fulfilled some of my inner wish in requiting a deep bond of affection. If you were to leave soon I’d feel less regretful. Upon our separation, you’ll pay off your karmic debt as an animal.
Alas, your words are so heart-wrenching. Only those in this situation could understand an animal’s life. I’ll accept my lot however it is. I just wish that you’ll become a human in your next life.
My poor son!
Please have a drink! What do you think? What I said was true. This is a good breed! It takes just a few months for him to be meaty. I guarantee you’ll be completely satisfied.
That’s right!
No need to tell me, I know. I’m expert on pigs.
With my touch, goodness, these pigs grow incredibly. You don’t know my wife’s expertise. If she wants a pig to weigh heavy or light, she just pulls the scale all the way. My wife knows all tricks of the trade.
Who beats you into confession?
I forgot, I forgot.
What a chatty man! Sister, talking about frauds in trading, that’s for the nomadic merchants, those without homes and neighbors. They owe no one any debt of affection; they have no kindness and righteousness. They just come and go, attached to nothing. So they don’t think of their conscience. They’d do anything that’s profitable without hesitation. With unscrupulous trading practices, they’d cheat honest people. They’d sell ten times the price they buy to satisfy their greed. But we are long-time acquaintances. Aside from doing business, we’re considerate of one another.
My wife was telling the truth. Please feel at ease. We’re neighbors; no one would do that. We do need money, but kindness is more important. We’ll help each other in time of hardship. Not only we never cheat on the scale, we buy at a higher price than others do. With you, we don’t overemphasize on profit, but only wish that we’re both benefited.
I know he was just kidding. Since all this time, I’ve heard him praise you as a very honest person. That’s why I hold you both in high regards and also have faith in your pig trading skill. The thing is... I already promised to sell you this pig but I’m afraid I can’t keep my word.
Why, why is that?
I’m too poor, so I don’t know if I can afford to raise him to maturity.
Oh, I thought it’s something serious. If you need money, I’ll sell you bran on credit. Later, I’ll deduct it from the sale. There’s no loss. Right? Right?
That’s right. It’s only good to aid people when they’re poor. Who’d need help in richness? Don’t you worry!
Don’t worry!
To be honest, I really love to raise pigs. That’s why I trouble you this time only.
No problem!
If I’m short of money midway, please help me.
For sure! Now, just raise the pigs without worry. If you’re out of bran, just come to me. I’ll provide the bran and record it. When the pig is mature, we’ll weigh him then deduct the money you owe for the bran. We have money, you put in the labor. We help one another and we both benefit. Right?
What do you think?
So?
If that’s okay with you, I thank you very much.
No need for thanks.
Don’t think about it, darling. We’d be very happy to help you. Don’t thank us; it sounds so formal. It’s not only you. Sáu’s wife from the upper hamlet, Hai Thàng’s wife by the Uncle Shrine, and Tư Đắng’s wife from Narrow Ditch, all are raising pigs using our money.
And now it’s you.
Ouch! Oh God!
What’s the matter, brother? Are you hurt?
No, no! There’s an ant, a big ant.
That’s settled then. Don’t worry. Just come over for the bran. If you need money, just say so. We’ll lend you. We’re neighbors. I’ve made offerings to the temple for a lot more than that. All right, we’re going home now, sister.
We’ll see you later.
Yes, bye now. (Let’s go!)
How sad to leave!
Bye bye. Yes. Let’s go!
In Aulacese (Vietnamese) culture, cải lương (modern folk opera) is a popular theater art that dates back about three centuries, when the flourishing South was a new land. Among those who settled in the South at that time were musicians from the royal palace in the ancient capital Huế. Since then, the kind of ceremonial music often heard in the palace became more widely known among the populace.
Eventually, new songs were composed. Many amateur musical groups were formed, adopting music and song as a form of elegant entertainment. From about 1912 to 1915, the artists of these musical groups began to combine gestures to their songs. Since then, a new genre called ca ra bộ was born. Performers conversed; sometimes a song would be used as dialogue. Ca ra bộ continued to develop to create the theatrical art that is now called modern folk opera.
The orchestra for Aulacese modern folk opera usually consists of the six-string guitar, the moon lute, the pear-shaped lute, two-string fiddle, sixteen-string zither, and monochord zither. The themes of Aulacese modern folk opera highlight humanitarian and moral values. The dialogues are profound, the song lyrics and tunes are rhythmic and rich in melody. These are some of the reasons cải lương (modern folk opera) has an enduring place in the hearts of the Aulacese people.
In the Lunar New Year 2007, during an outdoor gathering with our Association members in Formosa (Taiwan), Supreme Master Ching Hai was moved to spontaneously sing a folk opera song “Spiritual Practice is a Source of Blessing” written by Mr. Viễn Châu, which she knew by heart since her youth. We now invite you to listen to an excerpt of this folk opera song through the voice of Supreme Master Ching Hai.
Kneeling down, she sobs in the main hall of worship
As the temple bell sounds the hour of prayer
O young devotee, why do you wish to be a nun?
Finding comfort in the scriptures, and acquainting yourself with spiritual practice?
But how can you achieve enlightenment when earthly traces are still evident on your seasoned countenance?
Are you rid of worldly debt or are still entangled?
Did you renounce the world because glory and fame have lost their appeal and life seems like an abyss?
Or was it because of a fleeting moment of jealousy and distress that you intend to hide yourself behind the temple’s gate to bury your grief and forget your sorrow?
On Enlightening Entertainment, Supreme Master Television is pleased to introduce different forms of arts from Âu Lạc (Vietnam), as well as from other countries in the world, in order to share the beauty and cultures of the peoples on our planet.
Respected viewers, this week and next week, we are honored to present the world premiere of the Aulacese (Vietnamese) modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution),” specially based on the poem “Words of a Piglet” written by Supreme Master Ching Hai in her late 20s, through the adaptation of musician Thái An and playwright Hoàng Song Việt.
A vegetarian since her youth, Supreme Master Ching Hai highly values the life of all beings, be they family pets or birds in the wild, humble tiny insects or powerful animals like elephants, bears and others who unfortunately have been captured for human entertainment. Supreme Master Ching Hai has always felt much sorrow for the plight of animals facing heartless treatments.
Therefore, since her youth, she has written poems reflecting sentiments of our animal co-habitants, such as “A Puppy’s Heart,” “Words of a Hen,” and “Words of a Piglet.” Furthermore, Supreme Master Ching Hai is also the author of three #1 international bestsellers. “The Dogs in My Life,” “The Birds in My Life,” and “The Noble Wilds,” originally written in English, have been translated into several languages such as Aulacese (Vietnamese), Polish, Korean, German, Mongolian, Indonesian, Russian, Japanese, French, Spanish, and Chinese.
Her dedicated efforts are reminders to human beings of the noble qualities and love of our animal friends, who always sacrifice themselves, offer loyalty and forgiveness, and bring wonderful gifts into our lives. Unfortunately, the current fate of our animal friends on Earth is full of miseries. Every year, 140 billion animal co-habitants are killed to supply the meat, egg and dairy industries all over the world.
In the United States alone, more than 100 million pig friends are slaughtered each year. That is not to mention the millions of animal friends being killed in laboratories every year; millions of dogs and cats killed in shelters for stray animals; and many animal friends who die from being tortured for “entertainment” in the circus, bull fighting, cock fighting, horse racing, dog racing, and so on.
In past decades, during her lectures around the world Supreme Master Ching Hai has always advised Earth citizens to return to the path of love and to stop the killing. In recent years, due to the urgency of climate change, she has compassionately responded to requests to speak in many videoconferences and answer questions from the public about the most effective solution for now and the future.
Her message, simple yet profound and accurate in every aspect, from science, economy, health, to spirituality, has become a slogan enthusiastically supported by distinguished organizations and individuals in society including scientists, government officials, medical professionals, artists, athletes, and celebrities: “Be veg, go green, save the planet.”
Durng the launch of the Aulacese (Vietnamese) edition of “The Birds in My Life” in Pathumthani, Thailand on October 11, 2008, Supreme Master Ching Hai, as author and guest of honor, addressed via videoconference questions from the audience including Aulacese scientists, physicians, professors, and artists about the importance of animal friends on Earth.
Because these helpless animals, they don’t do anything to harm us, but only bring joy to beautify the life of humanity. To take it a step further, they also show us unconditional love.
One should not commit acts of cruelty, like confining animals in such anguishing and miserable conditions. But humans haven’t yet understood, thus, they continue to do those things. So, we hope that one day the whole world will awaken and love and care for one another, including all the innocent animals so that Heaven and Earth have mercy on us and spare our lives, as well as the lives of our children, so that the planet can survive for everyone to enjoy. Indeed, saving the planet is considered humanity’s top priority today.
In early June 2010, the United Nations Environment Program called upon the world to switch to a vegan diet to save the Earth. Mr. Achim Steiner, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program, explained the disastrous consequences of livestock farming. He said,
“Two broad areas are currently having a disproportionately high impact on people and the planet’s life support systems - these are energy in the form of fossil fuels and agriculture, especially the raising of livestock for meat and dairy products.” In the report titled “Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Production and Consumption,” researchers clearly stated,
“A substantial reduction of impacts would only be possible with a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products.” The fact that a United Nations agency urgently requests humankind to implement “a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products” reflects the ultimate goal of saving this planet from self destruction.
Right from the beginning, animals were never meant to be food for humans. In addition, animals also have their own thoughts and overflowing feelings. Please now join us to listen to heartfelt sentiments of an animal friend very close in our lives through the verses of Supreme Master Ching Hai in the poem “Words of a Piglet.”
The day I met you first Was the day of my birth Pink and round, me oh so plump With Mom I gaily frolicked.
Lovingly you looked at me Praising, “Oh, so round, what a cutie!” Every day you came by to visit Bringing cool water and delicious veggie treats.
Mommy and I were so touched Your kindness worth more than gold I lived a peaceful life Under your care and protection Growing more plump with each passing day Just eat, rest and play…
So lovely was this early morn As clouds were drifting across the sky Cuddling together, Mommy and I Unaware of the befalling tragedy!
Two brawny young men Strong like tigers and elephants Squashed my tiny body Flat into a cage of horror! There was no way to escape! O God, what purgatory was this?
I wailed in fear and terror Mom, oh Mom, please save me! Oh caretaker, please come protect me quickly! Rescue my life, I’m still at a tender age!
Mom was crying out in sorrow Tears of desperation filling her eyes The immense Heavens cannot contain This horrendous emotional pain!
My caretaker turned away Hands busy counting a stack of money Haplessly I rolled around in the car trunk Breaking heart more painful than bodily misery!
The two young men bantered: “This piglet will be so tasty! Tomorrow we’ll slaughter him To celebrate the birth of the wife’s newborn baby!!”
Oh, how ironic this life My soul is shattered Tears flow in my heart Like blood running in rivulets.
I thought you loved me Nurturing me to maturity But all this was a sham For you, it’s just profit and gain!
Tomorrow my body will be cut to pieces My flesh and bones turned to sheer torture Just so people can laugh in merriment At their happy feast and gathering.
To your children and others’ too I wish them all long lives So the family can stay together Not endure the same fate as mine…
I pray the whole family lives nobly To be human in many lifetimes And never be reborn as pigs Paying forever karmic debts!
Alas, good-bye life… I ache for my gentle suffering mother In tears I am overcome… Oh, Mommy! Mom…Mom…
You have listened to the poem “Words of a Piglet,” written by Supreme Master Ching Hai in her late 20s. These moving verses have been adapted into an Aulacese (Vietnamese) modern folk opera titled “A Tale of Karma (Retribution)” by musician Thái An and playwright Hoàng Song Việt, and directed by Mr. Lê Lộc.
This opera will be presented in two parts and performed by Outstanding Artist Mr. Tấn Giao as Nam, Ms. Như Quỳnh as Giao, Mr. Tiểu Bảo Quốc as Tự, Ms. Thy Phương as Gia, Mr. Hữu Tài as the Elder Fairy, Ms. Hồng Thủy as the Mother Pig, and Ms. Yến Nhung as the Pig Caretaker.
Thái An is a famous composer who has written and arranged music for over 3,000 modern folk operas, feature films, and plays. He was born in Kiên Giang, southern Âu Lạc, and is a vegetarian. Regarding the modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution),” Mr. Thái An said: “I had the inspiration to write the opera after reading the poem ‘Words of a Piglet’ by Supreme Master Ching Hai. Through this opera, I would like to offer viewers a message: Let us love and protect all species.”
Collaborating with musician Thái An in the modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution)” is Mr. Hoàng Song Việt, a noted playwright who has won gold medals in festivals for stage performances with such operas as “Dragon and Phoenix,” “The Tale of Kim, Vân and Kiều,” “A Companionless Tree,” “Spirit of Jeweled Poetry,” and “Not Sand and Dust.” At present, playwright Hoàng Song Việt has adapted and composed more than 20 operas, garnering many awards. His operas have brought glory to many young artists.
Lê Lộc is one of Âu Lạc’s leading directors. Graduated from the College of Literature, majoring in linguistics and literature in 1985, he has directed hundreds of works of art including Aulacese modern folk operas, movies, modern music, and traditional songs of nostalgia (vọng cổ).
Director Lê Lộc shares his thoughts about the modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution)”: “In a busy society full of worries about money and earning a living, this is an opera which conveys a very good moral education; it recommends that people be vegetarian and virtuous, loving one another. This opera should be promoted widely so everyone can see.”
Thank you for your company on today’s Enlightening Entertainment. Please stay tuned to Supreme Master Television. Up next is Words of Wisdom. May your life be filled with joy and divine grace. Farewell for now.
Oh joy, a farmer’s life is poor but happy! To the orchard in the morning, then the paddy in the afternoon. A farmer’s life is carefree and peaceful, even with just rice, vegetables and pickles. Roaming leisurely on the river – what could be a better bliss?
Oh Heaven and Earth! Woe is my foot! O Giao! O wife!
Honey, you’re back? How are you, love? Would you like some fresh tea I just made?
What for! I just stepped on the pig’s manure again! Why don’t you tie it in the back? What for are you letting him wander in the yard? Let him go, sweetheart, so you don’t have to clean the house and take care of him all day.
Honey, you’re talking strange! It’s fine if we didn’t choose to raise him, but since we did, we must take care of him, and he’ll also keep us company in this remote forest.
I don’t need him to entertain me. You and I have been together for a few years. Even though we’re childless and the house is empty, but there’s a warmth of love and affection. Our simple meals come from collecting firewood and cultivating corns and potatoes, but our married life is harmonious.
Understanding your loneliness, Heaven gave us a piglet to care for and keep us company. I also feel happy to have an animal companion in our home.
I already told you many times. I don’t need him to be my friend. I’m happy already with your company. You bring this bothersome thing home and one day... I’ll leave for good to let you stay with him for the rest of your life.
How could you say that? You’re my husband. We’re always together in good and bad times. He’s just a piglet getting lost in the deep forest.
You stubbornly argue with me no matter what I say. Since the day you carried this piglet home, at night I’ve been losing my sleep. During the day, he rummages the house from front to back. He runs freely as if it’s an uninhabited place. From every nook and cranny all the way to the veranda, he leaves nothing untouched. I’ve told you again and again that he’s an animal, but you keep carrying him in your arms. Even at night, you hold him like your child. I’m really sad!
We’re dirt poor and have no neighbors. So there’s no fear of disturbing anyone. From dawn to dusk, we receive no visitors, so why should you worry that we live with a pig?
But I’m so annoyed, because the pig irritates my eyes. I’ll tie him up later and give him to a friend.
O honey, since I followed you here to live together in a thatched hut by the deep forest amid the whistling mountain wind and far-stretching mist, my life is indescribably sadder than that of a wild animal. I cultivate potatoes in the morning and gather dried firewood by the foothill in the afternoon.
I carry them with my hands and shoulders to the market to earn a little money, then return to the wild forest. I care for my husband, without dreaming of a rich life. Our meals are just cold rice and salted cabbage, but our married bond is warm. Though enduring much hardship, I never regret. Poor as we are, I’m happy that we’ve never once disagreed.
You’ve never wronged me, so my love for you is always deep. But since you brought that piglet of yours home, I feel belittled and abandoned, you know?
It’s a pity for me that you said so. My love for you is witnessed by God and Buddha.
I give you one last chance to consider: Either you choose me, or you have only one choice. You’ll live with the piglet, and I’ll stay in the back of the forest. If you want a harmonious family, there’s no other way. You must abandon your own liking to find a common voice. As long as I still hear the squeals of that little animal, I feel like my love is shattered. If you think you can’t go along with me, then from now on, we go separate ways.
Nam, how can you say that to me? You know that you’re everything to me. If you leave me, how will I manage to live in this remote place?
You know too well what I want. If you can’t go along with it, there’s no reason for me to linger on.
How can you be so insensitive and have no understanding for me?
My love for you can’t be shared with this piglet. One last time: Are you going to do as I say?
I love you. But please let me explain. I...
No. That’s your choice. Now I have to finish hoeing the field. If I still hear the sound of that piglet when I return, then don’t blame me.
Nam! Please listen to me. Nam!
O piglet! I love you so much. Do you miss your parents? I love you because you’re like me. You have no relatives and live alone in a remote mountain. Because I love you, I got scolded, you know? If I let you go, how can you survive in this isolated forest? But if I try to keep you, I’ll have to endure the scolding from now on. I wish you could hear what I say. I wish you could understand how I feel now.
O piglet, you heard and understood what I just said, didn’t you? Oh yes, I’ll feed you. I’ll raise you. Time passes quickly. With a lush patch, full of vegetables in the backyard, together with the rice and potatoes in the field, I’ll give you a comfortable life. We’ll keep each other company so that the house won’t feel so lonely. Though poor, we live peacefully, contented with humble food every day. Forget your lot as a lone animal.
Life is a river flowing to distant unknown places, rising waves of vicissitudes, and changing its direction many times, without realizing how deep the dale is. You and I are but the same species, not knowing whether we’re happy or sad. Seeing your lonely fate, I was touched. Why do we live here like wild animals? We’re two different souls, having the same bitter feeling about our murky future. You’re hungry, aren’t you?
Let me give you some sweet potatoes. Here, I don’t know how much longer I can take care of you. Well, we just live day by day then. When done eating, you must sleep. Don’t run into things carelessly, all right? Now, I’ll go collect some firewood. I’ll be back with you in a little while. Bye bye, piglet!
O Giao! Sweetie! Where on Earth is she going? I raised my voice with her a while ago. I wonder if she’s mad at me. Well, I’ll make it up with this bunch of bananas. Uh oh... my goodness! What is it that’s sticking out? O God, pig manure again! You’re really too much! Today I’m going to catch and give you away, no matter what. You’re finished! You’re trying to run away? Stop! Stop!
Mr. Nam! You’re very tired, aren’t you? Have some tea and feel better.
Thank you. I’m going to catch him this time by all means.
That pig is so scared of you already. Kindly forgive him.
I’m so mad! How can I forgive him? You see, the pig kept sneaking from the front gate to the back door all day long. His feet were smeared with dirty manure. Then he came lying next to me. If I screamed, he ran off, then returned. My house, my furniture... everything is so stinky.
I understand. The piglet was not considerate, so he made you angry and lose your appetite and sleep. But you’re exhausted now; you have no strength to chase after him. Have another cup of tea, then lie down and rest. When you feel better, it’s not too late to resume your chase, right?
Oh God! I’m so upset because I couldn’t catch him, and you told me to stay calm and take a rest. How? Only when I catch him will my inside stop boiling.
Fine, then go ahead. Your legs are unsteady, your mouth is dried out from thirst. I’m afraid that not only can’t you catch the pig, you even bring trouble upon yourself.
What you said makes sense.
I’ll leave you alone for now. Wait until I feel better! I’ll show you what I’m made of.
Not everything will go our way. Fortunately, this matter is as small as a pig. If it’s as big as filling the sea or patching the sky, I’m afraid you will fail with such a temperament. Well, just rest, then go home later.
I... How strange! How come I suddenly feel so sleepy after drinking this bowl of tea?
Go ahead and sleep. Bye now.
Where is this? How strange it is! I’ve never set foot in this place before. Anyone here?
You woke up already?
Where is this place? And you… I remember meeting you at the shrine at noon.
This is the Fairy Mountain. Not everyone can come here, except for those with affinity whose worldly conduct is comparable to that of a spiritual practitioner. You’re a farmer living a poor life but you have a good and sincere heart. You’ve led a life irreproachable by Heaven and Earth and thereby created good karma (retribution).
What did you just preach? Is the Good Karma (Retribution) scripture from the celestial realm or on Earth that I’ve never heard of? What is good karma (retribution)? Why am I here? Why did you do that? I just need to know about collecting firewood and cultivating potatoes.
As a farmer who is busy everyday selling firewood to earn a living, you couldn’t possibly grasp that human life has its present and future.
Your story sounds so fairy-like and vague, I couldn’t understand at all. I wish to ask of you just one thing: Please send me back to my wife.
What you consider a vague fairy-tale will become a reality, just like the breeze that sent you into your nap at noon. You didn’t see it at all. Human life is similar, not any different from a breeze. Distant past lives can’t be perceived with physical eyes. You’re now a reincarnation from past lives. That vague philosophy will soon be clear to you.
I don’t want to hear it, nor can I understand it. What I’m waiting to find out is my piglet’s whereabouts. As a highly knowledgeable person, you certainly know that very clearly.
Now close your eyes, son. Relinquish all six earthly desires. As if you’ve attained the heavenly eye, I’ll help you see clearly your previous and future lives.
The day I met you first Was the day of my birth Pink and round, me oh so plump With Mom I gaily frolicked.
Lovingly you looked at me Praising, “Oh, so round, what a cutie!” Every day you came by to visit Bringing cool water and delicious veggie treats.
Mommy and I were so touched Your kindness worth more than gold I lived a peaceful life Under your care and protection Growing more plump with each passing day Just eat, rest and play…
See? See that? I wasn’t wrong in what I said. The newly born piglet is plump and such a cutie.
Congratulations! Wow! What a good breed! Later he’ll grow big to be like his mother – less fat and more meat. The market has a great demand for that kind. We’re notable dealers in the pig business, so much praised by people everywhere: “Sister Gia is a caring person; she’d offer to buy at a higher-than-market price for the poor. She’s also wholeheartedly concerned, helping with medicine for newly born piglets.” I lend people money to buy more milk. I show them the right kind of treatment for sick pigs.
My wife is like that! She sympathizes with those in hardship. Even when the pigs are sick, she’d buy them to help people out. Once payment is made, the slaughterhouse is ready. Because if people throw the pig’s corpse on the street, they’d surely lose their investment.
I know you two are very kind-hearted. Besides doing trade, you routinely go to the temple, give alms and fast to accumulate merit for the future. You also recite scriptures and chant Buddha’s name every day. I admire and esteem you, so I invite you over to celebrate with me. And the piglet, I’ll save him to only sell to you when it grows up.
Thank you for saving it for me. I buy at high price; easygoing in weight and measures, unlike novice traders, who not only buy at dirt cheap price but also cheat on the weight.
So the deal is considered sealed. The important thing is that we keep our word. I’ll visit now and then to check when he has enough weight to leave the sty, so that you get the money sooner and I can enjoy the extra merit.
Yes, yes, all right. Please come inside for some tea, brother and sister.
How adorable!
Who’s adorable?
I just praised... this breed of pig. If this pig is served on the table, even heavy drinkers would be tipsy.
You watch out!
No! No!
Mom, what are you doing?
I’m determined to do everything to get you out of this place.
But how can you, Mom, when your life now is no different than mine? You’re also confined by them.
What happens to me doesn’t matter. I just feel sorry that you’re still very young. I have only you in my life. If anything happens to you, how can I live on?
O Mom! Tell me, am I a being?
Why are you asking so strangely? You’re my son, of course.
No. I meant, am I a human being?
I... I don’t know. That question should be for me to ask. I don’t know if I’ve been a human, but my love for you is so sacred and so deep. When I heard people planning to harm you, I felt pained as if my skin were split and my flesh cut. How can I help you escape this dark life, when the knife is dangling in waiting to split your skin and cut your flesh? Humans only suffer when disasters come suddenly, not like in my case. Hearing you scream before your execution, I’d stand tormented, watching you being skinned.
Your love for me is bright and pure, yet weighed down with sadness. I was born only to bring you more grief. Why do humans so heartlessly create more grave sin to fill this world with laments? Their future retribution is a muddy swamp. Worldly people commit more wrongdoings. Fumes of resentment rises up to the ninth heaven.
Foreseeing our time of separation, I swallow my agony and strain myself to raise you to the last minute. Even if I die first, I’ll feel contented because I’ll have fulfilled some of my inner wish in requiting a deep bond of affection. If you were to leave soon I’d feel less regretful. Upon our separation, you’ll pay off your karmic debt as an animal.
Alas, your words are so heart-wrenching. Only those in this situation could understand an animal’s life. I’ll accept my lot however it is. I just wish that you’ll become a human in your next life.
My poor son!
Please have a drink! What do you think? What I said was true. This is a good breed! It takes just a few months for him to be meaty. I guarantee you’ll be completely satisfied.
That’s right!
No need to tell me, I know. I’m expert on pigs.
With my touch, goodness, these pigs grow incredibly. You don’t know my wife’s expertise. If she wants a pig to weigh heavy or light, she just pulls the scale all the way. My wife knows all tricks of the trade.
Who beats you into confession?
I forgot, I forgot.
What a chatty man! Sister, talking about frauds in trading, that’s for the nomadic merchants, those without homes and neighbors. They owe no one any debt of affection; they have no kindness and righteousness. They just come and go, attached to nothing. So they don’t think of their conscience. They’d do anything that’s profitable without hesitation. With unscrupulous trading practices, they’d cheat honest people. They’d sell ten times the price they buy to satisfy their greed. But we are long-time acquaintances. Aside from doing business, we’re considerate of one another.
My wife was telling the truth. Please feel at ease. We’re neighbors; no one would do that. We do need money, but kindness is more important. We’ll help each other in time of hardship. Not only we never cheat on the scale, we buy at a higher price than others do. With you, we don’t overemphasize on profit, but only wish that we’re both benefited.
I know he was just kidding. Since all this time, I’ve heard him praise you as a very honest person. That’s why I hold you both in high regards and also have faith in your pig trading skill. The thing is... I already promised to sell you this pig but I’m afraid I can’t keep my word.
Why, why is that?
I’m too poor, so I don’t know if I can afford to raise him to maturity.
Oh, I thought it’s something serious. If you need money, I’ll sell you bran on credit. Later, I’ll deduct it from the sale. There’s no loss. Right? Right?
That’s right. It’s only good to aid people when they’re poor. Who’d need help in richness? Don’t you worry!
Don’t worry!
To be honest, I really love to raise pigs. That’s why I trouble you this time only.
No problem!
If I’m short of money midway, please help me.
For sure! Now, just raise the pigs without worry. If you’re out of bran, just come to me. I’ll provide the bran and record it. When the pig is mature, we’ll weigh him then deduct the money you owe for the bran. We have money, you put in the labor. We help one another and we both benefit. Right?
What do you think?
So?
If that’s okay with you, I thank you very much.
No need for thanks.
Don’t think about it, darling. We’d be very happy to help you. Don’t thank us; it sounds so formal. It’s not only you. Sáu’s wife from the upper hamlet, Hai Thàng’s wife by the Uncle Shrine, and Tư Đắng’s wife from Narrow Ditch, all are raising pigs using our money.
And now it’s you.
Ouch! Oh God!
What’s the matter, brother? Are you hurt?
No, no! There’s an ant, a big ant.
That’s settled then. Don’t worry. Just come over for the bran. If you need money, just say so. We’ll lend you. We’re neighbors. I’ve made offerings to the temple for a lot more than that. All right, we’re going home now, sister.
We’ll see you later.
Yes, bye now. (Let’s go!)
How sad to leave!
Bye bye. Yes. Let’s go!
Today’s Enlightening
Entertainment
will be presented in
Aulacese (Vietnamese),
with subtitles in Arabic,
Chinese, English,
French, German,
Hungarian, Indonesian,
Japanese, Korean
Malay, Persian,
Portuguese, Russian,
Spanish, and Thai.
In Aulacese (Vietnamese) culture, cải lương (modern folk opera) is a popular theater art that dates back about three centuries, when the flourishing South was a new land. Among those who settled in the South at that time were musicians from the royal palace in the ancient capital Huế. Since then, the kind of ceremonial music often heard in the palace became more widely known among the populace.
Eventually, new songs were composed. Many amateur musical groups were formed, adopting music and song as a form of elegant entertainment. From about 1912 to 1915, the artists of these musical groups began to combine gestures to their songs. Since then, a new genre called ca ra bộ was born. Performers conversed; sometimes a song would be used as dialogue. Ca ra bộ continued to develop to create the theatrical art that is now called modern folk opera.
The orchestra for Aulacese modern folk opera usually consists of the six-string guitar, the moon lute, the pear-shaped lute, two-string fiddle, sixteen-string zither, and monochord zither. The themes of Aulacese modern folk opera highlight humanitarian and moral values. The dialogues are profound, the song lyrics and tunes are rhythmic and rich in melody. These are some of the reasons cải lương (modern folk opera) has an enduring place in the hearts of the Aulacese people.
In the Lunar New Year 2007, during an outdoor gathering with our Association members in Formosa (Taiwan), Supreme Master Ching Hai was moved to spontaneously sing a folk opera song “Spiritual Practice is a Source of Blessing” written by Mr. Viễn Châu, which she knew by heart since her youth. We now invite you to listen to an excerpt of this folk opera song through the voice of Supreme Master Ching Hai.
Kneeling down, she sobs in the main hall of worship
As the temple bell sounds the hour of prayer
O young devotee, why do you wish to be a nun?
Finding comfort in the scriptures, and acquainting yourself with spiritual practice?
But how can you achieve enlightenment when earthly traces are still evident on your seasoned countenance?
Are you rid of worldly debt or are still entangled?
Did you renounce the world because glory and fame have lost their appeal and life seems like an abyss?
Or was it because of a fleeting moment of jealousy and distress that you intend to hide yourself behind the temple’s gate to bury your grief and forget your sorrow?
On Enlightening Entertainment, Supreme Master Television is pleased to introduce different forms of arts from Âu Lạc (Vietnam), as well as from other countries in the world, in order to share the beauty and cultures of the peoples on our planet.
Respected viewers, this week, we are honored to present the conclusion of the world premiere of the Aulacese (Vietnamese) modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution),” specially based on the poem “Words of a Piglet” written by Supreme Master Ching Hai in her late 20s, through the adaptation of musician Thái An and playwright Hoàng Song Việt.
A vegetarian since her youth, Supreme Master Ching Hai highly values the life of all beings, be they family pets or birds in the wild, humble tiny insects or powerful animals like elephants, bears and others who unfortunately have been captured for human entertainment. Supreme Master Ching Hai has always felt much sorrow for the plight of animals facing heartless treatments. Therefore, since her youth, she has written poems reflecting sentiments of our animal co-habitants, such as “A Puppy’s Heart,” “Words of a Hen,” and “Words of a Piglet.”
Furthermore, Supreme Master Ching Hai is also the author of three #1 international bestsellers. “The Dogs in My Life,” “The Birds in My Life,” and “The Noble Wilds,” originally written in English, have been translated into several languages such as Aulacese (Vietnamese), Polish, Korean, German, Mongolian, Indonesian, Russian, Japanese, French, Spanish, and Chinese.
Her dedicated efforts are reminders to human beings of the noble qualities and love of our animal friends, who always sacrifice themselves, offer loyalty and forgiveness, and bring wonderful gifts into our lives.
Unfortunately, the current fate of our animal friends on Earth is full of miseries. Every year, 140 billion animal co-habitants are killed to supply the meat, egg and dairy industries all over the world. In the United States alone, more than 100 million pig friends are slaughtered each year. That is not to mention the millions of animal friends being killed in laboratories every year; millions of dogs and cats killed in shelters for stray animals; and many animal friends who die from being tortured for “entertainment” in the circus, bull fighting, cock fighting, horse racing, dog racing, and so on.
In past decades, during her lectures around the world Supreme Master Ching Hai has always advised Earth citizens to return to the path of love and to stop the killing. In recent years, due to the urgency of climate change, she has compassionately responded to requests to speak in many videoconferences and answer questions from the public about the most effective solution for now and the future.
Her message, simple yet profound and accurate in every aspect, from science, economy, health, to spirituality, has become a slogan enthusiastically supported by distinguished organizations and individuals in society including scientists, government officials, medical professionals, artists, athletes, and celebrities: “Be Veg, Go Green, 2 Save the Planet!”
During the launch of the Aulacese (Vietnamese) edition of “The Birds in My Life” in Pathumthani, Thailand on October 11, 2008, Supreme Master Ching Hai, as author and guest of honor, addressed via videoconference questions from the audience including Aulacese scientists, physicians, professors, and artists about the importance of animal friends on Earth.
Because these helpless animals, they don’t do anything to harm us, but only bring joy to beautify the life of humanity. To take it a step further, they also show us unconditional love.
One should not commit acts of cruelty, like confining animals in such anguishing and miserable conditions. But humans haven’t yet understood, thus, they continue to do those things. So, we hope that one day the whole world will awaken and love and care for one another, including all the innocent animals so that Heaven and Earth have mercy on us and spare our lives, as well as the lives of our children, so that the planet can survive for everyone to enjoy. Indeed, saving the planet is considered humanity’s top priority today.
In early June 2010, the United Nations Environment Program called upon the world to switch to a vegan diet to save the Earth. Mr. Achim Steiner, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program, explained the disastrous consequences of livestock farming. He said,
“Two broad areas are currently having a disproportionately high impact on people and the planet’s life support systems - these are energy in the form of fossil fuels and agriculture, especially the raising of livestock for meat and dairy products.” In the report titled “Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Production and Consumption,” researchers clearly stated,
“A substantial reduction of impacts would only be possible with a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products.” The fact that a United Nations agency urgently requests humankind to implement “a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products” reflects the ultimate goal of saving this planet from self destruction.
Right from the beginning, animals were never meant to be food for humans. In addition, animals also have their own thoughts and overflowing feelings. Please now join us to listen to heartfelt sentiments of an animal friend very close in our lives through the verses of Supreme Master Ching Hai in the poem “Words of a Piglet.”
The day I met you first Was the day of my birth Pink and round, me oh so plump With Mom I gaily frolicked.
Lovingly you looked at me Praising, “Oh, so round, what a cutie!” Every day you came by to visit Bringing cool water and delicious veggie treats.
Mommy and I were so touched Your kindness worth more than gold I lived a peaceful life Under your care and protection Growing more plump with each passing day Just eat, rest and play…
So lovely was this early morn As clouds were drifting across the sky Cuddling together, Mommy and I Unaware of the befalling tragedy!
Two brawny young men Strong like tigers and elephants Squashed my tiny body Flat into a cage of horror! There was no way to escape! O God, what purgatory was this?
I wailed in fear and terror Mom, oh Mom, please save me! Oh caretaker, please come protect me quickly! Rescue my life, I’m still at a tender age!
Mom was crying out in sorrow Tears of desperation filling her eyes The immense Heavens cannot contain This horrendous emotional pain!
My caretaker turned away Hands busy counting a stack of money Haplessly I rolled around in the car trunk Breaking heart more painful than bodily misery!
The two young men bantered: “This piglet will be so tasty! Tomorrow we’ll slaughter him To celebrate the birth of the wife’s newborn baby!!”
Oh, how ironic this life My soul is shattered Tears flow in my heart Like blood running in rivulets.
I thought you loved me Nurturing me to maturity But all this was a sham For you, it’s just profit and gain!
Tomorrow my body will be cut to pieces My flesh and bones turned to sheer torture Just so people can laugh in merriment At their happy feast and gathering.
To your children and others’ too I wish them all long lives So the family can stay together Not endure the same fate as mine…
I pray the whole family lives nobly To be human in many lifetimes And never be reborn as pigs Paying forever karmic debts!
Alas, good-bye life… I ache for my gentle suffering mother In tears I am overcome… Oh, Mommy! Mom…Mom…
You have listened to the poem “Words of a Piglet,” written by Supreme Master Ching Hai in her late 20s. These moving verses have been adapted into an Aulacese (Vietnamese) modern folk opera titled “A Tale of Karma ##(Retribution)” by musician Thái An and playwright Hoàng Song Việt, and directed by Mr. Lê Lộc.
We now invite you to enjoy the conclusion of the modern folk opera titled “A Tale of Karma (Retribution),”performed by Artist of Merit Mr. Tấn Giao as Nam, Ms. Như Quỳnh as Giao, Mr. Tiểu Bảo Quốc as Tự, Ms. Thy Phương as Gia, Mr. Hữu Tài as the Elder Fairy, Ms. Hồng Thủy as the Mother Pig, and Ms. Yến Nhung as the Pig Caretaker.
Thank you for your company on today’s Enlightening Entertainment. Words of Wisdom is coming up. Please tune in on Supreme Master Television next Thursday for the Aulacese chèo traditional opera entitled “The Third Princess” by playwright Trần Trí Trắc. May your life be filled with peace, happiness and noble love. We bid you farewell for now.
Last week, we learned about a married couple, Nam and Giao, who lived happily together in a thatched house by the woods. However, ever since Giao brought home a piglet who lost his mother and took care of him, her husband has been displeased. One day, in his frustration, he was determined to catch the piglet and give it away.
In his pursuit of the piglet, he perchance encountered an elder, the manifestation of a fairy, who offered him a cup of tea that made him fall asleep. In a strange dream, Nam saw that in his last life, he was a piglet living in the loving protection of his mother and his caretaker. But when the piglet and his mother found out that the caretaker only raised the piglet just to sell for money, they felt deep suffering.
What were you doing? Why did you get mad all of a sudden and pinch me in front of a stranger?
What do you mean “all of sudden”? Nothing happens “all of sudden,” you hear? I almost forgot about it already. I already let it lie buried in the grave of the past. It’s you who re-ignited the flame of fury in my heart. You plan to be “a horse accustomed to the old way”?
You can’t label a man a horse like you do a woman.
Be quiet! You argue?
Look, you got jealous for no reason. This is just business, work for food.
Sure. Who works without food, right?
It’s a waste to lose this deal. You keep bringing up the old tales.
Who brought it up? Who? Wasn’t it your mouth which brought it up?
Right. Because I just remembered.
What did you remember? What? Me, I already forgot it. I tried to forget your wrongdoings so we could live in harmony and work together for our future. (I know.) And you... (What?) Maybe you still wait for an opportunity to escape my notice and repeat the past?
You’re always jealous and picking on me. That was a long time ago and you make it sound like new.
Those things were of the past but this is happening just now.
What just now?
If I wasn’t firm to stop you, you’d commit it again easily.
I’m mad at you. (What?) In the future, when you go do business, just go by yourself. Why bring me along and get all jealous?
I want to, I like to. So what? If I leave you at home, you wouldn’t make trouble somehow? It happens even when I’m right next to you, much less when I leave you home alone! Let me tell you. Sáu’s wife from the upper hamlet, Hai Thàng’s wife by the Uncle Shrine, and Tư Đắng’s wife from Narrow Ditch, you allegedly helped them raise pigs as an excuse. You said you visited them to pass on your experience. What experience? Raising pigs’ experience or hanky-panky experience?
Just those people. You know I stopped already.
What about those I don’t know?
Then I keep. (You keep?) No, no. I quit.
So there are others, right? Who? Where? (No, no more.) Speak! Are you going to tell me?
Take it easy. You scare me out of my wits. Don’t yell; I have a weak heart.
What heart? Speak!
What’s wrong with you? You asked trick questions, making me answer in confusion, then you get jealous. There’s no one else. Now you’re always with me everywhere I go. You’re right next to my skin, how can I do anything to make you jealous? I’m so tired of this!
Let me forewarn you. If you repeat this time, we’ll go separate ways. I’ll have nothing to do with you anymore.
What are you doing?
Oh God! How wonderful!
How dare you talk like that! Woe to you! (Ouch!) Woe to you!
Wife, wife! It hurts! I’m just kidding. We just joke for fun once in a while. All right, forgive me. I wouldn’t dare again. From now on, if I’m involved with anyone else, you can divorce me.
Remember what you said.
Of course.
Let’s go home!
So lovely was this early morn As clouds were drifting across the sky Cuddling together, Mommy and I Unaware of the befalling tragedy!
See that? The piglet has grown up now. He looks so chubby and delicious.
Delicious!
Keeping my promise with you two, I didn’t sell to anyone else. Yesterday, a dealer came asking, but I didn’t sell to him. I’m intent on reserving the pig for you.
You should save it for me!
I know you’re someone who keeps her word. My husband wanted to buy the big ones in the other village. He already put down the deposit, but I didn’t agree. You’re our friend, so I give you priority.
But it’s unfortunate for you. In the past few days, pigs’ prices have dropped sharply.
It’s dropped a lot, sister.
We merchants just manage to keep our trade, because lately we’ve made no profits. No profit at all. On our luckiest days, we’d just break even.
My husband was telling the truth, sister. These days, pigs’ price dropped severely. It’s right during a vegetarian month; no one cares for meat. If you can hang on till next month, you probably will get a better deal. How sad!
What do you think?
What do you think?
I feel so sorry for you.
Yes, very pitiful!
We’re trying to buy.
What now, sister?
Please understand my situation. I’m desperate for money lately. I bought bran on credit. Now people know my pig has matured. They pressure me to pay my debt. Last night, I calculated very carefully. This time, I’m in for a big loss.
I know your difficulty, that’s why my husband was thinking of buying the pigs from the upper hamlet. How about this? You give me some discount. Then I’ll weigh the pig immediately to send him to the storehouse this morning. How’s that?
Oh, no! (What?) Please reconsider. I’ll be in trouble to sell at that price. Don’t you see? From the upper to lower village, where can you find such a fat, round, fleshy pig? You bring this pig home and wait until your baby’s first birthday, then cut him up, offer to the altar and celebrate with the neighbors. After this, you’ll receive a lot of praise.
Actually, I already thought about that, but unfortunately pigs’ price has dropped so low. I dare not take a risk; my wife will scold me.
What an unpalatable thing you said! I’ve always been a gentle person. Oh God!
What you said may make her think that I stand in the way. If you think it’s profitable, then go ahead and buy, but don’t be quick to blame me. I’ll do as you say; profit or loss, it’s your problem.
See that? Because I pity your situation, so my wife and I end up fighting. But if I leave you, I also regret. (What?) I mean, we have no heart. But if we buy at that price, poor us!
Because you wanted to help me, you two got into an argument. To be honest, I feel so uneasy. Fine. Go ahead and weigh the pig.
Weigh?
That’s the way to go! Let’s do that.
Weigh, honey!
All right, let’s weigh him.
What did you say?
You see? (What?) Thanks to me, you got a low price. We’re in for a big profit this time. (Hey, hey!) What?
Keep your voice down. If she hears us, she’ll change her mind.
I forgot.
Let me call my assistant waiting outside to come in and help my husband to catch the pig.
Let him do it.
O Tám! Come help me catch the pig.
You’re here to catch a pig but so slow like a turtle. Quick!
Hurry, son!
Good pig! Sweet pig! Get into the cage to go home with me, and I’ll reward you a pot of boiling water. I mean, a pot of bran.
Two brawny young men Strong like tigers and elephants Squashed my tiny body Flat into a cage of horror! There was no way to escape! O God, what purgatory was this? O God, what purgatory was this?
Be understanding, all right? Now you must go to another place. Don’t be mad at me. Ouch! Oh God! You betraying pig! How dare you bite me! I’ll beat you dead. I’ll beat you dead.
Stop it! Stop it! Don’t beat him. He’s mine now. Tám! Go wait for me outside.
What a betraying pig! He dared to bite me. I must beat him. You pig! I’ll beat you.
Enough! Enough, sister. He’s my pig now. You can’t just do whatever you want. I already paid for him. You’re holding my money, can’t you see?
The deal is already finalized. If you accidentally kill the pig, what are we to do?
That’s right. My husband is correct. The pig is ours now. If you overdid it, and the pig died, you have to compensate ten times his value. Where do you get the money to pay me?
I’ve worked so hard to raise this pig. I’ve lost skin and bone to be able to sell him to you.
I wouldn’t expect that everything changed right after payment. How frustrating for me, a pig farmer who works hard all her life! The money I made was nothing compared to my labor. On top of that, I’m scorned by people. The animal I raised also settled his debt. I’m going to quit raising pigs from now on. Oh God! It hurts so much! His bite hurts so much!
Don’t cry, honey! Be good, love!
I mean, I feel so sorry for you.
Go dab on some medicated oil, sister. The pig just bit you a little. What’s the big deal? (Big deal.) “The rich getting a finger cut is like a beggar having his body split.”
Well, it’s getting late already. Who has time for all the whining? Carry the pig to the storehouse. Go!
I’m leaving now.
What?
Remember to save the next pig for me.
Hurry up! Let’s go.
Okay.
Well, we’re going home.
I wailed in fear and terror Mom, oh Mom, please save me! Oh caretaker, please come protect me quickly! Rescue my life, I’m still at a tender age!
Mom was crying out in sorrow Tears of desperation filling her eyes The immense Heavens cannot contain This horrendous emotional pain!
My caretaker turned away Hands busy counting a stack of money Haplessly I rolled around in the car trunk Breaking heart more painful than bodily misery!
The two young men bantered: “This piglet will be so tasty! Tomorrow we’ll slaughter him To celebrate the birth of the wife’s newborn baby!!”
I told you many times already. Just ignore what farmers say. They worked hard to raise the pigs and had to sell dirt cheap. Who wouldn’t feel heartbroken? If it were you, I’m sure you would scold and throw people out of the house.
What? I hate how she’s sticky like malt, bargaining back and forth like a kid. She’s lucky that I bought her pig. If it were other pig dealers, she’d be buried alive.
I know that. We buy fast and at lower prices than others. That’s the important thing. They can say whatever they want. We do whatever is profitable for us.
Of course!
You argued with them for every word. It’s the way of women and children, indeed!
Well, we’ve won big time. Why talk anymore about it? Now, what do you plan to do with this pig? This pig here.
What is there to discuss? The knife is sharpened and ready over there.
I really regret losing him. Can you re-think this? We’ll make a lot of money selling him.
What money? I already invited all the pig dealers. We can’t go back on them.
But I feel it’s a real waste. You just want to please your palate. Your wife and children must endure the loss of money. You’re always like that. I’m tired of it!
It’s our child’s first birthday, and you even calculate gain and loss. I’ve craved for this pig for a very long time. Look at his legs! Goodness! They are firm just like yours. Oh legs! Look, how adorable! I’m intent on making blood pudding. I haven’t had a drink with friends for a few days already. My arms and legs are too shaky to do anything. I take care of this family’s income all by myself. I need to enjoy, do you understand? Don’t treat me like a servant. You haven’t gone to the market for two weeks. Soon I’ll become a hungry ghost, you know?
How can you say that? If I save money, it’s for your children. In case we won’t be in business later, or it’s hard to make a profit, where’s the money to buy you food?
You always find all kinds of excuses about the family to be stingy with me. (That’s right.) Today’s party isn’t just for me to enjoy alone, but to celebrate our child’s first birthday.
No matter what I say, you still want to slaughter this pig soon. Fine, fine. Do what you want. If I keep talking, you’ll say I’m against your wishes. I’m too tired!
There! How adorable you are! All these years I’ve lived with you, this is the first time I’ve heard something pleasant from you. Why don’t you go check if the water is boiling yet? What are you standing there for? If the water has boiled, then bring it here for me. Watching this delicious-looking pig, I’m drooling. I can’t stand it!
Troublesome! Wait a bit!
Don’t! Don’t do that. Please don’t kill me! I don’t want to die. I don’t want to die. I was born only to be your friend. Don’t boil the water, and don’t sharpen the knife. I don’t want to die. I really don’t want to die. Though my look is different than yours, though you can’t understand my speech, though I don’t have pretty clothes to cover a wicked heart nor do I know how to make money and devise inhumane schemes, please give me your love and let me live out my entire life in this borrowed form. Let me pay my debt in this suffering existence to return to a human form. Who’d understand my words? Though in an animal form, I think and feel like a human. Please don’t end my life unjustly!
My God! What a loud pig! You’ll die soon; why are you screaming so much? You’re shouting your last words? Shouting your last words? Screaming? Near death and still wailing! What an unlikeable face!
Where are you? Wife! (Yes.) Bring the boiling water out quickly for me.
Hurry up! The fire is probably going out.
Easy! What’s the rush? My hands are getting burned here.
I just asked you that much. What burning? Just for that, you’re so slow. How come you’re so quick at putting money in your pocket?
Who wouldn’t?
I speak your mind, so you stand there laughing. Look at you laughing, goodness! Hold this pig for me, will you?
All right, here!
Hold him a little bit. Hold him down!
He struggles so much. How can I...
Goodbye, pig! Come back as a human next life, son.
Yeah. Be a human next life, son.
Oh, how ironic this life My soul is shattered Tears flow in my heart Like blood running in rivulets.
I thought you loved me Nurturing me to maturity But all this was a sham For you, it’s just profit and gain!
Tomorrow my body will be cut to pieces My flesh and bones turned to sheer torture Just so people can laugh in merriment At their happy feast and gathering.
To your children and others’ too I wish them all long lives So the family can stay together Not endure the same fate as mine…
I pray the whole family lives nobly To be human in many lifetimes And never be reborn as pigs Paying forever karmic debts!
Alas, good-bye life… I ache for my gentle suffering mother In tears I am overcome… Oh, Mommy! Mom…Mom… Oh, Mommy! Mom…Mom…
Don’t! Don’t kill me! I don’t want to die! I don’t want to die!
Nam! Nam! O honey! Wake up, honey.
There you are! Where are you going, looking panicked?
You’ve been sleeping here, but I kept searching for you. I thought you were mad at me about the piglet and left me. I’m so happy to find you here.
We’ve been together for a few years as a poor couple. In times of sickness or hardships, we never left each other’s side. How could I leave you just because of such a trivial matter?
O honey! How come you are perspiring all over? Do you have a cold? Let me take you home and give you a steam bath of herbs.
O honey, I had a dream. That miraculous dream revealed to me my past life. It’s like the miraculous light that illuminates my ignorant mind. I know clearly who I was in a previous life. O, how amazing! It’s the most beautiful dream in my life. I understand I’m really not this physical body. In a very distant past life, I was an animal. After a tragic lifetime, I reincarnated as a human.
What you said sounds so strange to me. How complicated and pitiful is a human’s life! I don’t fully understand it. Please explain to me thoroughly. Is it because you’re falling ill so your dream was full of illusions? Well, listen to me and go home soon. I’ll prepare medicine for you.
No. In a deep dream, I went back to a past life when I was a piglet suckling my mother’s milk and still heard the human voices. I lived fully a non-human life, experiencing the joy of animals and the agony of having my flesh cut and my skin split. After a life full of vicissitudes, I understood clearly the animals’ sad plight. And my dream today has let me realize the truth, so I learn to cherish more the lives of all beings.
If what you said is the truth, it’s also a miracle remedy helping me become a more benevolent person.
That dream has allowed me to grasp what is happening. I feel sorry for my life and for the piglet that I have rejected and driven away.
Your words make me happier than being offered gold and silver. I love the piglet like my own flesh and blood. Those days when you got angry, scolded and dismissed him, I was pained like my own child was rejected. I pity him being an orphan, having no parents. In chilly windy nights, he has but a ragged cloth to cover himself. Hearing his wailing like a child crying, I feel tormented as if he’s a small child in our family.
From now on, I promise you that we’ll take care of him together because he isn’t simply a non-sentient species but a living being as well.
Thank you for understanding and sharing with me. From now on, under our poor thatched roof, we husband and wife will find happiness.
What’s the young couple so happy about? May this old man share some of it?
O elder, I’ve realized a great and wonderful truth today. I cherish life more. I love my wife more and I love the piglet too.
Earlier this morning, you still chased after him. Why do you change now all of a sudden?
O elder, I was wrong in my way of looking at the animals. After my dream, for the first time in my life I feel that the piglet should be loved instead of rejected and driven away. Within that tiny physical form lies the trace of a human’s past life. I hope that humanity soon awakens to respect the life of all beings around us.
Unfortunately, not everyone in this world is blessed with a miraculous dream like you. So people continue to be immersed in the sea of sin and ignorance. Their speech, their actions, and their meals are all tainted with sin. Yet they think they are practicing spiritually, purifying themselves, and doing virtuous deeds in Heaven. Because of this, the transmigration goes on to bitter retribution. My thinking is simple. If we do good deeds, we’ll reap good consequences. If we sow bad karma (retribution), we’ll surely receive unfavorable results. What we sow, so shall we reap. That is the law of cause and effect. But once we fully grasp the law of cause and effect, our deeds will become more benevolent and in the next life we’ll reap all the goodness.
Thank you for helping me understand more about the law of cause and effect. I now know how to avoid suffering in future life.
If you can think like that, you’ve already grasped the root of retribution. I’m sure that from now on your life will be better. I wish the two of you live happily and be able to fulfill your wishes.
We’re very grateful to you. Thank you, sir.
All right, I’m going home.
Let’s go, honey.
Yes, love. Wait, my piglet is over there. Let’s go home, my little piglet.
O piglet! Let’s go home.
Supreme Master Ching Hai has sent gifts, her love and well-wishes to the artists and professionals contributing to the modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution),” broadcast on Supreme Master Television. They expressed their appreciation for Master’s caring concern.
Playwright Hoàng Song Việt:
First, I like to extend my respectful greetings to all viewers. Regarding the opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution)” which I wrote, I think it’s a very normal thing in our lives. Whatever we do will bring us some consequences. The difference is that we know how to discern right from wrong, good from bad to conduct ourselves in life. Right understanding, right judgment, and right action will bring us good results.
Wrong understanding, wrong action, and wrong conduct will bring us bad consequences. According to Buddhism, it is called retribution. That's what the opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution)” wants to remind those of us living in this present life. Examine ourselves and find for ourselves the path to a good, righteous and honest life. Regarding vegetarianism, aside from avoiding killing as Buddhists often remind one another, people who eat vegetarian may have other purposes, such as to protect their health, to purify the body, or to avoid eating too much protein.
Not only people but animals, pets, birds, as well as nature around us, all have their own souls. Therefore, when we do something which affects others around us, we immediately need to think whether our action is helpful or harmful. I was very surprised to receive a gift from Supreme Master Ching Hai who thinks of the humble effort I contributed to this opera.
I’m deeply touched by this. I would like to convey to Supreme Master Ching Hai my most sincere gratitude. And hopefully, if affinity allows, I’m very willing to collaborate with Master on other operas. I respectfully send Master my gratefulness and best wishes for Master’s health.
Artist of Merit Tấn Giao, in the role of Nam:
Amitabha Buddha be praised! First, I would like to send my best regards to Supreme Master Ching Hai. I’m very happy to talk to Master. I would like to wish Master good health and wish Master good luck always in life, as well as abounding happiness.
“A Tale of Karma (Retribution)” was based on the poem “Words of a Piglet.” I played the main character in the opera, and I was very touched. In my opinion, I think an animal also has thoughts and feelings. I feel it’s similar just like us humans. When I played that role, to be honest, I was very moved. My feeling seemed to blend in with that of the artistic staff and filming crew. I felt close like we were family. When the program editors invited me to join, I was very glad and immediately accepted the role without any thought.
I found that this opera is very good. And I was determined to convey it in such a way that would help viewers realize very clearly that if we do bad things, we will receive bad consequences. I think in this world, the law of cause and effect is very close. An animal is just like a human. We should not reject them, eat their flesh, or whatever. I think if we do cruel things, we will get back cruelty in return. I also hope that this opera will be a success with the public, a total, wonderful success. I thank you very much.
Due to limited time, in next week’s program we’ll continue with genuine words from actor Tiểu Bảo Quốc, actress Yến Nhung, painter Phương Tần, and studio secretary Nguyễn Đình Trực, as well as the artists’ call for “Be Veg, Go Green 2 Save the Planet!”
We gratefully appreciate all artists and professionals who contributed in the modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution),” which conveys a message of peace, bringing numerous benefits to the multitude. We wish you and your family abundant blessings in Divine grace. May the field of modern folk opera as well as other traditional arts continue to thrive to illuminate noble qualities within each of us.
In Aulacese (Vietnamese) culture, cải lương (modern folk opera) is a popular theater art that dates back about three centuries, when the flourishing South was a new land. Among those who settled in the South at that time were musicians from the royal palace in the ancient capital Huế. Since then, the kind of ceremonial music often heard in the palace became more widely known among the populace.
Eventually, new songs were composed. Many amateur musical groups were formed, adopting music and song as a form of elegant entertainment. From about 1912 to 1915, the artists of these musical groups began to combine gestures to their songs. Since then, a new genre called ca ra bộ was born. Performers conversed; sometimes a song would be used as dialogue. Ca ra bộ continued to develop to create the theatrical art that is now called modern folk opera.
The orchestra for Aulacese modern folk opera usually consists of the six-string guitar, the moon lute, the pear-shaped lute, two-string fiddle, sixteen-string zither, and monochord zither. The themes of Aulacese modern folk opera highlight humanitarian and moral values. The dialogues are profound, the song lyrics and tunes are rhythmic and rich in melody. These are some of the reasons cải lương (modern folk opera) has an enduring place in the hearts of the Aulacese people.
In the Lunar New Year 2007, during an outdoor gathering with our Association members in Formosa (Taiwan), Supreme Master Ching Hai was moved to spontaneously sing a folk opera song “Spiritual Practice is a Source of Blessing” written by Mr. Viễn Châu, which she knew by heart since her youth. We now invite you to listen to an excerpt of this folk opera song through the voice of Supreme Master Ching Hai.
Kneeling down, she sobs in the main hall of worship
As the temple bell sounds the hour of prayer
O young devotee, why do you wish to be a nun?
Finding comfort in the scriptures, and acquainting yourself with spiritual practice?
But how can you achieve enlightenment when earthly traces are still evident on your seasoned countenance?
Are you rid of worldly debt or are still entangled?
Did you renounce the world because glory and fame have lost their appeal and life seems like an abyss?
Or was it because of a fleeting moment of jealousy and distress that you intend to hide yourself behind the temple’s gate to bury your grief and forget your sorrow?
On Enlightening Entertainment, Supreme Master Television is pleased to introduce different forms of arts from Âu Lạc (Vietnam), as well as from other countries in the world, in order to share the beauty and cultures of the peoples on our planet.
Respected viewers, this week, we are honored to present the conclusion of the world premiere of the Aulacese (Vietnamese) modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution),” specially based on the poem “Words of a Piglet” written by Supreme Master Ching Hai in her late 20s, through the adaptation of musician Thái An and playwright Hoàng Song Việt.
A vegetarian since her youth, Supreme Master Ching Hai highly values the life of all beings, be they family pets or birds in the wild, humble tiny insects or powerful animals like elephants, bears and others who unfortunately have been captured for human entertainment. Supreme Master Ching Hai has always felt much sorrow for the plight of animals facing heartless treatments. Therefore, since her youth, she has written poems reflecting sentiments of our animal co-habitants, such as “A Puppy’s Heart,” “Words of a Hen,” and “Words of a Piglet.”
Furthermore, Supreme Master Ching Hai is also the author of three #1 international bestsellers. “The Dogs in My Life,” “The Birds in My Life,” and “The Noble Wilds,” originally written in English, have been translated into several languages such as Aulacese (Vietnamese), Polish, Korean, German, Mongolian, Indonesian, Russian, Japanese, French, Spanish, and Chinese.
Her dedicated efforts are reminders to human beings of the noble qualities and love of our animal friends, who always sacrifice themselves, offer loyalty and forgiveness, and bring wonderful gifts into our lives.
Unfortunately, the current fate of our animal friends on Earth is full of miseries. Every year, 140 billion animal co-habitants are killed to supply the meat, egg and dairy industries all over the world. In the United States alone, more than 100 million pig friends are slaughtered each year. That is not to mention the millions of animal friends being killed in laboratories every year; millions of dogs and cats killed in shelters for stray animals; and many animal friends who die from being tortured for “entertainment” in the circus, bull fighting, cock fighting, horse racing, dog racing, and so on.
In past decades, during her lectures around the world Supreme Master Ching Hai has always advised Earth citizens to return to the path of love and to stop the killing. In recent years, due to the urgency of climate change, she has compassionately responded to requests to speak in many videoconferences and answer questions from the public about the most effective solution for now and the future.
Her message, simple yet profound and accurate in every aspect, from science, economy, health, to spirituality, has become a slogan enthusiastically supported by distinguished organizations and individuals in society including scientists, government officials, medical professionals, artists, athletes, and celebrities: “Be Veg, Go Green, 2 Save the Planet!”
During the launch of the Aulacese (Vietnamese) edition of “The Birds in My Life” in Pathumthani, Thailand on October 11, 2008, Supreme Master Ching Hai, as author and guest of honor, addressed via videoconference questions from the audience including Aulacese scientists, physicians, professors, and artists about the importance of animal friends on Earth.
Because these helpless animals, they don’t do anything to harm us, but only bring joy to beautify the life of humanity. To take it a step further, they also show us unconditional love.
One should not commit acts of cruelty, like confining animals in such anguishing and miserable conditions. But humans haven’t yet understood, thus, they continue to do those things. So, we hope that one day the whole world will awaken and love and care for one another, including all the innocent animals so that Heaven and Earth have mercy on us and spare our lives, as well as the lives of our children, so that the planet can survive for everyone to enjoy. Indeed, saving the planet is considered humanity’s top priority today.
In early June 2010, the United Nations Environment Program called upon the world to switch to a vegan diet to save the Earth. Mr. Achim Steiner, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program, explained the disastrous consequences of livestock farming. He said,
“Two broad areas are currently having a disproportionately high impact on people and the planet’s life support systems - these are energy in the form of fossil fuels and agriculture, especially the raising of livestock for meat and dairy products.” In the report titled “Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Production and Consumption,” researchers clearly stated,
“A substantial reduction of impacts would only be possible with a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products.” The fact that a United Nations agency urgently requests humankind to implement “a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products” reflects the ultimate goal of saving this planet from self destruction.
Right from the beginning, animals were never meant to be food for humans. In addition, animals also have their own thoughts and overflowing feelings. Please now join us to listen to heartfelt sentiments of an animal friend very close in our lives through the verses of Supreme Master Ching Hai in the poem “Words of a Piglet.”
The day I met you first Was the day of my birth Pink and round, me oh so plump With Mom I gaily frolicked.
Lovingly you looked at me Praising, “Oh, so round, what a cutie!” Every day you came by to visit Bringing cool water and delicious veggie treats.
Mommy and I were so touched Your kindness worth more than gold I lived a peaceful life Under your care and protection Growing more plump with each passing day Just eat, rest and play…
So lovely was this early morn As clouds were drifting across the sky Cuddling together, Mommy and I Unaware of the befalling tragedy!
Two brawny young men Strong like tigers and elephants Squashed my tiny body Flat into a cage of horror! There was no way to escape! O God, what purgatory was this?
I wailed in fear and terror Mom, oh Mom, please save me! Oh caretaker, please come protect me quickly! Rescue my life, I’m still at a tender age!
Mom was crying out in sorrow Tears of desperation filling her eyes The immense Heavens cannot contain This horrendous emotional pain!
My caretaker turned away Hands busy counting a stack of money Haplessly I rolled around in the car trunk Breaking heart more painful than bodily misery!
The two young men bantered: “This piglet will be so tasty! Tomorrow we’ll slaughter him To celebrate the birth of the wife’s newborn baby!!”
Oh, how ironic this life My soul is shattered Tears flow in my heart Like blood running in rivulets.
I thought you loved me Nurturing me to maturity But all this was a sham For you, it’s just profit and gain!
Tomorrow my body will be cut to pieces My flesh and bones turned to sheer torture Just so people can laugh in merriment At their happy feast and gathering.
To your children and others’ too I wish them all long lives So the family can stay together Not endure the same fate as mine…
I pray the whole family lives nobly To be human in many lifetimes And never be reborn as pigs Paying forever karmic debts!
Alas, good-bye life… I ache for my gentle suffering mother In tears I am overcome… Oh, Mommy! Mom…Mom…
You have listened to the poem “Words of a Piglet,” written by Supreme Master Ching Hai in her late 20s. These moving verses have been adapted into an Aulacese (Vietnamese) modern folk opera titled “A Tale of Karma ##(Retribution)” by musician Thái An and playwright Hoàng Song Việt, and directed by Mr. Lê Lộc.
We now invite you to enjoy the conclusion of the modern folk opera titled “A Tale of Karma (Retribution),”performed by Artist of Merit Mr. Tấn Giao as Nam, Ms. Như Quỳnh as Giao, Mr. Tiểu Bảo Quốc as Tự, Ms. Thy Phương as Gia, Mr. Hữu Tài as the Elder Fairy, Ms. Hồng Thủy as the Mother Pig, and Ms. Yến Nhung as the Pig Caretaker.
Thank you for your company on today’s Enlightening Entertainment. Words of Wisdom is coming up. Please tune in on Supreme Master Television next Thursday for the Aulacese chèo traditional opera entitled “The Third Princess” by playwright Trần Trí Trắc. May your life be filled with peace, happiness and noble love. We bid you farewell for now.
Last week, we learned about a married couple, Nam and Giao, who lived happily together in a thatched house by the woods. However, ever since Giao brought home a piglet who lost his mother and took care of him, her husband has been displeased. One day, in his frustration, he was determined to catch the piglet and give it away.
In his pursuit of the piglet, he perchance encountered an elder, the manifestation of a fairy, who offered him a cup of tea that made him fall asleep. In a strange dream, Nam saw that in his last life, he was a piglet living in the loving protection of his mother and his caretaker. But when the piglet and his mother found out that the caretaker only raised the piglet just to sell for money, they felt deep suffering.
What were you doing? Why did you get mad all of a sudden and pinch me in front of a stranger?
What do you mean “all of sudden”? Nothing happens “all of sudden,” you hear? I almost forgot about it already. I already let it lie buried in the grave of the past. It’s you who re-ignited the flame of fury in my heart. You plan to be “a horse accustomed to the old way”?
You can’t label a man a horse like you do a woman.
Be quiet! You argue?
Look, you got jealous for no reason. This is just business, work for food.
Sure. Who works without food, right?
It’s a waste to lose this deal. You keep bringing up the old tales.
Who brought it up? Who? Wasn’t it your mouth which brought it up?
Right. Because I just remembered.
What did you remember? What? Me, I already forgot it. I tried to forget your wrongdoings so we could live in harmony and work together for our future. (I know.) And you... (What?) Maybe you still wait for an opportunity to escape my notice and repeat the past?
You’re always jealous and picking on me. That was a long time ago and you make it sound like new.
Those things were of the past but this is happening just now.
What just now?
If I wasn’t firm to stop you, you’d commit it again easily.
I’m mad at you. (What?) In the future, when you go do business, just go by yourself. Why bring me along and get all jealous?
I want to, I like to. So what? If I leave you at home, you wouldn’t make trouble somehow? It happens even when I’m right next to you, much less when I leave you home alone! Let me tell you. Sáu’s wife from the upper hamlet, Hai Thàng’s wife by the Uncle Shrine, and Tư Đắng’s wife from Narrow Ditch, you allegedly helped them raise pigs as an excuse. You said you visited them to pass on your experience. What experience? Raising pigs’ experience or hanky-panky experience?
Just those people. You know I stopped already.
What about those I don’t know?
Then I keep. (You keep?) No, no. I quit.
So there are others, right? Who? Where? (No, no more.) Speak! Are you going to tell me?
Take it easy. You scare me out of my wits. Don’t yell; I have a weak heart.
What heart? Speak!
What’s wrong with you? You asked trick questions, making me answer in confusion, then you get jealous. There’s no one else. Now you’re always with me everywhere I go. You’re right next to my skin, how can I do anything to make you jealous? I’m so tired of this!
Let me forewarn you. If you repeat this time, we’ll go separate ways. I’ll have nothing to do with you anymore.
What are you doing?
Oh God! How wonderful!
How dare you talk like that! Woe to you! (Ouch!) Woe to you!
Wife, wife! It hurts! I’m just kidding. We just joke for fun once in a while. All right, forgive me. I wouldn’t dare again. From now on, if I’m involved with anyone else, you can divorce me.
Remember what you said.
Of course.
Let’s go home!
So lovely was this early morn As clouds were drifting across the sky Cuddling together, Mommy and I Unaware of the befalling tragedy!
See that? The piglet has grown up now. He looks so chubby and delicious.
Delicious!
Keeping my promise with you two, I didn’t sell to anyone else. Yesterday, a dealer came asking, but I didn’t sell to him. I’m intent on reserving the pig for you.
You should save it for me!
I know you’re someone who keeps her word. My husband wanted to buy the big ones in the other village. He already put down the deposit, but I didn’t agree. You’re our friend, so I give you priority.
But it’s unfortunate for you. In the past few days, pigs’ prices have dropped sharply.
It’s dropped a lot, sister.
We merchants just manage to keep our trade, because lately we’ve made no profits. No profit at all. On our luckiest days, we’d just break even.
My husband was telling the truth, sister. These days, pigs’ price dropped severely. It’s right during a vegetarian month; no one cares for meat. If you can hang on till next month, you probably will get a better deal. How sad!
What do you think?
What do you think?
I feel so sorry for you.
Yes, very pitiful!
We’re trying to buy.
What now, sister?
Please understand my situation. I’m desperate for money lately. I bought bran on credit. Now people know my pig has matured. They pressure me to pay my debt. Last night, I calculated very carefully. This time, I’m in for a big loss.
I know your difficulty, that’s why my husband was thinking of buying the pigs from the upper hamlet. How about this? You give me some discount. Then I’ll weigh the pig immediately to send him to the storehouse this morning. How’s that?
Oh, no! (What?) Please reconsider. I’ll be in trouble to sell at that price. Don’t you see? From the upper to lower village, where can you find such a fat, round, fleshy pig? You bring this pig home and wait until your baby’s first birthday, then cut him up, offer to the altar and celebrate with the neighbors. After this, you’ll receive a lot of praise.
Actually, I already thought about that, but unfortunately pigs’ price has dropped so low. I dare not take a risk; my wife will scold me.
What an unpalatable thing you said! I’ve always been a gentle person. Oh God!
What you said may make her think that I stand in the way. If you think it’s profitable, then go ahead and buy, but don’t be quick to blame me. I’ll do as you say; profit or loss, it’s your problem.
See that? Because I pity your situation, so my wife and I end up fighting. But if I leave you, I also regret. (What?) I mean, we have no heart. But if we buy at that price, poor us!
Because you wanted to help me, you two got into an argument. To be honest, I feel so uneasy. Fine. Go ahead and weigh the pig.
Weigh?
That’s the way to go! Let’s do that.
Weigh, honey!
All right, let’s weigh him.
What did you say?
You see? (What?) Thanks to me, you got a low price. We’re in for a big profit this time. (Hey, hey!) What?
Keep your voice down. If she hears us, she’ll change her mind.
I forgot.
Let me call my assistant waiting outside to come in and help my husband to catch the pig.
Let him do it.
O Tám! Come help me catch the pig.
You’re here to catch a pig but so slow like a turtle. Quick!
Hurry, son!
Good pig! Sweet pig! Get into the cage to go home with me, and I’ll reward you a pot of boiling water. I mean, a pot of bran.
Two brawny young men Strong like tigers and elephants Squashed my tiny body Flat into a cage of horror! There was no way to escape! O God, what purgatory was this? O God, what purgatory was this?
Be understanding, all right? Now you must go to another place. Don’t be mad at me. Ouch! Oh God! You betraying pig! How dare you bite me! I’ll beat you dead. I’ll beat you dead.
Stop it! Stop it! Don’t beat him. He’s mine now. Tám! Go wait for me outside.
What a betraying pig! He dared to bite me. I must beat him. You pig! I’ll beat you.
Enough! Enough, sister. He’s my pig now. You can’t just do whatever you want. I already paid for him. You’re holding my money, can’t you see?
The deal is already finalized. If you accidentally kill the pig, what are we to do?
That’s right. My husband is correct. The pig is ours now. If you overdid it, and the pig died, you have to compensate ten times his value. Where do you get the money to pay me?
I’ve worked so hard to raise this pig. I’ve lost skin and bone to be able to sell him to you.
I wouldn’t expect that everything changed right after payment. How frustrating for me, a pig farmer who works hard all her life! The money I made was nothing compared to my labor. On top of that, I’m scorned by people. The animal I raised also settled his debt. I’m going to quit raising pigs from now on. Oh God! It hurts so much! His bite hurts so much!
Don’t cry, honey! Be good, love!
I mean, I feel so sorry for you.
Go dab on some medicated oil, sister. The pig just bit you a little. What’s the big deal? (Big deal.) “The rich getting a finger cut is like a beggar having his body split.”
Well, it’s getting late already. Who has time for all the whining? Carry the pig to the storehouse. Go!
I’m leaving now.
What?
Remember to save the next pig for me.
Hurry up! Let’s go.
Okay.
Well, we’re going home.
I wailed in fear and terror Mom, oh Mom, please save me! Oh caretaker, please come protect me quickly! Rescue my life, I’m still at a tender age!
Mom was crying out in sorrow Tears of desperation filling her eyes The immense Heavens cannot contain This horrendous emotional pain!
My caretaker turned away Hands busy counting a stack of money Haplessly I rolled around in the car trunk Breaking heart more painful than bodily misery!
The two young men bantered: “This piglet will be so tasty! Tomorrow we’ll slaughter him To celebrate the birth of the wife’s newborn baby!!”
I told you many times already. Just ignore what farmers say. They worked hard to raise the pigs and had to sell dirt cheap. Who wouldn’t feel heartbroken? If it were you, I’m sure you would scold and throw people out of the house.
What? I hate how she’s sticky like malt, bargaining back and forth like a kid. She’s lucky that I bought her pig. If it were other pig dealers, she’d be buried alive.
I know that. We buy fast and at lower prices than others. That’s the important thing. They can say whatever they want. We do whatever is profitable for us.
Of course!
You argued with them for every word. It’s the way of women and children, indeed!
Well, we’ve won big time. Why talk anymore about it? Now, what do you plan to do with this pig? This pig here.
What is there to discuss? The knife is sharpened and ready over there.
I really regret losing him. Can you re-think this? We’ll make a lot of money selling him.
What money? I already invited all the pig dealers. We can’t go back on them.
But I feel it’s a real waste. You just want to please your palate. Your wife and children must endure the loss of money. You’re always like that. I’m tired of it!
It’s our child’s first birthday, and you even calculate gain and loss. I’ve craved for this pig for a very long time. Look at his legs! Goodness! They are firm just like yours. Oh legs! Look, how adorable! I’m intent on making blood pudding. I haven’t had a drink with friends for a few days already. My arms and legs are too shaky to do anything. I take care of this family’s income all by myself. I need to enjoy, do you understand? Don’t treat me like a servant. You haven’t gone to the market for two weeks. Soon I’ll become a hungry ghost, you know?
How can you say that? If I save money, it’s for your children. In case we won’t be in business later, or it’s hard to make a profit, where’s the money to buy you food?
You always find all kinds of excuses about the family to be stingy with me. (That’s right.) Today’s party isn’t just for me to enjoy alone, but to celebrate our child’s first birthday.
No matter what I say, you still want to slaughter this pig soon. Fine, fine. Do what you want. If I keep talking, you’ll say I’m against your wishes. I’m too tired!
There! How adorable you are! All these years I’ve lived with you, this is the first time I’ve heard something pleasant from you. Why don’t you go check if the water is boiling yet? What are you standing there for? If the water has boiled, then bring it here for me. Watching this delicious-looking pig, I’m drooling. I can’t stand it!
Troublesome! Wait a bit!
Don’t! Don’t do that. Please don’t kill me! I don’t want to die. I don’t want to die. I was born only to be your friend. Don’t boil the water, and don’t sharpen the knife. I don’t want to die. I really don’t want to die. Though my look is different than yours, though you can’t understand my speech, though I don’t have pretty clothes to cover a wicked heart nor do I know how to make money and devise inhumane schemes, please give me your love and let me live out my entire life in this borrowed form. Let me pay my debt in this suffering existence to return to a human form. Who’d understand my words? Though in an animal form, I think and feel like a human. Please don’t end my life unjustly!
My God! What a loud pig! You’ll die soon; why are you screaming so much? You’re shouting your last words? Shouting your last words? Screaming? Near death and still wailing! What an unlikeable face!
Where are you? Wife! (Yes.) Bring the boiling water out quickly for me.
Hurry up! The fire is probably going out.
Easy! What’s the rush? My hands are getting burned here.
I just asked you that much. What burning? Just for that, you’re so slow. How come you’re so quick at putting money in your pocket?
Who wouldn’t?
I speak your mind, so you stand there laughing. Look at you laughing, goodness! Hold this pig for me, will you?
All right, here!
Hold him a little bit. Hold him down!
He struggles so much. How can I...
Goodbye, pig! Come back as a human next life, son.
Yeah. Be a human next life, son.
Oh, how ironic this life My soul is shattered Tears flow in my heart Like blood running in rivulets.
I thought you loved me Nurturing me to maturity But all this was a sham For you, it’s just profit and gain!
Tomorrow my body will be cut to pieces My flesh and bones turned to sheer torture Just so people can laugh in merriment At their happy feast and gathering.
To your children and others’ too I wish them all long lives So the family can stay together Not endure the same fate as mine…
I pray the whole family lives nobly To be human in many lifetimes And never be reborn as pigs Paying forever karmic debts!
Alas, good-bye life… I ache for my gentle suffering mother In tears I am overcome… Oh, Mommy! Mom…Mom… Oh, Mommy! Mom…Mom…
Don’t! Don’t kill me! I don’t want to die! I don’t want to die!
Nam! Nam! O honey! Wake up, honey.
There you are! Where are you going, looking panicked?
You’ve been sleeping here, but I kept searching for you. I thought you were mad at me about the piglet and left me. I’m so happy to find you here.
We’ve been together for a few years as a poor couple. In times of sickness or hardships, we never left each other’s side. How could I leave you just because of such a trivial matter?
O honey! How come you are perspiring all over? Do you have a cold? Let me take you home and give you a steam bath of herbs.
O honey, I had a dream. That miraculous dream revealed to me my past life. It’s like the miraculous light that illuminates my ignorant mind. I know clearly who I was in a previous life. O, how amazing! It’s the most beautiful dream in my life. I understand I’m really not this physical body. In a very distant past life, I was an animal. After a tragic lifetime, I reincarnated as a human.
What you said sounds so strange to me. How complicated and pitiful is a human’s life! I don’t fully understand it. Please explain to me thoroughly. Is it because you’re falling ill so your dream was full of illusions? Well, listen to me and go home soon. I’ll prepare medicine for you.
No. In a deep dream, I went back to a past life when I was a piglet suckling my mother’s milk and still heard the human voices. I lived fully a non-human life, experiencing the joy of animals and the agony of having my flesh cut and my skin split. After a life full of vicissitudes, I understood clearly the animals’ sad plight. And my dream today has let me realize the truth, so I learn to cherish more the lives of all beings.
If what you said is the truth, it’s also a miracle remedy helping me become a more benevolent person.
That dream has allowed me to grasp what is happening. I feel sorry for my life and for the piglet that I have rejected and driven away.
Your words make me happier than being offered gold and silver. I love the piglet like my own flesh and blood. Those days when you got angry, scolded and dismissed him, I was pained like my own child was rejected. I pity him being an orphan, having no parents. In chilly windy nights, he has but a ragged cloth to cover himself. Hearing his wailing like a child crying, I feel tormented as if he’s a small child in our family.
From now on, I promise you that we’ll take care of him together because he isn’t simply a non-sentient species but a living being as well.
Thank you for understanding and sharing with me. From now on, under our poor thatched roof, we husband and wife will find happiness.
What’s the young couple so happy about? May this old man share some of it?
O elder, I’ve realized a great and wonderful truth today. I cherish life more. I love my wife more and I love the piglet too.
Earlier this morning, you still chased after him. Why do you change now all of a sudden?
O elder, I was wrong in my way of looking at the animals. After my dream, for the first time in my life I feel that the piglet should be loved instead of rejected and driven away. Within that tiny physical form lies the trace of a human’s past life. I hope that humanity soon awakens to respect the life of all beings around us.
Unfortunately, not everyone in this world is blessed with a miraculous dream like you. So people continue to be immersed in the sea of sin and ignorance. Their speech, their actions, and their meals are all tainted with sin. Yet they think they are practicing spiritually, purifying themselves, and doing virtuous deeds in Heaven. Because of this, the transmigration goes on to bitter retribution. My thinking is simple. If we do good deeds, we’ll reap good consequences. If we sow bad karma (retribution), we’ll surely receive unfavorable results. What we sow, so shall we reap. That is the law of cause and effect. But once we fully grasp the law of cause and effect, our deeds will become more benevolent and in the next life we’ll reap all the goodness.
Thank you for helping me understand more about the law of cause and effect. I now know how to avoid suffering in future life.
If you can think like that, you’ve already grasped the root of retribution. I’m sure that from now on your life will be better. I wish the two of you live happily and be able to fulfill your wishes.
We’re very grateful to you. Thank you, sir.
All right, I’m going home.
Let’s go, honey.
Yes, love. Wait, my piglet is over there. Let’s go home, my little piglet.
O piglet! Let’s go home.
Supreme Master Ching Hai has sent gifts, her love and well-wishes to the artists and professionals contributing to the modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution),” broadcast on Supreme Master Television. They expressed their appreciation for Master’s caring concern.
Playwright Hoàng Song Việt:
First, I like to extend my respectful greetings to all viewers. Regarding the opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution)” which I wrote, I think it’s a very normal thing in our lives. Whatever we do will bring us some consequences. The difference is that we know how to discern right from wrong, good from bad to conduct ourselves in life. Right understanding, right judgment, and right action will bring us good results.
Wrong understanding, wrong action, and wrong conduct will bring us bad consequences. According to Buddhism, it is called retribution. That's what the opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution)” wants to remind those of us living in this present life. Examine ourselves and find for ourselves the path to a good, righteous and honest life. Regarding vegetarianism, aside from avoiding killing as Buddhists often remind one another, people who eat vegetarian may have other purposes, such as to protect their health, to purify the body, or to avoid eating too much protein.
Not only people but animals, pets, birds, as well as nature around us, all have their own souls. Therefore, when we do something which affects others around us, we immediately need to think whether our action is helpful or harmful. I was very surprised to receive a gift from Supreme Master Ching Hai who thinks of the humble effort I contributed to this opera.
I’m deeply touched by this. I would like to convey to Supreme Master Ching Hai my most sincere gratitude. And hopefully, if affinity allows, I’m very willing to collaborate with Master on other operas. I respectfully send Master my gratefulness and best wishes for Master’s health.
Artist of Merit Tấn Giao, in the role of Nam:
Amitabha Buddha be praised! First, I would like to send my best regards to Supreme Master Ching Hai. I’m very happy to talk to Master. I would like to wish Master good health and wish Master good luck always in life, as well as abounding happiness.
“A Tale of Karma (Retribution)” was based on the poem “Words of a Piglet.” I played the main character in the opera, and I was very touched. In my opinion, I think an animal also has thoughts and feelings. I feel it’s similar just like us humans. When I played that role, to be honest, I was very moved. My feeling seemed to blend in with that of the artistic staff and filming crew. I felt close like we were family. When the program editors invited me to join, I was very glad and immediately accepted the role without any thought.
I found that this opera is very good. And I was determined to convey it in such a way that would help viewers realize very clearly that if we do bad things, we will receive bad consequences. I think in this world, the law of cause and effect is very close. An animal is just like a human. We should not reject them, eat their flesh, or whatever. I think if we do cruel things, we will get back cruelty in return. I also hope that this opera will be a success with the public, a total, wonderful success. I thank you very much.
Due to limited time, in next week’s program we’ll continue with genuine words from actor Tiểu Bảo Quốc, actress Yến Nhung, painter Phương Tần, and studio secretary Nguyễn Đình Trực, as well as the artists’ call for “Be Veg, Go Green 2 Save the Planet!”
We gratefully appreciate all artists and professionals who contributed in the modern folk opera “A Tale of Karma (Retribution),” which conveys a message of peace, bringing numerous benefits to the multitude. We wish you and your family abundant blessings in Divine grace. May the field of modern folk opera as well as other traditional arts continue to thrive to illuminate noble qualities within each of us.
