Thích Nhất Hạnh was a renowned Vietnamese Thiền Buddhist monk, peace activist, prolific author, poet, and teacher. He was born as Nguyễn Xuân Bảo on 11 October 1926 and passed away on 22 January 2022. Thích Nhất Hạnh was a pivotal influence on Western Buddhism, often referred to as the "father of mindfulness." He founded the Plum Village Tradition and was a significant inspiration behind engaged Buddhism.

In the mid-1960s, he co-founded the School of Youth for Social Services and created the Order of Interbeing. Due to his outspoken opposition to the Vietnam War, he was exiled from South Vietnam in 1966. In 1967, he was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by Martin Luther King, Jr.

Thích Nhất Hạnh established multiple monasteries and practice centers worldwide. He spent many years at the Plum Village Monastery in France, which he founded in 1982. He traveled extensively, offering retreats and talks, and sought to promote peace through the concept of "deep listening." His teachings emphasized the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of mindfulness.

After 39 years in exile, Thích Nhất Hạnh returned to Vietnam in 2005 and spent his final years at the Từ Hiếu Temple near Huế.