The Teachings of Falun Dafa: Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance
Falun Dafa, also called Falun Gong, is a traditional practice for improving both body and character. It is guided by three principles: Truthfulness (Zhen), Compassion (Shan), and Forbearance (Ren). Its main book, Zhuan Falun, explains the teachings in full, and it is free to read online.
What Do Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance Mean?
These three words are at the heart of Falun Dafa. Practitioners try to live by them every day: at home, at work, and in hard moments. Over time, many say they worry less and feel more at peace.
Truthfulness (Zhen)
Being honest and genuine: with others, and with yourself.
- • Honest words: saying what is true, without exaggerating or pretending.
- • Honest actions: doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
- • Looking within: when something goes wrong, first asking what your own part was.
Compassion (Shan)
Kindness and goodwill toward everyone, and thinking of others before yourself.
- • Caring for others: helping family, co-workers and neighbors when you can.
- • Listening: trying to understand how someone feels before you judge.
- • Staying kind: keeping a gentle heart, even when others are unkind.
Forbearance (Ren)
Patience and tolerance: staying calm when life is hard or people are difficult.
- • Staying calm: not reacting in anger when you are insulted or under pressure.
- • Letting go: releasing grudges instead of trying to get even.
- • Growing through hardship: seeing hard moments as a chance to become a better person.
How Did Falun Dafa Begin?
Falun Dafa was first taught in public in China in 1992. It spread mostly by word of mouth, as people told friends and family what it meant to them. Today it is practiced in more than 100 countries.
About the Founder
Mr. Li Hongzhi founded Falun Dafa. He first taught it in public in Changchun, China, in May 1992, and then gave lectures across China for about two years. He now lives in the United States. His teachings have always been shared free of charge.
Where Can I Read the Falun Dafa Books?
The two main books are free to read online. If you prefer a printed copy, you can order one from a bookseller.
Zhuan Falun: The Main Book
Zhuan Falun holds the complete teachings of Falun Dafa. It is written in plain language. It talks about how to become a better person, why we meet hardship, and the path of spiritual growth. Many people read it again and again, and find something new each time.
Falun Gong: The Introduction
Falun Gong is a shorter book for beginners. It introduces the ideas behind the practice, and it has pictures and step-by-step instructions for all five exercises. Many people read it before Zhuan Falun.
How Can I Learn With a Volunteer?
Reading on your own is a fine way to start. Many people also like to learn with someone who has practiced for years. Volunteers teach for free, online and in person, and are happy to answer questions.
FREE CLASSES
Learn Online or in Arizona
Join the free live webinar from anywhere. It is hosted by volunteers of Falun Dafa, and they teach all five exercises. In Arizona, volunteers also meet in parks around Phoenix and Tucson.
Common Questions
What are the main teachings of Falun Dafa?
Falun Dafa teaches three principles: Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance. Practitioners try to live by them in daily life, alongside five gentle exercises.
Which book should I read first?
Most people start with Zhuan Falun, the main book. Falun Gong is a shorter introduction that also explains the five exercises. Both are free to read online.
Are the books and classes really free?
Yes. The books are free online, and classes, group practice and the webinar are always free. Printed copies can be ordered from booksellers.
Do I need any experience?
No. You don’t need to know anything about meditation or qigong. The exercises are gentle and people of all ages learn them.