Many thanks everyone.
History
Part 6 Zazenshin: Acupuncture Needle of Zazen, by Shohaku Okumura
‘Is there a way we should aim at beyond the framework of zazen that has not yet been accomplished?’
Shakyamuni Descending from the Mountain
Shakyamuni Descending from the Mountain. 15th century, Japan. © Metropolitan Museum of Art
A Taste of Zen: Daju Huihai
Vinaya master Yuan asked Great Pearl, “When you practice the Way, do you use a special skill?”
Great Pearl said, “I do.”
Yuan asked, “What is it?”
Great Pearl said, “ When I’m hungry I eat. When I get sleepy I sleep.”
Yuan said, “Everyone does these things. Do they not have the same skill as you?”
Great Pearl said, “They do not have the same skill.”
Yuan said, “Why is it not the same?
Small Buddha on show at Agatha Christie’s house
Small Buddha on show at Agatha Christie’s old house near Totnes, Devon.
Part 5 Zazenshin: Acupuncture Needle of Zazen, by Shohaku Okumura
If buddha-dharma is the self, why do we have to study from others? Why do we have to practise in order to change the self? Why do we have to practise? We already have buddha-nature. We can do whatever we want. What is wrong with this kind of view? That is the question. Dogen’s reply is as follows:…
The real part 5 of Zazenshin. Sorry for the slip up last time.
Pensive Bodhisattva
The origin of Buddha statues of this style is the figure of Prince Siddhartha in contemplation pondering the four phases of life (birth, old age, sickness, and death). Established first in India, the Pensive Bodhisattva was made in countless numbers in China but not till it came to Korea…
A Taste of Zen: Mazu Daoyi
A monk asked, “What is the essential meaning of Buddhism?” Mazu said, “What is the meaning of this moment?”
Buddhism now 