The Essential Dogen: Writings of the Great Zen Master [Paperback]

Eihei Dogen (1200–1253), founder of the Soto School of Zen Buddhism, is one of the greatest religious, philosophical, and literary geniuses of Japan. His writings have been studied by Zen students for centuries, particularly his masterwork,Shobo GenzoorTreasury of the True Dharma Eye. This is the first book to offer the great master’s incisive wisdom in short selections taken from the whole range of his voluminous works. The pithy and powerful readings, arranged according to theme, provide a perfect introduction to Dogen—and inspire spiritual practice in people of all traditions.Dogen (1200–1253) is known as the founder of the Japanese Soto Zen sect. 
 Aspiration and Search
“Aspiration for enlightenment” is called “hotsu bodai shin” in Japanese, or in short, “hosshin.” It is sometimes translated as “beginner’s mind.” “Way-seeking mind” (doshin) is another name for it (in this case, way means enlightenment). Dogen describes his motivation for seeking authentic buddha dharma and offers his insightful views on aspiration—one of the central elements of Buddhist practice.
I wrote to master Rujing shortly before I met him: “When I was young I aroused the aspiration for enlightenment and visited various monasteries in my country. I had some understanding of the principle of cause and effect; however I was not able to clarify the real source of buddha, dharma, and sangha. I was only seeing the outer forms, the marks, and the names. Later I entered the chamber of Eisai,* Zen master Senko, and for the first time heard the teaching of the Linji School.
“Now I have accompanied monk myozen to the flourishing kingdom of Song China. After a voyage of many miles, during which I entrusted my phantom body to the billowing waves, I have finally arrived and have entered your dharma assembly. This is the fortunate result of my wholel#/