Buddhist Philosophy

Butterfly Heart Effect

Butterfly Heart Effect by Keith Knapp Image by Daishin McCabe Beating flutter of the Divine within Convergence points all, between and among Start of a

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Two Causes for Enlightenment

If Enlightenment is possible here and now and in this lifetime regardless of prior knowledge or practice, the question remains whether Enlightenment happens by grasping it or by letting it go.  Zen Master Dogen, in speaking to his assembly during the celebration of the Enlightenment of the Buddha tells us that there are two causes and conditions for accomplishing the Buddha Way.

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Not Realizing It

The Soto school of Zen is not concerned with whether we have some special experience or an “aha” moment or insight.  Shunryu Suzuki Roshi says, “These forms are not a means of obtaining the right state of mind.  To take this [zazen] posture is itself the right state of mind.  There is no need to obtain some special state of mind.”

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Yin and Yang

Many are familiar with the yin-yang symbol, but few of us know what it means or how it is applied to real life.  In Zen Master Dogen’s time this symbol was taken for granted.  Not just Dogen Zenji, but all of Japanese culture connects the solstice with the yin-yang energy that fluctuates depending on the time of year.

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The Price

“You can do anything you want in your life, but you have to know the price for it and be willing to pay it.”  -Mrs.

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