Zen Pointers
"Our exhalation is the whole universe's exhalation. Our inhalation is the whole universe's inhalation. In this way, in every moment, we accomplish the great unlimited work. Having this attitude means making every misfortune disappear and creates absolute happiness." (Kodo Sawaki 1880 - 1965)
"When we practice zazen our mind always follows our breathing. When we inhale, the air comes into the inner world. When we exhale, the air goes out to the outer world. The inner world is limitless, and the outer world is also limitless. We say “inner world” or “outer world,” but actually there is just one whole world. In this limitless world, our throat is like a swinging door. The air comes in and goes out like someone passing through a swinging door. If you think, “I breathe,” the “I” is extra. There is no you to say “I.” What we call “I” is just a swinging door which moves when we inhale and when we exhale. It just moves; that is all. When your mind is pure and calm enough to follow this movement, there is nothing: no “I,” no world, no mind nor body; just a swinging door." (Shunryu Suzuki)
"Thus have I heard. Upon a time Buddha sojourned in
Anathapindika's Park by Shravasti with a great company of
bhikshus, even twelve hundred and fifty.
One day, at the time for breaking fast, the World-honored
One enrobed, and carrying His bowl made His way into the
great city of Shravasti to beg for His food.
In the midst of the city He begged from door to door
according to rule. This done, He returned to His retreat and
took His meal. When He had finished He put away His robe
and begging bowl, washed His feet, arranged His seat, and sat
down.
"When we practice zazen our mind always follows our breathing. When we inhale, the air comes into the inner world. When we exhale, the air goes out to the outer world. The inner world is limitless, and the outer world is also limitless. We say “inner world” or “outer world,” but actually there is just one whole world. In this limitless world, our throat is like a swinging door. The air comes in and goes out like someone passing through a swinging door. If you think, “I breathe,” the “I” is extra. There is no you to say “I.” What we call “I” is just a swinging door which moves when we inhale and when we exhale. It just moves; that is all. When your mind is pure and calm enough to follow this movement, there is nothing: no “I,” no world, no mind nor body; just a swinging door." (Shunryu Suzuki)
"Thus have I heard. Upon a time Buddha sojourned in
Anathapindika's Park by Shravasti with a great company of
bhikshus, even twelve hundred and fifty.
One day, at the time for breaking fast, the World-honored
One enrobed, and carrying His bowl made His way into the
great city of Shravasti to beg for His food.
In the midst of the city He begged from door to door
according to rule. This done, He returned to His retreat and
took His meal. When He had finished He put away His robe
and begging bowl, washed His feet, arranged His seat, and sat
down.
Diamond Sutra: Chapter 1, Convocation of the Assembly
I continually feed on this incredibly simple and powerful piece"
- Donald Zezulinski (Abbot of Clear Mountain Zen Center)
I continually feed on this incredibly simple and powerful piece"
- Donald Zezulinski (Abbot of Clear Mountain Zen Center)
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