Spiritual Practice is not some kind of striving to produce enlightenment, but an expression of the enlightenment
already inherent in all things: Such is the Zen teaching of Dogen Zenji (1200-1253) whose profound writings have
been studied and revered for more than seven hundred years, influencing practitioners far beyond his native Japan
and the Soto school he is credited with founding. In focusing on Dogen's most practical words of instruction and
encouragement for Zen students, this new collection highlights the timelessness of his teaching and shows it to
be as applicable to anyone today as it was in the great teacher's own time. Selections include Dogen's famous meditation
instructions; his advice on the practice of zazen, or sitting meditation; guidelines for community life; and some
of his most inspirational talks. Also included are a bibliography and an extensive glossary.
Table of Contents
Preface and acknowledgments
Notes to the reader
Texts and translation credits
Introduction
Entering Zazen
Recommending Zazen to all people
Rules for Zazen
Informal talks
On the endeavor of the way
Zazen experience
The point of Zazen
King of Samadhis
One bright pearl
Dragon song
Great enlightenment
Ocean Mudra Samadhi
Awesome presence of active Buddhas
Zazen in community
Regulations for the auxiliary cloud hall
Guidelines for practice of the way
Practice period
Zazen through the seasons
Formal talks
Glossary of terms
Glossary of names
Selected bibliography
