Eastern Philosophy and Traditions, Spiritual Traditions

Buddhist Masters, Zen Masters

Present moment, eternal now.

Dogen Zenji

January 17, 2025

Dogen Zenji, founder of Soto Zen, revolutionized Japanese Buddhism by emphasizing zazen and the inherent Buddha-nature of all beings, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire practitioners worldwide.

Japanese Zen Buddhist monk, writer, poet, philosopher

BIRTH:

January 19, 1200

Death:

September 22, 1253

Life and times

Dogen Zenji, a revolutionary figure in Japanese Zen Buddhism, embarked on a spiritual quest to China seeking authentic Dharma. Disillusioned with the state of Buddhism in Japan, he sought a deeper understanding of practice and enlightenment. After years of rigorous training, he returned to Japan, establishing the Soto school of Zen, emphasizing zazen (seated meditation) as the central practice. Dogen challenged established Buddhist norms, advocating for a direct experience of enlightenment rather than relying on rituals or intellectual study. His teachings emphasized the inherent Buddha-nature in all beings and the importance of practice in everyday life.

LEGACY

Founded the Soto school of Zen Buddhism in Japan.
Authored the Shobogenzo, a profound collection of Zen essays.
Revolutionized Zen practice by emphasizing zazen.
Advocated for the inherent Buddha-nature of all beings.
Profoundly influenced Japanese culture and spirituality.

Dogen believed that even inanimate objects possess Buddha-nature. Imagine him having a conversation with a rock, discussing the nature of reality.

MODERN ECHOES

Dogen’s teachings on zazen and mindfulness continue to influence contemporary meditation practices worldwide. His emphasis on direct experience resonates with modern seekers who value authenticity over dogma. His writings on the nature of time, self, and reality are studied by scholars and practitioners alike, offering profound insights into the human condition.

Dogen, a stickler for details, once wrote an entire essay on the proper way to use a toilet, emphasizing mindfulness in even the most mundane activities.

TIMELESSNESS

Dogen’s central teaching was the unity of practice and enlightenment. He believed that zazen was not merely a means to an end but an expression of our inherent Buddha-nature. This non-dual perspective transcends the limitations of the conceptual mind and aligns with the Unalome Project’s emphasis on realizing our true, undivided nature. In other words, the path and the goal are one.

“Time goes from present to past. This is an immutable law of the Buddha. Because it is a teaching of the Buddha, there is this immutable law. Because there is this immutable law, time goes from present to past. It has been so for a long time. This is why, though I am now in the past, I do not obstruct the present.”

Take Away

Dogen’s teachings offer a path to liberation through direct experience, emphasizing the importance of embodying our inherent wisdom in every moment. This resonates with the Unalome Project’s mission of guiding individuals toward self-discovery and transformation through authentic practice, grounded in the present moment.

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Recommended Resources

References:

Dogen Zenji. Shobogenzo: The Treasure House of the True Dharma Eye. Various translators.
Tanahashi, Kazuaki (editor). Moon in a Dewdrop: Writings of Zen Master Dogen. North Point Press, 1985.
Bielefeldt, Carl. Dogen’s Manuals of Zen Meditation. University of California Press, 1988.

Keywords:

Dogen Zenji, Soto Zen, Zazen, Shobogenzo, Japanese Buddhism, Mindfulness, Enlightenment, Buddha-nature, Non-duality, Meditation, Unalome Project