Eihei Dogen

What are some of Eihei Dogen's most famous writings?

Eihei Dogen, also known as Dogen Zenji, was a 13th-century Japanese Buddhist monk and the founder of Soto Zen in Japan. He is considered one of the most influential and revered figures in Zen Buddhism, and his teachings continue to inspire practitioners around the world.

Dogen's most famous writings include his two major works, the "Shobogenzo" and the "Eihei Koroku." The "Shobogenzo," which translates to "Treasury of the Eye of the True Dharma," is a collection of 95 essays on various aspects of Zen practice and philosophy. This work is considered the most important and comprehensive text in Soto Zen and is often referred to as the "Bible of Soto Zen."

The "Eihei Koroku," or "Dogen's Extensive Record," is a collection of Dogen's talks and lectures given to his disciples. It contains 531 entries and covers a wide range of topics, including meditation, ethics, and the nature of reality. This work provides valuable insights into Dogen's teachings and his personal experiences as a Zen practitioner.

Another famous writing of Dogen is the "Fukanzazengi," which translates to "Universal Promotion of Zazen." This text is a practical guide to the practice of zazen, or seated meditation, and is considered one of the most concise and essential teachings on meditation in Zen Buddhism. It emphasizes the importance of sitting in stillness and letting go of all thoughts and distractions to experience the true nature of reality.

Dogen's "Genjo Koan" is another significant writing that explores the concept of "genjo," or the present moment. In this text, Dogen explains that the present moment is the only reality and that all things are interconnected and constantly changing. He encourages practitioners to fully immerse themselves in the present moment and to see things as they truly are, without any preconceived notions or judgments.

Lastly, Dogen's "Eihei Shingi" is a collection of rules and regulations for the daily life of monks in the Soto Zen tradition. This work provides guidelines for ethical conduct, rituals, and ceremonies, and reflects Dogen's emphasis on the integration of Zen practice into everyday life.

In conclusion, Eihei Dogen's writings are a rich and diverse collection of teachings that continue to inspire and guide Zen practitioners to this day. They offer profound insights into the nature of reality, the practice of meditation, and the path to enlightenment. Dogen's writings are a testament to his deep understanding of Zen and his unwavering commitment to sharing its wisdom with others.