Eihei Dogen, the founder of Soto Zen in Japan, had a unique perspective on enlightenment. He believed that enlightenment was not something to be achieved or attained, but rather a natural state that is present within all beings. Dogen's teachings emphasized the concept of "original enlightenment," which is the idea that all beings are inherently enlightened and that this state can be realized through the practice of Zen meditation.

Dogen's views on enlightenment were heavily influenced by his study of the Lotus Sutra, a Buddhist text that emphasizes the idea of "Buddha nature" or the potential for enlightenment within all beings. He believed that this Buddha nature is not something that can be obtained through external means, but rather it is already present within each individual and can be realized through diligent practice and self-inquiry.

For Dogen, enlightenment was not a goal to be reached, but rather a continuous process of awakening and deepening one's understanding of the true nature of reality. He taught that through the practice of zazen (sitting meditation), one can cultivate a clear and focused mind, free from the distractions of thoughts and emotions, and thus be able to see the world as it truly is.

Dogen also emphasized the importance of living in the present moment and experiencing each moment fully. He believed that enlightenment is not something that can be grasped or understood intellectually, but rather it is a direct experience that can only be realized through direct perception.

In his famous work, the Shobogenzo, Dogen wrote, "To study the Buddha Way is to study the self. To study the self is to forget the self. To forget the self is to be enlightened by all things." This quote reflects his belief that enlightenment is not a personal achievement, but rather a state of being that is interconnected with all things.

In summary, Eihei Dogen's views on enlightenment revolve around the idea that it is a natural state that is already present within all beings. Through the practice of zazen and self-inquiry, one can realize this state and live in harmony with the world. His teachings continue to inspire and guide practitioners of Soto Zen to this day.