Be moderate in eating and drinking. Mindful of the passing of time, engage yourself in zazen as though saving your head from fire.
DogenRead
In the assemblies of the enlightened ones there have been many cases of mastering the Way bringing forth the heart of plants and trees; this is what awakening the mind for enlightenment is like. The fifth patriarch of Zen was once a pine-planting wayfarer; Rinzai worked on planting cedars and pines on Mount Obaku. . . . Working with plants, trees, fences and walls, if they practice sincerely they will attain enlightenment.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the connection between nature and enlightenment, suggesting that nurturing plants reflects the journey to self-awareness.
In this quote, Dogen illustrates the profound relationship between the act of working with nature and the pursuit of enlightenment. He highlights that engagement with the natural world, such as planting trees and caring for the environment, can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and ultimately, enlightenment. The mention of historical Zen figures reinforces the idea that mastery of one's craft and sincere practice, even in seemingly simple tasks, can facilitate spiritual awakening.
Themes
EnlightenmentNatureMindfulnessPracticeZen
In practice
Example use cases
A motivational speech about connecting with nature to foster personal growth.
More from Dogen
All quotes →To start from the self and try to understand all things is delusion. To let the self be awakened by all things is enlightenment.
DogenRead
A fool sees himself as another, but a wise man sees others as himself.
DogenRead
Do not travel to other dusty lands, forsaking your own sitting place; if you cannot find the truth where you are now, you will never find it.
DogenRead
Do no harmful actions, do not become attached to the cycle of death and rebirth, show kindness, respect the old and have compassion for the young, do not have a heart that rejects or a heart that covets and have no worry or sadness in your heart. This is what is called enlightenment. Do not seek it elsewhere.
DogenRead
You should stop searching for phrases and chasing after words. Take the backward step and turn the light inward. Your body-mind of itself will drop off and your original face will appear. If you want to attain just this, immediately practice just this.
DogenRead
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