Be moderate in eating and drinking. Mindful of the passing of time, engage yourself in zazen as though saving your head from fire.
DogenRead
When we discover that the truth is already in us, we are all at once our original selves.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the idea that recognizing our inner truth allows us to return to our authentic selves.
Dogenβs quote suggests that the journey to understanding oneself leads to a revelation of our intrinsic nature. When we accept the truth that resides within us, we shed the layers of societal expectations and external influences, ultimately becoming who we were always meant to be. This moment of self-discovery is a profound realization, highlighting the importance of introspection in the pursuit of authenticity and personal growth.
Themes
TruthSelfAuthenticitySelf-DiscoveryWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about self-awareness, one can use this quote to inspire reflection.
More from Dogen
All quotes βIn 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.
DogenRead
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
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