This is the definitive English translation of a foundational work of Zen Buddhism?the Bendowa ("On the Endeavor of the Way") by Eihei Dogen, founder of the Soto school of Zen in Japan.
Written in 1231, it contains the master’s essential teachings on zazen, or seated meditation, which is the fundamental pathway to Buddhist enlightenment. The first part of the book introduces the notion of "wondrous dharma" and looks at the role of the individual to society and notions of time and interconnection. The second part of the work is cast in the form of a dialogue, the Q&A format offering answers to questions a Zen novice might pose regarding the paths to enlightenment:
・How can passively sitting being a means of attaining enlightenment?
・Why is sitting so key to meditation?
・Can seated meditation be combined with other practices?
・How can I maintain a practice that accords with my other responsibilities in life?
道元『弁道話』英訳版
1231年に曹洞宗の開祖である道元によって書かれた座禅の解説書。はじめに仏教における「徳」の概念、社会と個人、時間軸と相互接続について教示した上で、どのように座禅が悟りの境地へと達するのかという疑問をはじめ、瞑想における座ることの重要性、座禅と他の修行の組み合わせ方、日常生活で修行を続けるための心得等について、問答体で読者を座禅の世界へと導きます。内山興正による用語や概念の注釈は、道元の教えと禅の本質を会得するために役立つでしょう。
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