07-14-2010, 12:00 AM
"We must study the Buddha's teachings and learn to think logically and clearly so that we can investigate them and reach accurate conclusions. For this reason, Tibetan monastics spend years debating and discussing the scriptures. The formalized structure of debate teaches us how to examine the teachings clearly and test their validity It also draws out deeper meanings of the teachings, shows us what we do and don't understand, and elucidates diverse perspectives. Although we may not engage in formal debate, discussing topics with Dharma friends serves the same purpose. In this way we can clarify what we believe, and having done that, we begin to practice accordingly." ~Tibetan nun
The whole idea that zen is this or zen is that just complicates the matter and then a person begins to argue that others are not following zen. As if zen is something to be possessed as "this way" or "that way" to follow. Examination of what we believe and observation of what others believe will help clear this.
Is zen really a "topic"? Our beliefs are what's important to look at. They determine our actions, our perception. If we believe zen is "something" then its certainly not empty according to that belief. Then there is an attachment to the concept of what zen is and then the idea of following that particular way. Free the idea there is even a concept of zen to be accessed. Sitting in silence, or talking, it makes no difference. One is not "more zen" then the other. Both silence and discussing have functional purposes.
Zen masters, being so, actually become more humble the further they progress. They go deeper into gratitude of the power that surrounds them rather then their having their own power. They disappear. So those who seek this must understand what this implies. Being upset with one's surroundings whatever the case, points to an area to be resolved in order to become a zen master. Yet the zen master is more like a small mouse then a roaring lion. In the process of "becoming" one may perceive it the other way around. In which case, the letting go of becoming is what needs to occur.
The whole idea that zen is this or zen is that just complicates the matter and then a person begins to argue that others are not following zen. As if zen is something to be possessed as "this way" or "that way" to follow. Examination of what we believe and observation of what others believe will help clear this.
Is zen really a "topic"? Our beliefs are what's important to look at. They determine our actions, our perception. If we believe zen is "something" then its certainly not empty according to that belief. Then there is an attachment to the concept of what zen is and then the idea of following that particular way. Free the idea there is even a concept of zen to be accessed. Sitting in silence, or talking, it makes no difference. One is not "more zen" then the other. Both silence and discussing have functional purposes.
Zen masters, being so, actually become more humble the further they progress. They go deeper into gratitude of the power that surrounds them rather then their having their own power. They disappear. So those who seek this must understand what this implies. Being upset with one's surroundings whatever the case, points to an area to be resolved in order to become a zen master. Yet the zen master is more like a small mouse then a roaring lion. In the process of "becoming" one may perceive it the other way around. In which case, the letting go of becoming is what needs to occur.