Introductory Lectures on Zazen Practice

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The aim of zazen is to awaken to your True-nature. What is this True-nature? It is the Buddha-nature inherent in every sentient being. Through zazen you can directly experience and validate the truth that each of you is an embodiment of Buddha. Zazen that leads to Self-realization is neither a technique of meditation nor a means of tranquilizing the mind. It is practice that brings the mind to maturity, and it is the actualization of the supreme Way. To practice zazen with the expectation of a reward, even enlightenment, is to sow a seed of delusion. Simply sit with your whole being, pouring all your energy into this sitting.

license: fair_use

Attribution

• Attributed To
  Yasutani Hakuun

Lineage: Sanbo-Zen

By Yasutani Hakuun

• No Shortcutsproverb
• Throw Yourself Into Itproverb
• On Kensho and the Importance of Initial Awakeningsaying
• The Three Essentials of Zen Practicesaying

From The Three Pillars of Zen

• On Kensho and the Importance of Initial Awakening
• The Three Essentials of Zen Practice

Sources

• contentWikisource — English-language free library

  Three Pillars of Zen, Introductory Lectures on Zen Practice

  The Three Pillars of Zen: Introductory Lectures on Zazen Practice