Key Takeaways
1. Zazen: More Than Just Sitting
"The most effective means by which to accomplish this is through zazen."
Zazen's true nature. Zazen is not merely a physical act of sitting; it's a profound practice aimed at Self-realization. It involves specific postures, controlled breathing, and focused concentration to quiet the mind and reveal one's true nature. It's a method for purifying the mind, calming the "waves" of thought, and allowing the "moon of truth" to reflect clearly.
Beyond physical posture. While the physical aspects of zazen, such as the lotus position and erect spine, are important, they are not the end goal. These postures are designed to create a stable base for the mind, allowing it to settle and become more focused. Zazen is not about achieving a specific state of mind, but about creating the conditions for insight to arise.
- Full-lotus, half-lotus, or sitting on heels are traditional postures
- Erect spine is crucial for proper energy flow
- Hands are placed in a specific mudra to aid concentration
Zazen in daily life. Zazen extends beyond formal sitting practice. It's about bringing mindfulness and awareness to every action, whether it's walking, working, or eating. This "mobile zazen" integrates the practice into daily life, making it a continuous path to self-discovery.
2. The Five Varieties of Zen: A Spectrum of Practice
"Outwardly these five kinds of Zen scarcely differ... but common to all are three basic elements: an erect sitting posture, correct control of breathing, and concentration (unification) of mind."
Bompu Zen. This is "ordinary" Zen, practiced for health and well-being, without any specific religious or philosophical aim. It focuses on improving concentration and mental clarity, and is accessible to anyone, regardless of their beliefs. It's a good starting point for beginners.
Gedo Zen. This is "outside way" Zen, encompassing practices from other religions and philosophies, such as Hindu yoga or Christian contemplation. It often aims to cultivate supranormal powers or achieve rebirth in heavenly realms, but it is not considered true Buddhist Zen.
Shojo Zen. This is "Small Vehicle" Zen, focused on individual liberation and escaping the cycle of rebirth. It aims to stop all thoughts and enter a state of mushinjo, a trance-like state where consciousness is suspended. It is a Buddhist practice, but not the highest form of Zen.
Daijo Zen. This is "Great Vehicle" Zen, a truly Buddhist practice that aims for kensho-godo, seeing into one's essential nature and realizing the Way in daily life. It emphasizes the importance of satori (enlightenment) and the integration of this experience into everyday actions.
Saijojo Zen. This is the "Highest Vehicle" Zen, the culmination of Buddhist practice. It is shikan-taza, "just sitting," where the means and end are one. It involves sitting in the firm conviction that zazen is the actualization of one's true nature, without striving for any specific goal.
3. The Three Aims of Zazen: A Holistic Approach
"These three form an inseparable unity, but for purposes of discussion I am obliged to deal with them individually."
Joriki: The Power of Concentration. Joriki is the strength that arises from a unified mind, enabling one to act decisively and appropriately in any situation. It's more than just focus; it's a dynamic power that allows one to be in command of oneself and one's circumstances. It can also lead to the development of supranormal abilities.
Kensho-Godo: Satori-Awakening. This is the direct realization of one's true nature and the nature of the universe. It's the sudden understanding that "I have been complete and perfect from the very beginning." Kensho is not the end goal, but the foundation for further spiritual development.
- Kensho is not a uniform experience; it varies in clarity and depth
- It is the apprehension of the true substance of our Self-nature
Mujodo no Taigen: Actualization of the Supreme Way. This is the integration of enlightenment into daily life, where zazen becomes the expression of one's true nature. It's the state where means and end are one, and where one lives with inner peace and dignity, in harmony with the environment.
- It is the manifestation of satori in all actions
- It is the culmination of Zen practice
These three aims are interconnected and mutually reinforcing. Joriki provides the strength for kensho, and kensho provides the foundation for mujodo no taigen.
4. Makyo: Navigating Illusory Experiences
"All these abnormal visions and sensations are merely the symptoms of an impairment arising from a maladjustment of the mind with the breath."
What are makyo? Makyo are illusory visions, hallucinations, fantasies, and sensations that can arise during zazen. They are not inherently good or bad, but they can become obstacles if one becomes attached to them or is frightened by them. They are temporary mental states that arise when concentration deepens.
Types of makyo:
- Visual hallucinations: seeing colors, shapes, or figures
- Auditory hallucinations: hearing voices or sounds
- Tactile sensations: feeling hot, cold, or floating
- Illusory movements: feeling the body sway or rise
The nature of makyo. Makyo are a mixture of the real and the unreal, like dreams. They arise from residual elements of past experiences stored in the subconscious mind. They are not to be pursued or feared, but simply ignored.
The importance of ignoring makyo. By ignoring makyo and continuing with zazen, one can move beyond these illusory experiences and progress towards true enlightenment. Attachment to makyo can hinder progress, while detachment allows the mind to become more focused and clear.
5. The Power of "Mu": A Gateway to Understanding
"The retort 'Mu!' exposes and at the same time fully thrusts Buddha-nature before us."
The koan Mu. Mu is a seemingly nonsensical response to the question, "Does a dog have Buddha-nature?" It's a tool used in Zen to break down the limitations of the rational mind and lead to direct experience of truth. It is not a concept to be understood, but a reality to be experienced.
Why Mu is powerful:
- It is impervious to logic and reason
- It forces the mind to go beyond intellectual understanding
- It is easy to voice, yet impossible to grasp with the intellect
The function of Mu. By intensely focusing on Mu, the mind gradually becomes denuded of its delusive ideas. It is a scalpel for cutting through the dualistic thinking that separates us from our true nature. It is a barrier that is no barrier.
The experience of Mu. Through intense self-inquiry, the mind becomes one with Mu, leading to a state of emptiness from which enlightenment can arise. It is not about understanding Mu, but about becoming Mu.
6. The Dance of Cause and Effect: Inga Ichinyo
"Thus while there are many stages corresponding to the length of practice, at every one of these different stages the mind substance is the same as that of a Buddha. Hence we say cause and effect are one."
Cause and effect are one. This principle, inga ichinyo, means that cause and effect are not separate but are two aspects of the same reality. It applies to the practice of zazen, where each stage of practice is both a cause and an effect.
The ladder of cause and effect. Zazen is a journey with distinct stages, each building upon the previous one. While the results of zazen may not be immediately apparent, each step is a necessary part of the process.
- Each stage is a cause for the next
- Each stage is an effect of the previous
The unity of substance. Despite the different stages of practice, the underlying substance of the mind remains the same as that of a Buddha. This means that even beginners are already manifesting their true nature through their practice.
The parable of Enyadatta. The story of Enyadatta, who believed she had lost her head, illustrates the principle of inga ichinyo. Just as Enyadatta always had her head, we are always endowed with Buddha-nature, even though we may not be aware of it. The stages of her search are the causes, and the realization of her head is the effect.
7. Faith, Doubt, and Determination: The Three Essentials
"These three form an inseparable unity, but for purposes of discussion I am obliged to deal with them individually."
Dai-shinkon: Strong Faith. This is more than mere belief; it's a deep-rooted, immovable faith in the Buddha's enlightenment and the inherent perfection of all beings. It's the conviction that we are all capable of realizing our true nature. It is the foundation of all Zen practice.
Dai-gidan: Strong Doubt. This is not skepticism, but a profound questioning of why we and the world appear so imperfect when our faith tells us otherwise. It's a doubt that leaves us no rest, driving us to seek answers. It is the engine of Zen practice.
Dai-funshi: Strong Determination. This is the overwhelming resolve to dispel doubt and realize our true nature. It's the unwavering commitment to practice, fueled by faith and doubt. It is the fuel of Zen practice.
The interplay of the three. These three essentials are interconnected and mutually reinforcing. Strong faith gives rise to strong doubt, which in turn fuels strong determination. They are all necessary for effective Zen practice.
- Faith provides the foundation
- Doubt provides the motivation
- Determination provides the energy
8. The Master's Guidance: Dokusan and the Path
"Without this individual guidance we cannot say that our practice of zazen is authentic."
The importance of dokusan. Dokusan, or private instruction with the roshi, is a crucial aspect of Zen training. It provides personalized guidance and helps students navigate the challenges of their practice. It is a tradition that goes back to the Buddha himself.
Why dokusan is private:
- It allows students to be honest and vulnerable
- It prevents others from being influenced by another's progress
- It protects the privacy of the student's inner experience
What to ask in dokusan. Questions should relate directly to problems arising from practice, such as physical discomfort, visions, or difficulties with concentration. Personal problems or abstract philosophical questions are not appropriate.
The roshi's role. The roshi acts as a guide, a teacher, and a mirror, reflecting back to the student his own progress and challenges. He provides encouragement, correction, and direction, helping the student to stay on the path.
9. The Essence of One-Mind: Bassui's Teachings
"Between a Nyorai (i.e., a supremely perfected Buddha) and us, who are ordinary, there is no difference as to substance."
The nature of One-Mind. Bassui's teachings emphasize the concept of One-Mind, the true nature of all beings, which is intrinsically pure and perfect. This Mind is the source of all Buddhas and sentient beings, and it is the key to liberation.
The importance of self-inquiry. To realize One-Mind, one must look into the source of thoughts and question the nature of the self. This intense self-inquiry is the path to enlightenment. It is not about intellectual understanding, but about direct experience.
The role of zazen. Zazen is the most effective means of realizing One-Mind. It is not just a technique, but the actualization of one's true nature. It is through zazen that one can quiet the mind and see the truth directly.
The practical application of One-Mind. Once One-Mind is realized, one can live with inner peace and dignity, free from perplexity and disquiet, and in harmony with the environment. It is a state of being that transcends all dualities.
10. Enlightenment: A Spectrum of Experiences
"The moment of such realization is kensho, i.e., enlightenment, the apprehension of the true substance of our Self-nature."
Kensho is not the end. Kensho, or satori, is the initial glimpse of one's true nature. It's a profound experience, but it's not the end of the journey. It's the beginning of a process of deepening and expanding one's understanding.
Variations in kensho. The clarity and depth of kensho experiences vary greatly. Some may be faint and fleeting, while others may be profound and transformative. The important thing is not the intensity of the experience, but the subsequent integration of it into daily life.
The importance of continued practice. After kensho, continued zazen is essential for sustaining and enlarging the initial insight. Without practice, the vision of Oneness can fade, and the transforming power of satori can be lost.
The transforming power of satori. Satori is not just an intellectual understanding; it's a transformation of personality and character. It leads to greater compassion, wisdom, and freedom, and it allows one to live with inner peace and dignity.
Last updated:
FAQ
What's The Three Pillars of Zen about?
- Comprehensive Zen Overview: The Three Pillars of Zen by Philip Kapleau offers a detailed introduction to Zen Buddhism, focusing on teaching, practice, and enlightenment. It includes lectures, personal instructions, and letters from Zen masters.
- Practical Guidance: The book emphasizes practical methods of Zen practice, particularly zazen (sitting meditation), and provides insights into the experiences of both Japanese and Western practitioners.
- Cultural Context: Kapleau contextualizes Zen within its historical and cultural background, illustrating its evolution from India to China, Japan, and the West.
Why should I read The Three Pillars of Zen?
- Authentic Zen Experience: Essential for anyone serious about Zen practice, especially those without access to a qualified Zen master. It provides authentic teachings directly from the masters.
- Diverse Perspectives: Includes perspectives from both Eastern and Western practitioners, showcasing the universality of Zen principles and helping readers relate to the teachings personally.
- Practical Techniques: Offers practical techniques for meditation and mindfulness, which can be integrated into daily life for greater peace and clarity.
What are the key takeaways of The Three Pillars of Zen?
- Zazen Importance: Emphasizes zazen as the core practice of Zen, stating, "Zazen is the gateway to total liberation," leading to inner peace and clarity.
- Three Essentials of Zen Practice: Outlines three essentials: strong faith, strong doubt, and strong determination, crucial for deepening practice and achieving enlightenment.
- Understanding of Buddha-nature: Explores the concept of Buddha-nature, asserting that "all beings are endowed with Buddha-nature from the very first," fundamental to realizing one's true self.
What is zazen, and how is it practiced according to The Three Pillars of Zen?
- Definition of Zazen: Zazen is "sitting meditation," involving sitting in a specific posture to cultivate mindfulness and concentration, the primary method for achieving enlightenment in Zen Buddhism.
- Posture and Breathing: Details the correct posture for zazen, emphasizing an erect back and proper breathing techniques, with a focus on counting inhalations and exhalations.
- Mindfulness in Daily Life: Zazen extends to all activities, with Kapleau stating, "To enter fully into every action with total attention and clear awareness is no less zazen."
What are the five varieties of Zen mentioned in The Three Pillars of Zen?
- Bompu Zen: "Ordinary" Zen for physical and mental health benefits, accessible to everyone, emphasizing concentration and mental clarity.
- Gedo Zen: "Outside ways," including practices from other religions aiming for personal improvement but not true enlightenment, like certain forms of yoga.
- Shojo Zen: "Small Vehicle," focusing on individual salvation and cessation of suffering, a more self-centered approach compared to Mahayana Buddhism.
- Daijo Zen: "Great Vehicle," emphasizing kensho (enlightenment) and realization of one's true nature, seeking to understand interconnectedness.
- Saijojo Zen: Highest form, involving shikan-taza (just sitting) and actualization of Buddha-nature in daily life, representing the culmination of Zen practice.
What is the significance of the koan "Mu" in The Three Pillars of Zen?
- Core Koan: Central to Zen practice, especially in the Rinzai tradition, serving as a tool for breaking through mind delusions and realizing true nature.
- Challenge to Duality: Joshu's "Mu" response challenges dualistic thinking, emphasizing that the essence of all beings is Buddha-nature, transcending distinctions.
- Path to Enlightenment: Working on "Mu" can lead to profound insights and enlightenment, described as "the one barrier of the supreme teaching."
How does The Three Pillars of Zen address the relationship between Zen practice and daily life?
- Integration of Zen: Stresses that Zen practice should permeate all life aspects, not just formal meditation, with Kapleau stating, "To enter fully into every action with total attention and clear awareness is no less zazen."
- Mindfulness in Action: Encourages maintaining awareness and presence in all actions, fostering a deeper connection to true nature.
- Living Zen: Portrays Zen as a way of life cultivating compassion, awareness, and harmony, helping navigate modern life's complexities with ease and clarity.
What is kensho, and how is it discussed in The Three Pillars of Zen?
- Definition of Kensho: Described as a sudden awakening or realization of one's true nature, often a preliminary experience on the path to full enlightenment.
- Experiential Nature: Emphasizes kensho as a direct experience, not merely intellectual understanding, with the truth unmistakably brought home.
- Significance in Practice: Achieving kensho is a significant milestone, serving as a foundation for deeper exploration and understanding of the self.
How does one achieve enlightenment according to The Three Pillars of Zen?
- Intense Self-Inquiry: Continuous questioning of one's True-nature, such as "What is Mu?" or "Who am I?" is essential for penetrating delusions.
- Zazen Practice: Regular and dedicated zazen practice cultivates the necessary concentration and insight to realize one's Buddha-nature.
- Letting Go of Attachments: Enlightenment involves relinquishing attachments to thoughts, concepts, and ego, allowing for a direct experience of reality.
What role does the kyosaku play in Zen practice as described in The Three Pillars of Zen?
- Stimulating Concentration: The kyosaku, or "encouragement stick," awakens practitioners and helps focus energy during zazen.
- Compassionate Guidance: Administered with care and compassion, intended to spur on those struggling to maintain concentration.
- Not Punishment: The kyosaku is not punitive; it is a tool for enhancing practice and deepening meditation experience.
What are the common experiences (makyo) during zazen as described in The Three Pillars of Zen?
- Definition of Makyo: Refers to illusory visions and sensations during zazen, including hallucinations and unexpected emotional responses.
- Nature of Experiences: Makyo can be intriguing or frightening but are not inherently good or bad; they should not be clung to or feared.
- Focus on Practice: Key is to continue practicing zazen without attachment to these experiences, as they can distract from the true purpose.
What are the best quotes from The Three Pillars of Zen and what do they mean?
- "Zazen is the gateway to total liberation.": Highlights meditation's importance as a means to achieve enlightenment and freedom from suffering.
- "All beings are endowed with Buddha-nature from the very first.": Emphasizes the inherent potential for enlightenment within every individual.
- "To enter fully into every action with total attention and clear awareness is no less zazen.": Illustrates that Zen practice extends beyond meditation, encouraging mindfulness in all life aspects.
Review Summary
The Three Pillars of Zen is widely regarded as a classic introduction to Zen Buddhism, offering practical guidance on meditation techniques, enlightenment experiences, and the integration of Zen principles into daily life. Readers appreciate its comprehensive approach, combining teachings, practice instructions, and personal accounts. While some find it dense and challenging, many praise its authenticity and depth. The book's emphasis on direct experience and rigorous practice is seen as both inspiring and daunting. Critics note its focus on Rinzai Zen and suggest it may not fully represent all schools of Zen Buddhism.
Similar Books
Download PDF
Download EPUB
.epub digital book format is ideal for reading ebooks on phones, tablets, and e-readers.
