Friday, May 1, 2020

Beginning of lecture on Shikantaza

I want to explain our way-- our way of zazen. Do you know-- you know the famous story of Gutei? When Tenryu pointed up one finger, Gutei attained enlightenment. And do you-- what do you think [about] this one finger? He [Gutei] attained enlightenment, you know, and said: “I received Tenryu's one finger, and-- which I have been using for-- for my lifetime,” when he became pretty old he said [holding up his finger]. “What do you think this is?” [Laughs.] -------------------------------- Excerpt from Shunryu Suzuki lecture - 68-10-12-A as found on shunryusuzuki.com. Edited by DC  - Going through Suzuki lectures and posting anything that can stand on its own. Not looking for zingers or "the best of." I find that following these excerpts daily provides another way to experience Suzuki's teaching. - DC