To practice our way
to attain enlightenment-- even to attain enlightenment - is not good, because
this kind of gaining idea usually is not pure enough. Instead of, “You
should attain enlightenment, forgetting everything else,” we say, “Practice
zazen without any gaining idea.” This is a stronger
instruction, more strict instruction. Without even trying to
attain enlightenment, you should practice zazen. That is actually what we mean.
To practice zazen to attain enlightenment may be pretty good, but not good
enough-- not strict enough-- not strict with the impetus of your practice. ----------------------------- 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
