happiness
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“The true purpose [of Zen] is to see things as they are, to observe things as they are, and to let everything go as it goes.”
— Shunryu Suzuki
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“The true purpose [of Zen] is to see things as they are, to observe things as they are, and to let everything go as it goes.”
— Shunryu Suzuki
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The Gates of Paradise
A soldier named Nobushige came to Hakuin, and asked: “Is there really a paradise and a hell?”
“Who are you?” inquired Hakuin.
“I am a samurai,” the warrior replied.
“You, a soldier!” exclaimed Hakuin. “What kind of ruler would have you as his guard? Your face looks like that of a beggar.”
Nobushige became so angry that he began to draw his sword, but Hakuin
continued: “So you have a sword! Your weapon is probably much too dull
to cut off my head.”As Nobushige drew his sword Hakuin remarked: “Here open the gates of hell!”
At these words the samurai, perceiving the master’s discipline, sheathed his sword and bowed.
“Here open the gates of paradise,” said Hakuin.
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Guided Meditation | Ajahn Brahmali | 4 January 2025
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The meaning of life is deeply personal and varies for everyone. At its core, it often centers around connection, growth, and fulfillment. For many, it’s about seeking happiness, forming meaningful relationships, pursuing passions, contributing to others, and finding peace with oneself and the world.
— ChatGPT
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“Zen is not some kind of excitement, but concentration on our usual everyday routine.”
— Shunryu Suzuki
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Temper
A Zen student came to Bankei and complained: “Master, I have an ungovernable temper. How can I cure it?”
“You have something very strange,” replied Bankei. “Let me see what you have.”
“Just now I cannot show it to you,” replied the other.
“When can you show it to me?” asked Bankei.
“It arises unexpectedly,” replied the student.
“Then,” concluded Bankei, “it must not be your own true nature. If it were, you could show it to me at any time. When you were born you did not have it, and your parents did not give it to you. Think that over.”