Zen Master Dogen

Zen Master Dogen

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Exploring the Intersection of AI and Zen: A Virtual Dogen Zenji

Exploring the Intersection of AI and Zen: A Virtual Dogen Zenji

I created an AI chatbot inspired by Zen master Dogen to explore how technology engages with historical teachings. This experiment raises questions about AI's role in spiritual exploration and cultural preservation.

The Zen Journey of Shohaku Okumura

The Zen Journey of Shohaku Okumura

Zen master Shohaku Okumura's journey from postwar Japan to "good-for-nothing" meditation reveals profound insights on finding peace and meaning through simply being, challenging our goal-driven society with timeless wisdom.

Shikantaza - Just Sitting

Shikantaza - Just Sitting

Instructions for shikantaza, Zen's "just sitting" practice. Learn to be present without forcing, embracing each moment as it comes. Simple yet profound, it's meditation stripped to its essence—perfect for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike.

It's a Fine Day

It's a Fine Day

Nyogen Roshi explores Zen's core teachings on Samadhi and mind-nature, using Wumen Huikai's poem as a starting point. He emphasizes emptying the mind, avoiding discursive thinking, and realizing the ever-present Buddha-nature beneath our conditioned responses.

Unexpected Teachings

Unexpected Teachings

A dying woman's gratitude transforms a routine call into a profound lesson. Her grace in the face of death reveals life's enduring beauty and the far-reaching impact of small kindnesses.

Faith

Faith

Exploring how critical examination and personal experience transformed initial doubt into deep commitment, and why this faith feels fundamentally different from traditional religious belief.

The Unity of All Things

The Unity of All Things

A glimpse into my first real grasp of Dogen's teachings. This old post marks the beginning of my journey with his profound idea that practice itself is enlightenment.

Ordination Thoughts

Ordination Thoughts

Reflections on suffering, survival, compassion, and gratitude.

I Am Not a Western Buddhist

I Am Not a Western Buddhist

Zen beyond labels: Navigating the East-West debate, religious institutions, and the true essence of practice. A reminder that Buddhism isn't about being Buddhist—it's about being you.

Getting Out of My Own Way

Getting Out of My Own Way

A quarter-century Zen journey: from dusty bookstore finds to quiet self-reflection. Exploring ritual, form, and the profound simplicity beneath life's complexities.

Climbing the Unclimbable Mountain

Climbing the Unclimbable Mountain

A middle-aged journey from couch to mountaintop reveals unexpected parallels with Zen practice. Both paths demand persistence, challenge expectations, and ultimately show that the summit may already be beneath our feet.

Original Zen Poetry - by AI

Original Zen Poetry - by AI

I asked AI to write Dogen-style Zen poems. The results showcase both AI's poetic ability and its grasp of Zen concepts.