The Essential Dogen

Writings of the Great Zen Master

By: Kazuaki Tanahashi - editor, Peter Levitt - editor

Narrated by: Brian Nishii

Eihei Dogen (1200 - 1253), founder of the Soto School of Zen Buddhism, is one of the greatest religious, philosophical, and literary geniuses of Japan. His writings have been studied by Zen students for centuries, particularly his masterwork, Shobo Genzo or Treasury of the True Dharma Eye. This is the first book to offer the great master's incisive wisdom in short selections taken from the whole range of his voluminous works. The pithy and powerful readings, arranged according to theme, provide a perfect introduction to Dogen - and inspire spiritual practice in people of all traditions.

©2013 The San Francisco Zen Center (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Dogen is difficult to comprehend

Dogen is a difficult read, which should not be seen as a critique of the author or the narrator. Both have done a good job handling the material. That being so, the material is difficult to comprehend.

I think I'll get more out of it next time

I think that if I would have thought of it more as poetry I would have enjoyed it more. loved the closing words. would have rated it 3.5 stars if I could.

Thanks!

The spirit of Dogen is passed till the flesh as possible and hope one day it could penetrate intobthe marrow and the soul!

Body and mind will drop away...!!!

Then, what do you do? After body and mind drop away? It's a really tough question. Excellent. :)

Great Book, Not-Great Introduction-Section

Aside from a poor introduction that is not relevant to Dogen studies, the translation selection and comments are good.