The Zen Studies Podcast 259 – Ten Fields of Zen, Introduction – What Is Zen Practice?
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Feb 1, 2024 Discover the essence of Zen practice as an active exploration rather than mere belief. Unpack the ultimate aim of becoming a Buddha through awakening to compassion and fearlessness. Learn why spiritual practice is crucial for transcending self-centeredness and achieving true happiness. Gain insights on balancing goal-oriented and goal-less practices, and hear about the signs of someone who embodies Zen. Delve into the Ten Fields framework, nurturing the way-seeking mind, and the importance of personal experience in meditation and daily life.
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Use Lists As Guides
- Lists like the Ten Fields or the Eightfold Path are tools to make the Dharma digestible, not strict rules.
- Use whichever framework helps you explore practice and hold the list lightly with curiosity.
Nurture The Way-Seeking Mind
- Bodhicitta or the way-seeking mind generates the questions, curiosity, and energy for spiritual growth.
- Nurturing this seeking mind turns us toward and honors our great doubt.
Zazen As Whole-Life Response
- Zazen is framed as our total response to life, a wholehearted present-moment engagement.
- Stillness and inner silence in sitting allow reality to be seen without imposing habitual agendas.
