Issa
This dewdrop world – Is a dewdrop world, And yet, and yet…
Category: Poem
Shantideva
Let us not be downcast by the warring wants Of childish persons quarreling. Their thoughts are bred from conflict and emotion. Let us understand and treat them lovingly.
Jakushitsu
Life is fleeting as dew as lightning How can I vainly deceive myself seeking personal gain? Taking things as they come I respond accordingly Eating my fill and viewing the green mountains.
Keizan
Even with purity like an autumn flood reaching to the heavens, How can it compare with the haziness of a spring night’s moon? Many people desire to find purity in their lives, But though they sweep and sweep, their minds are not yet empty.
Shido Bunen
Die while alive, Thoroughly die. Then do just as you will, and all is right. I feel I need to add a caveat that the expression here is about the death of the limited, self-concerned ego, without which a free expression of the self is naturally skilful and beneficial, not just wantonly free in […]
Tiantong
The void of the circle of the Way is never filled, The letters on the seal of emptiness are still unformed. Subtly carrying the globe of heaven and axis of earth, Finely weaving the military warp and cultural woof, Opening up, kneading together, Standing along, traveling everywhere: The mind activates the mysterious pivot, thunder roars […]
Sunday Poem
The moon outside my window Is usually the same moon, But as soon as there are plum flowers It becomes a different moon. (from Zenrin Kushu – ‘parallel seven-character phrases’ section of koan capping phrases)
