Zen mind, beginner's mind
Ratings24
Average rating4.1
15
Ratings24
Average rating4.1
Zen mind is one of those enigmatic phrases used by Zen teachers to throw you back upon yourself, to make you go behind the words themselves and begin wondering. "Is it what I am doing now? Is it what I am thinking now?" The innocence of this first inquiry--just asking what you are--is beginner's mind. The mind of the beginner is needed throughout Zen practice. It is the open mind, the attitude that includes both doubt and possibility, the ability to see things always as fresh and new. It is needed in all aspects of life. This book originated from a series of talks given by Zen Master Shunryu Suzuki to a small group is California. His approach is informal, and he draws his examples from ordinary events and common sense.--From publisher description.
Reviews with the most likes.
So good, in a way that's hard to describe. Nearly the majority of this book feels like it is technical instructions on formally practicing zazen, yet it's really so much more than that. Every page feels like it has something beautifully relevant to your own life despite the fact that it came from a chapter on the right posture you should hold during meditation. Going to be reading random pages from this for conceivable future.
At only 3 hours, this is a short introduction to Zen in the form of a collection of talks.
A good perspective, but got too repetitive. Could have been half the length. Had a heavier, more strict tone than most Zen Buddhism books and teachers. Was overall less relatable to me.
The title could make this easy to mistake as a beginners book, which it isn't.
At only 3 hours, this is a short introduction to Zen in the form of a collection of talks.
