Hakuin Series- Essential Teachings
The Essential Teachings of Zen Master Hakuin
In a Zen monastery, a designated week of intensive practice (Sesshin) can be unswervingly intimidating. The monks dread the long disciplined hours sitting and the seemingly relentless interviews with the Zen Master. Knowing the sorry state of affairs of the Buddhist practice in the surrounding temples, Hakuin decided to shoot for the moon. He wanted his students to tackle the most exhalted collection of koans, The Record of Kido Chigu. But before he could approach such lofty ideals, the monks needed to be inspired to seek such high standards of themselves. Hakuin gave the lectures included in this book in an informal manner, without all the bows and drums of a formal lecture. I can almost picture a roomful of baldheaded young men crowded around the tall chair of their master. Hakuin is leaning over the monks at his feet, spilling his heart, gently gesturing to make his points clear. This is what he was saying.