Shinji Shobogenzo
Dogen studied Buddhism as a kid, but he did not hold the “True Dharma-Eye Treasury” until he returned from China. Dogen is synonymous with Zen teaching in Japan and even America today, but he stands on some mighty shoulders. His collection of 301 Zen stories, or koans, collected from several chinese anthologies provided inspiration and examples throughout his career of writing and lecturing. This collection has been ably translated by Gudo Nishijima, and his comments illuminate the spirit of each koan, providing a direct approach to the heart of Zen practice. Examining the sayings and actions of Zen giants has been a tradition for generations, and this is the encyclopedia for generations to come.

Popular collections like the Gateless Gate or Blue Cliff Records have accumulated pointers, verses, puctuating phrases, and reams of commentary. This collection lays the cases bare, and points to the heart of the exchange in plain language. This is a valuable book for Zen practitioners of any tradition.

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