A Gift of Dharma for 12.25.09
by Danny Fisher
Today’s quote comes from the the ninth century Zen master Zengetsu.
In Buddhism and Zen, Nyogen Senzaki and Ruth Strout McCandless write, “The biography of Zengetsu is unknown except that he was a student of Tokusan (782-865 A.D.) and Sekiso (807-888 A.D.).”
These are his “Suggestions for Zen Students,” quoted by Senzaki and McCandless in Buddhism and Zen, pg. 70-1:
Living in the world, yet not clinging to or forming attachments for the dust of the world, is the way of a true Zen student.
In witnessing the good actions of another person, encourage yourself to follow his example. In hearing of the mistaken action of another person, advise yourself not to emulate it.
Even though you are alone in a dark room, conduct yourself as though you were facing a noble guest.
Express your feelings, but never become more expressive than your true nature.
Poverty is your treasure. Do not exchange it for an easy life.
A person may look like a fool and yet not be stupid. He may be conserving his wisdom and guarding it carefully.
The virtues are the fruits of self-discipline, and do not drop from heaven of themselves like rain or hail.
Modesty is the foundation of all virtues. Let your neighbors find you before you make yourself known to them.
A noble heart never forces itself forward. Its words are as rare as gems seldom displayed.
Every day is a fortunate day for a true student. Time passes but he never lags behind.
Neither glory nor shame can move his heart.
Do not discuss right or wrong. Always censure yourself, never another.
Some things, although right, were considered wrong for many generations. Since the value of righteousness may be recognized after centuries, there is no need to crave immediate appreciation.
Why do you not leave everything to the great law of the universe and pass each day with a peaceful smile?
