Zen master Hakuun Yasutani offers a groundbreaking commentary on Dōgen’s seminal text Genjōkōan, making these profound teachings accessible to Western audiences for the first time. Set against the backdrop of Japan’s tumultuous Meiji era, Yasutani’s work emerges as a beacon of spiritual insight, bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary seekers. His unique approach interweaves personal experience, historical context, and philosophical inquiry, creating a rich tapestry that illuminates the essence of Zen practice. His commentary challenges readers to move beyond superficial interpretations, urging them to engage deeply with their own experiences and recognize the interconnectedness of all phenomena. Through Yasutani’s voice, readers are invited to explore the depths of their own existence and are guided through an understanding of the essence of Dōgen’s teachings.
Yasutani Hakuun (1885-1973) was born in Japan during the Meiji era. Born into a poor family, he was adopted at the age of five and went to live in a country temple. He trained in many temples before starting a family at the age of thirty. At forty, he returned to the priesthood again, and eventually came to study with the Soto priest Harada Sogaku. Under this teacher, Hakuun's practice deepened, and he went on to teach monks and lay practitioners. He authored almost one hundred volumes of writings.
Zen master Hakuun Yasutani offers a groundbreaking commentary on Dōgen’s seminal text Genjōkōan, making these profound teachings accessible to Western audiences for the first time. Set against the backdrop of Japan’s tumultuous Meiji era, Yasutani’s work emerges as a beacon of spiritual insight, bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary seekers. His unique approach interweaves personal experience, historical context, and philosophical inquiry, creating a rich tapestry that illuminates the essence of Zen practice. His commentary challenges readers to move beyond superficial interpretations, urging them to engage deeply with their own experiences and recognize the interconnectedness of all phenomena. Through Yasutani’s voice, readers are invited to explore the depths of their own existence and are guided through an understanding of the essence of Dōgen’s teachings.
Author
Yasutani Hakuun (1885-1973) was born in Japan during the Meiji era. Born into a poor family, he was adopted at the age of five and went to live in a country temple. He trained in many temples before starting a family at the age of thirty. At forty, he returned to the priesthood again, and eventually came to study with the Soto priest Harada Sogaku. Under this teacher, Hakuun's practice deepened, and he went on to teach monks and lay practitioners. He authored almost one hundred volumes of writings.
