Opening the Hand of Thought: Approach to Zen (Arkana)

English (translation)Original Japanese

Zen Buddhism, with its quirky appeal of paradoxical koans (such as, "What is the sound of one hand clapping?"), resists wide popularity because of its rigorous, long-term discipline for sincere students. Here a Japanese master who worked in America tries to clarify once again the simple but excruciating method of "just sitting," or zazen. The meditation hours consist in continually accepting but letting go of all thought and emotion. Ultimately, not even a satori , or moment of illumination, is enough. A joyful but disinterested compassion that unites the individual self with the universal Self is the goal. While simply written, this is not a book for beginners. In addition, the many footnotes are a distraction. For large libraries.
- Jeanne S. Bagby, formerly with Tucson P.L., Ariz.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.