Zen Flesh, Zen Bones: A Collection of Zen and Pre-Zen Writings

by Paul Reps Narrated by Peter Coyote

Overview

Here, in one volume are four original sources for Zen 101: Zen Stories, The Gateless Gate, Bulls, and Centering Together serve as a desirable volume of source readings for one already familiar with Zen. For the reader not familiar with Zen, this is an ideal introduction.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

"It has stayed with me for the last 30 years, a classic portraying Zen mind to our linear thinking." —Phil Jackson, Head Coach of the Chicago Bulls and author of Sacred Hoops

"This book was my introduction to Buddhism nearly thirty years ago. I am delighted to see this new edition of this wonderful classic." —Sylvia Boorstein, author of It's Easier Than You Think

"This book has been a steadfast portal through which millions in the West have peered to catch at the very least a glimpse of Zen mind at play in all its thought-shattering dialogue, humor, joy, and wisdom." —Jon Kabat-Zinn, author of Wherever You Go, There You Are

"Perhaps the first Dharma book I ever read, Zen Flesh, Zen Bones, remains a classic, a gem, a gift to us all." —Dr. Daniel Goleman, author of Emotional Intelligence

"I honestly didn't know ancient Zen stories could be so entertaining, and I didn't expect these ancient texts would be so relatable too. […] This is for those who want a light, quick read—but are also searching for easily-digestible wisdom told in small bites." — Dominique Jardiolin, "Chroniqled" bookstagram

MAR/APR 98 - AudioFile

The essence of Zen--as a way of life, a religion, an aesthetic--can be found in the works of the Zen canon. Reps draws short stories and vignettes from such classic works as The Gateless Gate and 101 Zen Stories to help listeners come closer to answering the question: What is Zen? Peter Coyote, a student of Zen for more than 20 years, is well suited as a narrator of these tales. He reads in a calm voice with a patience and presence that reflect the Zen concept of mindfulness. To maintain the tranquility of this program, soft meditation bells ring between selections. P.B.J. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine

Product Details

BN ID:	2940178503744
Publisher:	Phoenix Books, Inc.
Publication date:	12/28/2007
Edition description:	Unabridged

Read an Excerpt

77. No Attachment to Dust
Zengetsu, a Chinese master of the T'ang dynasty, wrote the following advice for his pupils: Living in the world yet not forming attachments to the dust of the world is the way of a true Zen student.
When witnessing the good action of another encourage yourself to follow his example. Hearing of the mistaken action of another, advise yourself not to emulate it.
Even though alone in a dark room, be as if you were facing a noble guest. Express your feelings, But become no more expressive than your true nature.
Poverty is your treasure. Never exchange it for an easy life.
A person may appear a fool and yet not be one. He may only be guarding his wisdom carefully.
Virtues are the fruit of self-discipline and do not drop from heaven of themselves as does rain or snow.
Modesty is the foundation of all virtues. Let your neighbors discover you before you make yourself known to them.
A noble heart never forces itself forward. Its words are as rare gems, seldom displayed and of great value.
To a sincere student, every day is a fortunate day. Time passes but he never lags behind. Neither glory nor shame can move him.
Censure yourself, never another. Do not discuss right and wrong.
Some things, though right, were considered wrong for generations. Since the value of righteousness may be recognized after centuries, there is no need to crave an immediate appreciation.
Live with cause and leave results to the great law of the universe. Pass each day in peaceful contemplation.
—Zen Flesh Zen Bones: A Collection of Zen and Pre-Zen Writings, pp. 115-116

Videos