QUESTIONS TO A ZEN MASTER
TAISEN DESHIMARU
Practical and Spiritual answers from
The Great Japanese Master
Translated and edited by Nancy Amphoux
Publisher’s notes
In this volume, published shortly before his death, the great Japanese master Taisen Deshimaru offers direct answers to a layman’s basic questions about one of the most influential spiritual movements of our time.
Questions to a Zen Master retains the spontaneity and freshness of the mondo – the traditional question-and-answer format of zazen training sessions. Here, in dialogue between student and teacher, are practical suggestions for developing unitary mind-body consciousness through posture, breathing, and concentration; and clear, easily understood definitions of such concepts as karma and satori. Deshimaru’s is the voice of a true master, neither simplistic nor over refined, and his message will be a breath of fresh air for novice and initiate alike.
CONTENTS
Translator’s note
Introduction: Zazen, the Wakeful Posture of Awakening
THE MIDDLE WAY
HUMAN BEING
Ego
Karma
Illusions, attachment, suffering
Helping others
Good and evil
Death
ZEN AND THE WEST
Modern civilization
Everyday life
Zen and Christianity
AWAKENING
Consciousness
Impermanence hear and now
Satori
PRACTICE
Zazen
Posture
Tradition
A DIALOGUE WITH CHRISTIAN MONKS
Glossary