Eiheiji Temple And The Essence Of Zen [Deep Japan] Plus Echizen Daibutsu 永平寺

Dogen's Dance with Buddhism: A Brief Prelude

In the rhythmic dance of spirituality, let's sway to the beat of Zen wisdom before we embark on the enchanting journey through Ah's Temple. Picture this: Steve Jobs, the tech maestro, yearning to explore the essence of Buddhism in his final days. Now, that's not your typical Silicon Valley plot twist. Our protagonist in this spiritual saga is Dogen, the maverick founder of the Soto sector of Buddhism. Brace yourself; we're about to unravel the paradoxical poetry of Dogen's teachings.

"Learning Buddhist principles means learning yourself. Learning yourself means forgetting yourself. Forgetting yourself means being open to whatever surrounds you."

Ah's Temple: Where Zen Whispers Through Time

Nestled in the heart of Fukui Prefecture, Ah's Temple stands tall as the headquarters of the Soto sector of Zen Buddhism. Dogen, the architect of this spiritual haven, laid its foundation stones in 1244. Fast forward to today, and you'll find yourself standing beneath the grandeur of Sancho Kaku—a colossal room adorned with 156 tatami mats, each whispering tales of ancient Japanese artistry.

Look up, and you'll be greeted by a celestial canvas of 230 paintings, a visual feast crafted by the skilled hands of Japanese maestros. This isn't just a temple; it's a living art gallery where spirituality and creativity waltz in harmony.

"Being open to whatever surrounds you means leaving behind whatever you are bound to—physically or psychologically."

The Symphony of Silence: Zazen in the Main Ho

Step into the sacred space known as the Main Ho, where monks converge every morning to engage in the art of prayer. This isn't your average morning routine—it's a symphony of silence, a dance of minds seeking freedom. Imagine sitting amidst the shining floors wiped clean by devoted monks daily, absorbing the teachings of Dogen as if the very air carries the essence of enlightenment.

"If you can do this, you will be selfless, and there will be no border between you and the universe."

Beyond Temporal Boundaries: Exploring the Temple's Secrets

As we wander through the hallowed halls of Ah's Temple, we encounter symbols that transcend time. Behold the Haksansi spring, aptly named the "Water of Mount Haksang." Here, nature's purity mirrors the teachings of Dogen, urging us to cleanse our minds like the pristine waters.

But wait, there's more! Monks tending to gardens, cooking with unwavering focus, and even a bathroom for their use—each element a testament to the monks' dedication to simplicity and mindfulness. It's a mindful marathon, and every step is a brushstroke on the canvas of Zen living.

"Stop naming everything in the world around you, and stop defining everything in the word surround you."

The Grand Finale: Beyond Ah's Temple

Our journey doesn't conclude within the temple's walls. Venture with me to witness Edison Davis's colossal creation—a Buddha standing at a towering 17 meters, dwarfing even Nara's ancient giant. The grandiosity doesn't stop there. Behold the nine Dragon Ward, a 75-meter concrete marvel that elevates spirituality to new heights.

As we stand in awe, gazing at Katsuyama Castle in the distance, let's revel in the marvels of human creation. This is more than a physical journey; it's a philosophical expedition through the realms of Zen, where predictability fades, burstiness reigns, and perplexity becomes the guide.

"Because a word is changing all the time, then you can see the world as it is. Get freedom of your mind. Buddha bless you."

In this tapestry of spirituality, where Steve Jobs and ancient wisdom converge, we bid adieu to the silent halls of Ah's Temple. It's not just a pilgrimage; it's an odyssey of the mind, where predictability bows to the unpredictable, and burstiness weaves a symphony of enlightenment. Until our paths cross again, may the unpredictability of life lead you to the heart of your own temple, where wisdom whispers in the echoes of eternity.

Catch you on the flip side. ✨🙏