Language used: English • I suggest reading Zen Flesh, Zen Bones before proceeding to devour The Book of Five Rings. Getting an idea on what Zen is about; could lead to a better understanding of Miyamoto Musashi's ideas about strategy and discipline.
Get Zen Flesh, Zen Bones on paperback: https://amzn.to/36a1kvX
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Show Notes:
(0:00:00) - Exploring Zen and Its Philosophical Concepts (24 Minutes)
Zen Flesh, Zen Bones is a compilation of four books that were transcribed from ancient manuscripts in the 1930s. It is a special teaching without scriptures, which points to the essence of man and enlightenment. It is similar to stoicism in its approach to self-discovery, and can be used to sharpen the mind and stay in the present moment. While Musashi seemed to apply Zen concepts like stillness and clarity in his sword discipline, he did not follow the full Buddhist tradition, as he killed in his lifetime.
(0:23:37) - The Essence of Zen Teachings (7 Minutes)
Zen principles advocate for the middle path and living a simple life. The second book, The Gateless Gate, offers problems to students to stop their mind from wandering and to focus on Zen.
(0:31:06) - Exploring Zen Enlightenment and Its Challenges (20 Minutes)
We explore the Zen master's Koan, or paradoxical problems, and how they can be used to reach enlightenment. We look at the example of the "short staff", one of forty-two problems, and a master's comment on it. We consider the implications of this teaching and how it relates to Buddhism and its engagement with the illusory world. Finally, we discuss the third book of Zen Flesh, Zen Bones, Ten Bulls, a short and dense book.
(0:51:07) - The Power of Zen in Literature (6 Minutes)
We also explore the importance of understanding Zen and the implications it has for one's spiritual and practical life.
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