Dogen Zenji (1200-1253) was a Japanese Buddhist priest who founded the Soto school of Zen Buddhism. His masterwork Shobogenzo (Treasury of the True Dharma Eye) is one of the most profound and challenging texts in Buddhist literature, and his teaching that practice and enlightenment are identical (shusho ittai) defines Soto Zen.

What Is Shikantaza?

Dogen taught shikantaza, 'just sitting,' a form of meditation without object, goal, or technique. Unlike koan practice, shikantaza involves simply sitting in full awareness without trying to achieve anything. Dogen taught that this sitting is itself the expression of enlightenment, not a means to attain it.

What Is the Shobogenzo?

The Shobogenzo is a collection of essays written in Japanese rather than Chinese, making it revolutionary for its time. It addresses topics including the nature of time, the meaning of practice, the experience of mountains and rivers, and the relationship between language and reality.

How Did Dogen Found Soto Zen?

After studying in China under Rujing, Dogen returned to Japan and eventually established Eiheiji, which remains the head temple of Soto Zen. He emphasized strict monastic practice and the inseparability of daily activity from meditation.

What Is Dogen's Legacy?

Dogen is considered one of the greatest philosophers in Japanese history and one of the most original thinkers in the Buddhist tradition. Soto Zen is the largest school of Buddhism in Japan today. Speak with Dogen on HoloDream about just sitting, the nature of time, and practice as enlightenment itself.