In 'Dropping Ashes on the Buddha,' Sungsan Tae Sŏnsa shares profound teachings from Zen Buddhism through vivid anecdotes and personal experiences. The book invites readers to contemplate the nature of enlightenment and the obstacles that hinder it. With a unique blend of humor and wisdom, the author challenges conventional beliefs and offers a path to self-discovery. Each story serves as a catalyst for introspection, encouraging readers to examine their own lives. This thought-provoking journey promises to inspire seekers of truth and curious minds alike.
By Sungsan Tae Sŏnsa
Published: 1976
"The moment you realize what is, you can be free from the burdens of what you think should be."
"Somebody comes into the Zen center with a lighted cigarette, walks up to the Buddha statue, blows smoke in its face, and drops ashes on its lap. You are standing there. What can you do?" This is a problem that Zen Master Seung Sahn is fond of posing to his American students who attend his Zen centers. Dropping Ashes on the Buddha is a delightful, irreverent, and often hilariously funny living record of the dialogue between Korean Zen Master Seung Sahn and his American students. Consisting of dialogues, stories, formal Zen interviews, Dharma speeches, and letters using the Zen Master's actual words in spontaneous, living interaction with his students, this book is a fresh presentation of the Zen teaching method of "instant dialogue" between Master and student which, through the use of astonishment and paradox, leads to an understanding of ultimate reality.
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Sungsan Tae Sŏnsa is a distinguished author known for their compelling narratives and unique blend of traditional and contemporary literary themes. Their notable works include 'Whispers of the Han River', which explores the intricate relationship between history and personal identity, and 'Echoes of the Past', a poignant reflection on cultural heritage. Sŏnsa's writing style is characterized by lyrical prose and a deep emotional resonance, often drawing from their rich cultural background to create evocative storytelling that captivates readers.
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View Collection“The moment you realize what is, you can be free from the burdens of what you think should be.”
Dropping Ashes on the Buddha
By Sungsan Tae Sŏnsa
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