Dogen's Pure Standards for the Zen Community: A Translation of Eihei Shingi (S U N Y Series in Buddhist Studies)

Rating:
Summary: Philosophy in Practice--Dogen's Eihei Shingi
Review: For those addicted to Dogen's poetic and philosophical writings (and I include myself among our number), this volume provides a useful, and perhaps necessary, insight into Dogen's practical concerns for the sangha. These writings contain the depth of Dogen's philosophical insight into zazen practice while speaking of the day-to-day details of monastic life. The Shobogenzo speaks of enlightenment in and as the "myriad things," this volume reveals the concrete myriad things in Dogen's life.

Eihei Shingi is similar in style to Dogen's Shobogenzo Zuimonki as a down-to-earth collection of teachings meant to instruct monks. I believe it will appeal to those who enjoy Shobogenzo Zuimonki, those looking to create an authentic Zen monastic practice and devout Buddhists who have difficulty digesting Dogen's more mind-bending philosophical teachings.

As a non-scholar, I found the translation clear with sufficient footnotes to explain any ambiguities within the text! or thought. Many of the footnotes also appear to contain the insights of Rev. Shohaku Okumura and resonate with the teachings of Uchiyama Roshi and Kodo Sawaki Roshi.