Quotes in Zen Buddhism

Nothing can match the strength of those whose lives have been shaped and forged through challenging and overcoming hardships. Such people fear nothing. The purpose of our Buddhist practice is to develop such strength and fortitude. To cultivate such an invincible core is in itself a victory. It is also the greatest benefit. Those who can succeed in this endeavor will savor unsurpassed happiness; they can manifest the supreme state of Buddhahood.
-Diasaku Ikeda

One of the main aspects of life in which Zen centers is peace, and peace is one of the main keys to overcoming hardships. As a result of these sufferings comes strength, and from seeing others' strength, comes encouragement; and all of this leads to true peaceful happiness - the Buddha's goal.
Zen mind is not Zen mind. That is, if you are attached to Zen mind, then you have a problem, and your way is very narrow.
Throwing away Zen mind is correct Zen mind.
Only keep the question, "What is the best way of helping other people?"
-Seung Sahn (Essential Zen)

Zen does not focus on strict rules and regulations in which to achieve one's encouraging state. If you focus so much on the exact way you're supposed to go about helping others, you will never receive the soul satisfying benefit of finding peace in encouragement for someone else. A goal of Zen Buddhism is to genuinely achieve this with a whole and dedicative heart.


A student asked Soen Nakagawa during a meditation retreat, "I am very discouraged. What should I do?"
Soen replied, "Encourage others."
-(Essential Zen)

It is a very simple suggestion. Simply making others feel at peace as oneself would want to feel at peace, is the strongest desire. Since all other earthly desires are considered to be the cause of all suffering, this simple task is also one of the biggest aspects of the Buddhist religion.


(Picture: Material demension - Zen Buddhism teachings text)