Noh (能) is one of the traditional theater plays in the fourteen century’s Japan. It liberally means talent or skill in this Chinese character. But it implies a lot more in-depth. One of the key figures in this tradition is Zeami (世阿弥: 1363-1443). He was a Noh actor; at the same time, created playwrights and … Continue reading The Eye of Detachment
Tag: #Contemplation
The Five Precepts
In Buddhism, there are five precepts that people are supposed to observe. There are a lot more for monks and serious practitioners. But in general, these five precepts could be the basis. There are various ways of sayings from the ancient Pali canons to Sanskrit versions to Chinese ones, and more. In English, we could … Continue reading The Five Precepts
Like Water, Like a Rock
The Noble Eightfold Path can be divided into three divisions. The first division covers the right view and right resolve, which could be how we see the world and ourselves. The second is for the right speech, right action, and right livelihood, which could be our applications for ethical virtues. And the third is for … Continue reading Like Water, Like a Rock
Doubting Thomas, the Apostle
Among miracles in the all Gospels, the resurrection should be the most significant event, especially of both Lazarus and Jesus. As the foundation of Christianity, the implication is transcending death and life beyond spacetime toward non-boundary, called eternal life. It is a glimpse of the eternity, manifested in our dualistic spacetime. It's so paradoxical and … Continue reading Doubting Thomas, the Apostle
True Obedience
Once Meister Eckhart was asked: What should we do and where should we go to seek peace and God? Are there any practices? It seems there are a lot. His answer, however, was "No!" I was once asked: 'Some people like to withdraw from company and prefer always to be alone. That is where they … Continue reading True Obedience
The Cloud of Unknowing
The Cloud of Unknowing is one of the key books for traditions of contemplative prayer, written anonymously by the late fourteen century’s monk in England. The book is a sort of guidance for spiritual pursuit, focusing on the state of contemplation. It consists of seventy five chapters. Like the Bible and other spiritual readings, we … Continue reading The Cloud of Unknowing
The Prayer of True Obedience
Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.Psalm 46:10 It is one of the best-known verses for Christian contemplative prayer. When we pray, first of all, we have to be still. Even when Jesus prayed, he was always alone to be … Continue reading The Prayer of True Obedience
