Book Discussion 5/4: Hoofprint of the Ox [ZEN PRIMER] by Zen Master Sheng Yen

Let's embark on another Dharma exploration and discuss the Zen primer book, Hoofprint of the Ox by late Chan (Zen) Master Sheng-Yen, founder of Dharma Drum Mountain Buddhist Association. We will take our time to discuss this book and meet once every two to three weeks.

READING:
- Ch 10 What It Means to Be a Chan Master
- Ch 11 The Ten Oxherding Pictures - Up to (not including "1 Looking at the Ox")
- If possible read through Ch 11 in case we can finish the discussions

DESCRIPTION
From book description: "...Master Sheng-yen shares his wisdom and teachings in this first comprehensive English primer of Chan, the Chinese tradition of Buddhism that inspired Japanese Zen..."
"Master Sheng-yen provides an unprecedented understanding of Chan, its precepts, and its practice. Beginning with a basic overview of Buddhism and meditation, Hoofprint of the Ox details the progressive mental exercises traditionally followed by all Buddhists. Known as the Three Disciplines, these procedures develop moral purity, meditative concentration, and enlightening insight through the "stilling" of the mind. Master Sheng-yen then expounds Chan Buddhism, recounting its centuries-old history in China and illuminating its fundamental tenets. He contemplates the nature of Buddhahood, specifies the physical and mental prerequisites for beginning Chan practice, and humbly considers what it means to be an enlightened Chan master."

WHERE TO GET THE BOOK:

1. Amazon Link
2. Thrift Books Link
3. Google Play Link

NOTE: that we are here to read, exchange and help each other. We’re not here to expound. If you need deeper learning, please go visit a Buddhist teaching center. We will be adhering to the contents of the book. We will not have any inter-religious discussions. If you like to discuss any topics with anyone not pertaining to the book, we advise you to initiate a conversation with whomever on another zoom at another time, not during the book club discussion. Thank you for understanding.

Intro video to book club

- - - About the Author
Chan Master Sheng Yen - https://www.shambhala.com/the-legacy-of-master-sheng-yen/