Shore - Enjoying the Way（《乐道歌》）英文文献资料.pdfVIP

Enjoying the Way Introductory Lecture Jeff Shore Enjoying the Way is the title of an early Chinese Zen poem that will be presented here for the first time in English translation. But let me begin with some introductory remarks. Recently I have been traveling in Europe and North America. Buddhist statues are everywhere: in shops, gardens, living rooms. What is their appeal, even for many who do not consider themselves Buddhist? These statues, often of a Buddha seated in meditation, give a sense of composure or calm repose. The statues are of varying quality, but the better ones express imperturbable calm, a boundless composure that cannot be disturbed. This is a central facet of Buddhism. But that is not all. There is also a boundless joy. For example, look at the garish “laughing Buddha” statues that greet you at the entrance to Chinese restaurants worldwide, or better yet, at the fine ink paintings depicting the legendary Hanshan [Kanzan eccentric Chinese “Cold Mountain” monk]. Calmness and joy might even seem conflicting attitudes: if really calm, you’re not joyful; if joyful, you’re not calm. Yet these two – and much more – are clearly expressed in fine Buddhist sculpture, painting, and so on. From where does this boundless calm and this boundless joy arise? These concrete depictions in wood, metal or on paper are actually abstract embodiments of awakening. What is that? It is what we are here to realize and go beyond. th Hanshan and Shide, by Liang-kai (Chinese; 12-13 c.) 2