230625: this is curious review for curious book. this is zen as religion. there is no talk of theory. if zen has any. the beginning is perhaps distasteful, resembling the worst practices of many kinds of cults from religious to military. only gradually does the author start to, with relevant quotes and sutras, give sense of this spiritual adventure he has embarked upon, in describing in great detail of his experience...
I found fascinating the direct, unedited, simple descriptions of the most banal rules for everything from how to defecate, how to eat gruel, how to bathe, how to sleep etc. I found fascinating the embodied practice of buddhism in chants and repetitious prostrations. I found it fascinating place to read about but I would not like to live there. I recognise how the author feels he has changed by the end. I feel talking about zen is as empty as wind in the leaves of trees, but even less meaningful...
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