The Compass of Zen is a simple, clear, and often hilarious presentation of the essential teachings of the main Buddhist traditions -- culminating in Zen -- by one of the most beloved Zen Masters of our time. In his many years of teaching throughout the world, Zen Master Seung Sahn has become known for his unique ability to cut to the heart of Buddhist teaching in a way that is strikingly clear, without relying upon esoteric or academic language. In this book, based on his talks, he presents the basic teachings of Buddhism in a way that is wonderfully rich and accessible for both beginners and long-time students.
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"The Great Way and a dozen side paths: all are present in The Compass of Zen. However lost it may get you, it always points to true north, because it issues straight from the great bodhisattva heart of Zen Master Seung Sahn."
-- Stephan Mitchell, translator of the The Gospel According to Jesus"Like two arrows meeting in the air, this extraordinary book meets the mind point. Please relax and enjoy it thoroughly."
-- Joan Halifax, author of The Fruitful Darkness"The Compass is rich and full of energy, reflecting Dae Soen Sa Nim's limitless attainment. I am grateful that his unique and rare style of teaching is now even more accessible."
-- Jakusho Kwong-Roshi
Practicing Zen is like taking an airplane to Los Angeles. You get in this plane, and -- boom! -- you and all beings arrive together in Los Angeles. This airplane has no road! There is no path or way to come and go on. You attain your true self directly, completely, but you do it without any kind of map. It is not dependent on the sutras. It is not dependent on Buddha. It is not dependent on time or space, name or form, speech or words. It does not even depend on Zen. If you want to ride this plane, then from moment to moment just don’t make anything, and then you will realize that you are already complete. That is Zen mind. It is very simple.
A second excerpt - Song of Dharma Nature is also available on-line, as is a third excerpt, Clear Mary.
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