Title: Introduction to Zen Training
Author: Omori Sogen
Publisher: Tuttle Publishing
Publish Date: 02/04/2020
Format: Paperback
Pages: 288
Cover Price: $14.99
Content
Open Omori Sogen’s Introduction to Zen Training and you can expect a very comprehensive guide to getting into Zen, particularly the Rinzai sect. In fact, this book, written by a notable Zen teacher from the previous century, is a translation of a Zen classic, Sanzen Nyumon. With seven chapters plus an epilogue, it deeply covers everything an interested beginner needs: from breathing to posture to finding the right teacher.
The last two chapters are text from two other prominent Zen documents—Zazan Wasen and The Ten Ox-Herding Pictures—alongside the author’s notes.
Pros
Overall, this is a very thoughtful and in-depth read, especially important for somebody newly delving into Zen training and philosophy. The chapters are put together in an intelligent order, covering the why, what, and how of meditation. After grounding the reader in how to get started in Zen, the book provides further insight by drawing upon additional Zen texts.
As a translation, Introduction to Zen Training reads quite clear. It is easy for instructions on Zen to come across to readers as either overly plain or overwhelmingly esoteric, however the author aides the reader’s comprehension and engagement by recounting his personal stories and commentary. This is very helpful in empathizing with the reader, not least of all as the author explores the different physical and mental states that arise during such training.
Of course, nothing can fully replace a live teacher in an art. Despite that, Introduction to Zen Training acts as a wonderful supplement to your studies and even explores what to look for while searching for a teacher. Again, I can’t stress this enough: this is a Zen classic for any and all interested beginners.
Cons
As is often the nature of books that take the deep dive into philosophy and the mind, it can get a bit heavy to read. It is not the kind of book to casually glance through. This is a book to be properly read, taking the time to ensure the author’s ideas are getting fully digested. Not at all a bad thing, however it is something to keep in mind in case you expected something different.
Conclusion
Five out of five Ninja Stars!
I greatly enjoyed Omori Sogen’s Introduction to Zen Training! As far as beginner texts on Zen, this is a classic to keep.
Thoughtfully put together and very comprehensive, I recommend this to any person interested in studying this topic more. Especially if they carry a specific interest in Rinzai Zen.
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