Zen Daily Liturgy translated OpenAI ChatGPT corrected Gramarly

A temple in Ube City has asked me to briefly explain the "Zen Nika Seiten" (daily scripture recitation). Traditionally, Zen Buddhism has not focused on explaining scriptures. This is because the understanding of scriptures should be based on religious experience rather than mere intellectual comprehension. Merely reading or listening to the words and ending with a superficial understanding does not lead to actual realization. However, I still need to answer the questions the temple’s supporters posed. It would be unkind to respond, "Scriptures are to be understood through personal experience." Without disregarding any criticism, I have written this brief explanation.

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"Kai Kyō Verse"

Before chanting the sutra, this verse is chanted three times. It's like the run-up in sports. With a run-up, you can do the long jump. Therefore, the run-up is significant. Or it's like the overture in opera. The overture compresses the main themes and content of the opera. The overture has the role of building up the atmosphere. In the same way, before chanting the sutra, we touch upon the teachings of the Buddha or pay respects to our ancestors, and chant with that joy.

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"Hannya Shin Sutra"

In the Hannya Shin Sutra, the word "mu" (無) appears 21 times. When combined with the words "fu" (不) and "kū" (空), it becomes 36 times. Within less than 270 characters, there are 36 negations. What does this mean? It signifies a self-negation that says, "Wait a moment. Let's start over again." The way of living that "whips oneself and takes another step forward" is characteristic of Zen, particularly the Rinzai sect's religious doctrine. That's why the Hannya Shin Sutra is chanted multiple times daily in Zen temples. If you chant it with such a mindset, the Zen wisdom of Prajñā will emerge within you.

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"Daihi En Monbuge Jin Shyu"

In the dojo, this is chanted multiple times during morning and evening practices and lectures. It is also chanted during Buddhist memorial services. It means about that.

I take refuge in the Three Treasures of Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. I am devoted to the holy Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, a grand living being. I offer my devotion to the one who eliminates all fears. I offer my devotion to the one who accomplishes all things, attains auspiciousness, and reaches the ultimate destination.

坐禅会　毎週土曜日午前6：25～8：00　
久留米市宮の陣町大杜1577-1　圓通寺　
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