George Washington served in the militia, then worked as a surveyor and justice of the peace. In choosing to fight for a new nation, he did so without bad-mouthing the King. As a Revolutionary General, then as President, he listened to opposing counselors then looked for the best way forward based on their varied positions…
Tilopa was at the top of his game. He was in charge of spiritual teaching at court, had piles of money and was loved by everyone. Despite all of this he felt empty and unfulfilled. He knew the scriptures by heart, performed the rituals and practices religiously, and was widely seen as a powerful teacher.…
Lord Shiva is in charge of destruction, a powerful responsibility which may confuse those who don’t know much about him. He is an important example of celibacy, but has many wives and children. He is in charge of annihilation, but believes there is no death and no one to be killed. He is responsible for…
Koan found in Zen Flesh, Zen Bones
The Lone Samurai, by William Scott Wilson, relates the following story: On the way to a famous match, Miyamoto Musashi was passing a shrine dedicated to the god of war. He stopped a moment, intending to pray to the god for victory, but when walking to the altar he realized something important. Musashi had never…
Koan found in Zen Flesh, Zen Bones
Kukkuripa worked hard over many years to find spiritual freedom. During this time he found and adopted a dog who devotedly guarded him as he worked, shared the scraps of food he managed to gather, and protected their cave when he was gone. Kukkuripa loved her very much. Realizing a level of attainment, Kukkuripa was…
Koan found in Zen Flesh, Zen Bones
Indrabhuti was a Tibetan king who practiced his religion diligently. Wanting his kingdom to grow he arranged for his sister, Laksminkara, to marry a neighboring prince. The young lady wanted instead to find spiritual peace so she ran away to seek Enlightenment. After she realized truth, she returned to serve the poor and teach subjects in her former home. Rather than be angry, Indrabhuti was inspired by…
Koan found in Zen Flesh, Zen Bones
AlphaBuddha 