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Opening a Mountain: Koans of the Zen Masters,Used
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With the growing popularity of Zen Buddhism in the West, virtually everyone knows, or thinks they know, what a koan is: a brief and baffling question or statement that cannot be solved by the logical mind and which, after sustained concentration, can lead to sudden enlightenment. But the truth about koans is both simplerand more complicatedthan this.In Opening a Mountain, Steven Heine shows that koans, and the questions we associate with themsuch as 'What is the sound of one hand clapping?'are embedded in larger narratives and belong to an ancient Buddhist tradition of 'encounter dialogues.' These dialogues feature dramatic and often inscrutable contests between masters and disciples, or between masters and an array of natural and supernatural forces: rouge priests, 'wild foxes,' hermits, wizards, shapeshifters, magical animals, and dangerous women. To establish a new monastery, 'to open a mountain,' the Zen master had to tame these wild forces in regions most remote from civilization. In these extraordinary encounters, fingers and arms are cut off, pitchers are kicked over, masters appear in and interpret each other's dreams, and seemingly absurd statements are shown to reveal the deepest insights. Heine restores these koans to their original traditions, allowing readers to see both the complex elements of Chinese culture and religion that they reflect and the role they played in Zen's transformation of local superstitions into its own teachings.Offering a fresh approach to one of the most crucial elements of Zen Buddhism, Opening a Mountain is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the full story behind koans and the mysterious worlds they come from.
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- Q: How many pages are in the book? A: This book contains two hundred pages. It provides a comprehensive exploration of Zen koans and their cultural significance.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The binding type is paperback. This makes it lightweight and easy to handle for reading.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures eight point nine four inches in length, five point eight three inches in width, and zero point six four inches in height. This size is convenient for carrying.
- Q: What is the genre of 'Opening a Mountain'? A: The genre is Zen Buddhism. It explores the intricacies of koans through historical and cultural contexts.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author is Steven Heine. He is well-known for his work in Zen studies and Buddhist literature.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in Zen Buddhism? A: Yes, it is suitable for beginners. The book provides insights into koans that are accessible to readers new to Zen.
- Q: How should I approach reading this book? A: It is recommended to read it slowly and reflectively. Engaging with the koans can enhance understanding and insight.
- Q: What age group is this book appropriate for? A: This book is appropriate for adults and mature readers. It delves into philosophical themes that require thoughtful consideration.
- Q: How do I store this book to keep it in good condition? A: Store the book in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps preserve the binding and pages.
- Q: How do I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: Gently wipe the cover with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions on the pages.
- Q: What should I do if the book arrives damaged? A: Contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most retailers have policies in place for damaged items.
- Q: Can I return this book if I don't like it? A: Yes, most retailers offer a return policy. Check the specific terms of the seller from whom you purchased.
- Q: Are there any special features included in this book? A: No special features are mentioned. The book focuses on the text and narratives surrounding Zen koans.
- Q: Is this book well-reviewed by readers? A: Yes, it has received positive reviews. Readers appreciate its depth and clarity on Zen koans.
- Q: Are there other books by Steven Heine I should consider? A: Yes, Steven Heine has authored several other works on Zen Buddhism. Exploring his bibliography can provide further insights.