Question
1- What is devotion in Zen, during zazen and in daily
life? What is its object?
2- Does Zen practice include repeating a sacred Name or a
mantra? Do you teach it? I understand this is the essential practice
of Pure Land Buddhism, and invoking the Name is found in
every spiritual tradition: Christian hesychasm of the desert
fathers, dhikr in Islam, mantra in Hinduism… For those unfamiliar with it,
hesychasm is the posture and breathing of zazen
with the simple addition of a prayer whispered in rhythm with inhaling and exhaling,
thus naming the breath as Divine Breath. Invoking a
mantra helps me greatly to concentrate and observe in daily
life. It is a beautiful discovery. It is a beautiful Presence.
Gassho.
Emmanuel
Master Kosen’s answer
During traditional zazen, we do not consciously use the five senses, so there are no visualizations or recitations. Outside zazen itself, however, there are many other supplementary practices, such as reciting sutras, mantras, prayers, or various ceremonies.
Master Dogen says, however, that they are not essential.
Kosen