Question
Hello, in answer to JF’s question about pain that limits him in
zazen, you mention your own injuries and pain, and speak of the individual breaking down while the Buddha takes shape at the same time. That is very, very interesting. This raises a question: is pain—physical or otherwise—a sign or indicator of the transformation from individual to Buddha, or is it unimportant? I have seen several people around me who were “engaged” in spiritual transformation experience very intense events of this kind at some point: accidents, paralyzing pain, cardiac arrests… Is it simply chance? If not, what purpose does it serve? Facing fear?
Sincere thanks,
SF
Anonymous
Answer from Master Kosen
Ouch!
Kosen