94 of 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination

[Shokai]

18 Quaint gate.jpg
一百八法明門
IPPYAKUHACHI-HOMYOMON
One Hundred and Eight Gates of Dharma-Illumination

[94] The four elements of sociability are a gate of Dharma-illumination; for [with them] we accept all living beings and, after we have attained [the truth of] bodhi, we bestow upon all liv-
-ing beings the Dharma.

The four elements of sociability, are: (1) Giving, (2) Kind speech, (3) Beneficial help, and (4) Consistency/Cooperation. These actions are designed to build harmonious relationships, express compassion, and alleviate suffering in social interactions. These four actions act like a "linchpin in a moving cart," fostering unity in the world and representing a bodhisattva's active engagement with living beings.

How do you feel about this Gate ?
( You may want to check out Domyo Burke's Zen Studies on this subject.)

合掌,生開
gassho, Shokai
stlah
仁道 生開 / Jindo Shokai
"Open to life in a benevolent way"

[Seikan]

This gate represents the other side of the coin from our more inward, contemplative practices. This is where we take any insights gained "on the cushion" and apply them in a more engaged way with the people and the world around us. It's like the final frame of the Ten Ox Herding Pictures where the enlightened monk returns to the outside world ("Entering the Marketplace with Open Hands") to help liberate other beings.

Gassho,
Seikan
stlah

[Ryūdō-Liúdào]

I think you may need to edit this to fix the top part, Shokai hehehe

I tend to see the four elements of sociability as a very natural, sustainable way for people to relate to one another. So much of humanity’s growth seems to come from cooperation and mutually supportive relationships (and sure, maybe a bit of our “bunny-like” reproduction didn’t hurt either when compared to the Neanderthals and Denisovans! ).

Nothing too mystical about it, really. Just something that becomes pretty clear through experience: when people genuinely support one another, things tend to work out better for everyone.

Gasshō,
流道-Ryūdō-Liúdào
Satlah

[Tenryu]

So this is just ordinary life, then. Giving, speaking kindly, being of some help, staying steady with people—it’s already there in simple interactions.

Not something to perfect, more something to take care of. When it’s there, things feel a bit more at ease. Connections form without much effort.

Gasshō,
Tenryū
st•lah

[Choujou]

I feel that this gate falls in line with the three pure precepts, as well as that of the path of the bodhisattva, seeking to liberate all sentient beings. I think this gate deals with the practical application of bringing what we learn on the zafu into the world. It is sound advice, however, it is important to note that “giving” doesn’t necessarily mean money or some material good, but can also be time, empathy, or even “not giving” to give a push for them to accomplish something they need to do themselves (encouragement). While it may seem simple at first glance I feel that this gate has its subtleties as well.

Gassho,
Choujou

sat/lah today

[Tairin]

Thank you Shokai.

How do I feel about this Gate? Well imagine a world where everyone exhibited Giving, Kind speech, Beneficial help, and Consistency/Cooperation. That is a world I want to live in. Meanwhile I will do my best to demonstrate those characteristics in my own life.


Tairin
sat today and lah

[Seiraku]

These elements make sense to be the way to accept all beings, because how could how could you be cooperative, helpful, giving and with kind speech when not accepting someone? I'd also like to live in a world with everyone doing this, and will strive to start with myself.

Gassho,
Seiraku
Satlah

[Chikyou]

This gate is honestly great advice in all areas of life. Even if one has never encountered the concept of the Dharma, this is fantastic advice for living in society. Maybe that’s the point — you don’t need religion to benefit from a good and peaceful society. Perhaps this is an example of skillful means.

Gassho,
SatLah,
Chikyō