The Fifty-second of 108 Gates Of Dharma Illumination

[Shokai]

52) The Fifty-second Gate: The Body as an Abode of Mindfulness
The body* as an abode* of mindfulness is a gate of Dharma illumination; for [with it] all dharmas are serene. (Nishijima/Cross)

The ground of mindfulness of the body is a gate of realizing dharma; it leads all things to serenity. (Tanahashi)
*[Body: the whole universe in ten directions is the real body Abode: a place in which a person resides]
Gate Gatha:

May we, together with all buddhas;
Relinquish our body to the home of mindfulness
That we may live intimately with its impurity.

Reflection Prompts:

1. How does mindfulness of our abode make dharmas serene?

2. Would you have realized Body as the whole universe in ten directions ?

3. write a new Gatha.

Capping Verse:

Knowing the whole world
As ourselves
We are always home

gassho,Shokai

[Jishin]

The Fifty-second of 108 Gates Of Dharma Illumination

1. Mindfulness of the body as an abode allows one to become aware of the present moment and all its sensations, thoughts, and emotions without judgment. This awareness leads to a greater understanding of the nature of all things, including the impermanence and interdependence of all dharmas. This understanding brings a sense of serenity and peace, as one realizes that everything is constantly changing and there is no permanent self.

2. Realizing the body as the whole universe in ten directions is a profound insight that can come from sustained mindfulness practice. It helps us understand that our individual experience is not separate from the experiences of others and that everything is connected. This insight can bring a sense of interconnectedness and compassion, as we see that our actions have an impact on the world around us and that we are all interconnected.

3. New Gatha:

May we, with every breath we take;
Embrace the body as the universe's gate
And find peace in its endless expanse

New capping verse:

In body we reside
Mindfulness, peace we provide
Serene, all dharmas unite

Gassho, Jishin, ST, LAH

[aprapti]

i came from nowhere
i go to nowhere
i am home


aprapti


sat

[Veronica]

1. How does mindfulness of our abode make dharmas serene?

Connecting mindfulness to our body is a beautiful simple practice, as our body is always there in a concrete way when we are seeking a calmer state. This only becomes available to us if we practice it.

2. Would you have realized Body as the whole universe in ten directions ?

Since doing some of the Zen readings, I now sometimes imagine little roots or trails of light that connect my body to everyone and everything. It's very soothing and it lets go of the separateness of self.

3. write a new Gatha.

May we, together with all buddhas;
Practice mindfulness of body
And experience the abode of the world

Veronica
stlah