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Your body is like a dew-drop on the morning grass, your…

“Your body is like a dew-drop on the morning grass, your life is as brief as a flash of lightning. Momentary and vain, it is lost in a moment. (From 'Fukan zazengi')” quote by Dōgen Zenji
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““Your body is like a dew-drop on the morning grass, your life is as brief as a flash of lightning. Momentary and vain, it is lost in a moment. (From 'Fukan zazengi')””

Dōgen Zenji

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Life is fleeting and fragile, like a dew drop or lightning flash, urging mindfulness of impermanence.

In simple terms: Life is short and fragile.

Key Takeaway

Cherish each moment.

Themes

impermanence mindfulness mortality

Mood

contemplative serene

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • meditation
  • daily reflection
  • teaching moments
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

Zen Buddhism ephemerality existential awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does awareness of impermanence affect your daily choices?
  • What can you do to honor the briefness of life?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may overlook resilience and agency in life.

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