Body Quote by Dogen
“To study the buddha way is to study the self. To study the self is to forget the self. To forget the self is to be actualized by myriad things. When actualized by myriad things, your body and mind as well as the bodies and minds of others drop away. No trace of realization remains, and this no trace continues endlessly.”
About This Quote
Source Sutra: Shōbōgenzō, 1240s
Self‑study leads to self‑forgetting, dissolving ego and merging with the flow of all phenomena, resulting in boundless realization.
In simple terms: Let go of self to become one with everything.
Practice self‑less awareness.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- meditation retreats
- creative collaboration
- service work
- nature immersion
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “no trace of realization” mean for daily life?
- How can one balance self‑forgetting with healthy self‑care?
Risk of losing personal identity or agency.