Body Quote by Dogen
“Whenever learners or those beyond learning awaken the mind, for the first time they plant one buddha-nature. Working with the four elements and five clusters, if they practice sincerely they attain enlightenment. Working with plants, trees, fences and walls, if they practice sincerely they will attain enlightenment. This is because the four elements and five clusters and plants, trees, fences and walls are fellow students; because they are of the same essence, because they are the same mind and the same life, because they are the same body and the same mechanism.”
About This Quote
Awakening the mind plants the Buddha‑nature, recognizing all elements and structures as fellow students sharing the same essence, leading to enlightenment through sincere practice.
In simple terms: Awakening mind sees all things as connected, fostering enlightenment.
Practice sincerely with all surroundings.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- meditation
- nature study
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does seeing everything as one affect personal identity?
- Can we honor uniqueness while seeing unity?
Recognizing sameness may overlook individual differences.