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Acceptance Quote by Philip Kapleau

“Die while alive And be thoroughly dead. Then do what you will, All is good.” quote by Philip Kapleau
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“Die while alive And be thoroughly dead. Then do what you will, All is good.”

Philip Kapleau

About This Quote

Source Book: The Three Pillars of Zen, 1965

Life and death are paradoxical; embracing mortality can free one to act fully.

In simple terms: Accept death to live fully.

Key Takeaway

Embrace impermanence, act with purpose.

Themes

mortality freedom purpose

Mood

contemplative serene

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • meditation
  • end-of-life decisions
  • creative work
  • risk taking

Key Concepts

Zen philosophy existential acceptance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does confronting mortality change priorities?
  • What does “thoroughly dead” mean to you?
A Different Perspective

Denial of death can hinder practical action.

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