Dōgen Zenji

Dōgen Zenji (1200–1253) was a Japanese Zen Buddhist teacher and founder of the Sōtō school. He emphasized that enlightenment is found through direct, mindful engagement with everyday activities, highlighting that practice and realization are inseparable. Dōgen's teachings advocate for "just sitting" (zazen), a meditative practice aimed at experiencing true nature beyond conceptual thinking. His writings, notably "Shōbōgenzō," explore profound insights into impermanence, interconnectedness, and the nature of existence. Dōgen's approach encourages practitioners to live fully present, integrating spiritual practice into all aspects of life.