Eihei Dôgen: Unveiling Interconnectedness and Buddha-Nature Across Boundaries

Eihei Dôgen: Unveiling Interconnectedness and Buddha-Nature Across Boundaries

Dr Revathy Menon

Eihei Dôgen, a seminal figure in Zen Buddhism, transcends cultural and temporal boundaries, offering insights into the interconnectedness of existence. His philosophy, deeply rooted in the concept of Buddha-nature, challenges conventional perspectives by extending this notion beyond sentient beings to include all aspects of the natural world. Dôgen’s writings, particularly in the Shôbôgenzô, explore the intrinsic unity of all phenomena, advocating for a holistic understanding of life that encompasses both sentient and nonsentient beings. Through his concept of ‘corealization,’ Dôgen emphasizes the mutual interdependence of all forms of existence, urging a compassionate and mindful engagement with the world. This paper delves into Dôgen’s philosophical discourse, highlighting his unique approach to Buddha-nature and its implications for understanding the relational self and the broader ecological context. Exploring Dôgen’s teachings enriches one’s understanding of life’s complexity and underscores the significance of adopting an inclusive, interconnected worldview, which holds the promise of elevating our global community and contributing to environmental improvement and restoration promising a sustainable world for all.

Keywords: Eihei Dôgen, Zen Buddhism, Buddha-nature, Interconnectedness, Corealization.