Reddit meter
Only Don't Know
256 pages, 1999
A unique collection of letters written by Korean Zen Master Seung Sahn—an intimate glimpse into the life of one of the most prominent contemporary spiritual teachers. In this engaging book, Seung Sahn responds to hundreds of letters written to him by his students. He responds not just as a teacher, but as a concerned and compassionate friend.
His advice deals with problems ranging from work and relationships to suffering—and especially to the teacher-student relationship—questions about Zen practice, and how a student should deal with the inevitable crises that arise in that practice.
Seung Sahn emphasizes the importance of embracing the 'don't know' mind. This means letting go of preconceived notions and judgments, and instead, approaching life with an open, curious mind. It's a powerful way to live in the present moment and experience life fully.
In Only Don't Know, you'll get a deep understanding of Zen. Seung Sahn explains that Zen is not about gaining knowledge, but about letting go of what we think we know. It's about experiencing life directly, without the filter of our thoughts and beliefs.
Seung Sahn provides practical guidance on meditation. He explains that meditation is not about achieving a certain state, but about being present and aware. It's a tool to help us let go of our thoughts and experience the 'don't know' mind.
In the book, Seung Sahn stresses the importance of compassion. He believes that when we let go of our ego and judgments, we naturally become more compassionate. This compassion extends not only to others, but also to ourselves.
Only Don't Know offers a roadmap to enlightenment. According to Seung Sahn, enlightenment is not a destination, but a way of being. It's about letting go of our attachments and experiencing life as it is, without judgment or resistance.
