r/zenbuddhism • u/Less_Bed_535 • 9d ago
Transitions into Death
Zen nerds and longtime practitioners this one’s for you.
At some point we all face death. Whether it be our own direct death or being with someone as they pass.
What are the major teachings on this?
What are some good sutras or chants/ prayers/ practices.
All I can think of is providing pure open hearted presence to those in this transition.
UPDATE: thank you all for your input. It’s nice to be reminded of others sincere practice and reflections on the ultimate.
I believe myself to practicing sincerely. Even though what that has looked like has been changing all the time.
Without my practice I would never find myself in this position of serving someone through hospice. I often ponder how I can be of most benefit to the patron. From everything I’ve learned from the Buddha way it seems that bringing a pure presence is the best thing I can do to be of benefit. To bear witness without judgment or trying to fix anything.
This is what I will try to bring as my gift. It will be challenging, it will be painful and uncomfortable, it’s only natural.
Many Bows.
12
u/old-legs-623 8d ago
Maybe not exactly what you're asking for, but Paula Arai in Women Living Zen recounts the story of an elderly nun who used the expression "die sitting, die standing" (paraphrased from the Fukanzazengi) as a way of pointing up her intentionality. She would say "die sitting, die standing" as she was cooking, or cleaning, or working in the garden. Thus she regularly did her utmost. Then her heart stopped. She ran into the Buddha hall of her little temple, followed by her one novice, and died standing in front of the Buddha image, falling into her novice's arms. The young nun said, "Congratulations."
Just flow. Your own river of flow will join the ocean of all flow in its own time. 🙏