How to Practice the Six Points of Zen Satori

Satori is a Zen Buddhist concept that refers to awakening. Although Satori is a consequence of Zazen (Zen Sitting Practice), one is not to be attached to attaining satori, for satori is exquisite release from all clinging and, therefore, from suffering. Satori is wisdom that penetrates to and radiates from the whole being. According to the distinguishes, D.T. Suzuki, there are Six Points of Zen Satori.

Instructions

The Six Points of Zen Satori

1. 

   Construct an entirely different framework of understanding. In Zen practice, one must detach from any intended result of Zazen. When satori occurs, all previous means of comprehension are dissolved and new wisdom takes those places. Rational thinking is not a Zen concept and plays no part in satori.

2. 

   Realize the truth of Zen. This is impossible without satori, which is a sudden insight that eradicates in an instant one's former notions of duality. Satori is oneness.

3. 

   Dedicate all Zen efforts toward satori. Zen tradition emphasizes Sakyamuni Buddha's central teaching, which is attainment of awakening. Study of Buddhist sutras (teachings) and doctrinal issues support Zazen and have a purpose. However, Zen Buddhists seek to distill all activity toward the attainment of satori.

4. 

   Observe life in a new way. Abandon emphasis on intellect and its observations. Zen practice does not meditate on a fixed thought. Zazen is no-thought, no-self. Zen Buddhists responded to Buddhism's origins in Hindu tradition by moving beyond Hindu Dhyanna, meditation on thoughts.

5. 

   Reside in "no abiding place." Rather than seeking a mystical experience of God, Zen practice is attuned to not grasping for God realization. When Zen sees the work of creation, it continues Zazen, to just sit. That is the work of Zen, not to rest in God or any other place.

6. 

   Allow Zen to be your everyday thought. Satori is not an elevated state that looks down on others. It is awakened to daily existence and its tasks and experiences. Chop wood, carry water. That is satori.

Resources

• Satori in Zen Buddhism
• Satori Q&A Dark Zen
• Zen Buddhist Terms
• Zen FAQ's