Dogen, born Eihei Dogen in 1200 in Kyoto, Japan, was a pivotal figure in Japanese Buddhism, particularly known for founding the Soto Zen school. His life and teachings have had a profound impact on the development of Zen Buddhism both in Japan and globally.
Dogen was born into an aristocratic family but lost his parents at a young age. After his mother's death, he became deeply reflective about life and death, which led him to explore Buddhist teachings. At 13, he entered the Mt. Hiei monastery, the center of Tendai Buddhism in Japan. However, he was unsatisfied with the answers to his spiritual inquiries provided by the Tendai doctrines.
At 24, Dogen traveled to China in search of a deeper understanding of Buddhism. He studied under several masters but found his true mentor in Rujing at Tiantong Monastery, where he received direct transmission of the Dharma. Rujing taught him the practice of Shikantaza, or "just sitting," which would become a cornerstone of Soto Zen practice.
Upon returning to Japan in 1227, Dogen established the Kippo-ji temple in Kyoto, where he began teaching the Soto Zen philosophy. His teachings focused on:
Dogen is most renowned for his writings, particularly:
Dogen's influence extends beyond his immediate disciples. His teachings emphasize the unity of practice and enlightenment, the importance of direct experience, and the practice of zazen as the essence of Zen. His lineage continues through the Soto Zen school, which remains one of the most influential forms of Zen in Japan and worldwide.
After his death in 1253, Dogen's teachings were preserved and propagated by his successors, notably Keizan Jokin, who further expanded the Soto Zen school.