SCRIPTURE AS KOAN

 I'm trying a different approach to Lectio Divina, using a model I borrowed from the case studies in the Zen tradition, which are called "Koan".

The tradition I'm copying presents the koan in a format that has a 'preface' then the 'main case'. It includes a commentary and an 'appreciative verse.'

The purpose of koan study is said to be 'to provoke the great doubt'. In my own practice, I've found that great doubt is indispensable, if I want to go through the gate of understanding.

The important aspect of all this; the part that I want to communicate most clearly; is that I enter into this process and practice of Lectio Divina without any preconceived ideas about what insight I might gain, or what "lesson" I might learn.

As a Buddhist as well as a follower of Christ, I have come to the understanding that we are all connected.
Knowing that, I choose to trust that whatever understanding I might have gleaned; whatever wisdom or enlightenment I may have glimpsed; they must be shared if they are to have any value at all.

So, here I am, sharing them, trusting that what moves me will move others.

At the Zendo where I occasionally practice, the monk who leads the evening zazen closes practice with this gatha:


ATTENTION!   ATTENTION!

LET ME RESPECTFULLY REMIND YOU—

LIFE AND DEATH ARE OF SUPREME IMPORTANCE.

TIME PASSES SWIFTLY BY

AND OPPORTUNITY IS LOST.

EACH OF US MUST STRIVE TO AWAKEN.


I offer it to you, my readers, in the hope that it will be as useful to you as I find it to be; an apt expression of intention.