Discussion Topic for Tuesday Tea at Two on May 11, 2021 2PM EDT – Death Poems.
It is not unusual in contemplative spiritual practices for people to compose a death poem. These are often a gift to those left behind and very often a window into the wisdom and compassion derived from contemplated old age, sickness and death. Today we will look at two classic death poems for different eras as well as other related poetry as our topic. Please feel welcome to join us for a rich discussion.
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Death poem of Zen Master Keizan (considered the second Japanese Soto Zen Lineage).
“This peaceful rice-field that one has cultivated by oneself, however often one has gone to sell or buy (rice) is as a virgin land. Young sprouts and spiritual seeds, infinitely, ripen and shed (their leaves). Ascending the Dharma Hall, I see men holding a hoe in their hands.” Then throwing away his brush, Keizan passed away.
Keizan —1325
Here is Abbot Myogen Steve Stucky’s “death poem (March 6, 1946 – December 31, 2013),” which was on the altar in the room where is body was laid out.
This human body truly is the entire cosmos
Each breath of mine, is equally one of yours, my darling
This tender abiding in “my” life
Is the fierce glowing fire of inner earth
Linking with all pre-phenomena
Flashing to the distant horizon
From “right here now” to “just this”
Now the horizon itself
Drops away—
Bodhi!
Svaha.
Myogen ——12/27/13
The discussion will be lead by All Beings Zen Sangha
Guiding Teacher Rev. Inryū Poncē-Barger, Sensei.
All Are Welcome
