After a great deal of research, I purchased the "Classics of Buddhism and Zen," a collection of translations by Thomas Cleary, who is apparently an authority on these translations.

So I read 11 of the little sayings (the book is organized into hundreds of these short little stories or phrases ), and have already realized some very important things.


Although the books state that "nothing is more honorable than enlightenment, nothing is more beautiful than virtue," they are not things which a person strives to achieve; attempting to achieve or falsely create enlightened virtue proves and gains nothing. In order to achieve these, a true learner will strive for neither, rather they focus merely on acting true to themself and being the best person possible. If the learner can strive for these things, then virtue will come naturally.

Study can bring no discovery without "discernment and questioning." Students are often allowed to get by based on remembering rote facts. However, in order to truly learn, one must realize the differences and similarities and identify the beauty and the evil in life as well as question everything one sees in order to truly learn.

"If you know peace, then you thrive; if you know contentment, then you are rich." Coolest. Quote. Ever.

Preparing early and comfortably means no trouble, while preparing hurriedly and carelessly, the task will be difficult.

A truly great individual will never be disdainful about completing basic, common labor tasks, no matter how high their status. It is never right to be afraid of labor or working to provide for oneself or for others.

Nothing can grow with one day of heat and ten days of cold; likewise, if you believe something for one day and doubt it for ten, one can never truly trust themself or achieve a goal or find true enlightened virtue. On must truly believe beyond the extent of doubts in order to find peace and harmony; being decisive and true to one's inner feelings is extremely important.


So yeah, I found that rather interesting. The copy I have doesn't baby-step the reader through, it only provides the little sayings, stories, and lessons, leaving the interpretation up to the reader. Many of the other texts break down one small saying into four or five pages of analysis, including other Cleary texts. I'd rather have the sayings for my own interpretation and understanding, molding their meanings in a way that can affect my life.