Pronunciation: [dˈə͡ʊd͡ʒən zˈɛnd͡ʒi] (IPA) 
The spelling of the name "Dogen Zenji" can be a bit confusing at first glance. The name is actually a combination of two words: "Dogen" and "Zenji." "Dogen" is pronounced as [doʊɡən] in IPA and "Zenji" is pronounced as [zɛndʒi]. The term "Zenji" is an honorific title that is added to the end of a Zen teacher's name. "Dogen Zenji" is a famous Japanese Zen master and founder of the Sōtō school of Zen in Japan.
Dogen Zenji, born in 1200 and passed away in 1253, was a renowned Zen Buddhist monk and teacher of the Soto school of Zen Buddhism in Japan. He is often referred to as Zen Master Dogen or Dogen Zenji, with "Zenji" being an honorific title used to show respect and reverence. Dogen is widely recognized as a significant figure in the history of Zen Buddhism and is considered one of the most influential Zen masters in Japan.
Dogen Zenji's teachings emphasized the practice of zazen, a sitting meditation that focuses on intense concentration and self-observation to achieve spiritual awareness and enlightenment. He believed in the concept of "shikan taza," which means "just sitting," where one should sit in stillness and observe the mind without any particular goal or judgment.
In addition to his emphasis on meditation, Dogen Zenji also emphasized the importance of ethical conduct and living life with mindfulness. He believed that enlightenment could be experienced in every moment of daily life through the practice of aware and compassionate action.
Dogen Zenji's teachings were compiled into the famous work called "Shobogenzo," which means "Treasury of the Eye of the True Dharma." This collection of essays and teachings explores various aspects of Zen practice, philosophy, and realization.
As an influential Zen master, Dogen Zenji's teachings continue to inspire and guide practitioners of Zen Buddhism around the world, with his emphasis on present-moment awareness and the integration of meditation into everyday life.
The term "Dogen Zenji" is a combination of two elements: "Dogen" and "Zenji".
- "Dogen" refers to the personal name of the renowned Japanese Zen master and philosopher, Eihei Dogen. He was born in Japan in 1200 and founded the Soto school of Zen Buddhism. Dogen was a highly influential figure in Japanese Zen history and is recognized for his writings and teachings on Zen practice.
- "Zenji" is a title that is often appended to the names of Zen masters, especially in the Soto Zen tradition. It can be translated as "Zen master" or "Zen teacher". The term "Zenji" is used to denote respect and recognition of the individual's deep understanding and mastery of Zen Buddhism.
