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I have become discouraged as I hear so many criticisms of the SotoShu from Rinzai people. My original aspiration in entering Zen was to strive for Kensho then when I could only find a soto zen center near my home I began practicing there but I was always unsure about the Soto teaching of sitting without any gaining idea and how this could be compatible with the importance of awakening in Zen. I feel drawn to the Rinzai way but everyone in American Soto always say that distinctions between the two schools are only superficial that the awakening in Rinzai or Soto is equal. Yet everywhere I hear Soto people say there is nothing to strive for just sit shikantaza and don't strive for anything. Which way is best? Please resolve this doubt for me.
January 14, 2021, 1:06 am