The Light That Shines through Infinity Zen and the Energy of Life

A Zen Buddhist perspective on the universal flow of cosmic energy and how to incorporate that energy into one's life and spiritual practice

The universe is alive with a dynamic energy that creates and sustains our lives. It surrounds us, flows through us, and is available to us in every moment. Spiritual practice, according to revered American Zen teacher Dainin Katagiri Roshi, is about aligning ourselves with this ever-present life force—sometimes referred to as chi, qi, or ki.
 
This collection, edited from Roshi’s talks, focuses on cosmic energy as it relates to all aspects of Zen practice. With references to classic texts and personal stories that bring the teachings to life, The Light That Shines through Infinity is also a powerful antidote to the notion that practice is in some way about transcending the world around us. It is in fact about nothing other than relating to it compassionately and whole-heartedly.

Dainin Katagiri Roshi (1928-1990) was born and received his Zen training in Japan, coming to the United States in 1963 to work and teach with Shunryu Suzuki at the San Francisco Zen Center. He was founder, and for many years abbot, of the Minnesota Zen Meditation Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is the author of several other books, including Returning to Silence, You Have to Say Something, and Each Moment Is the Universe.