Undetermined Monk – Eight Bodhidharma – 八人の菩提達磨

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Bodhidharma was a Buddhist monk who lived during the 5th or 6th century. Why eight Bodhidharma? Perhaps more than one reason. Young monks who go through rigorous zazen training often fall over from exhaustion in the middle of long periods of sleep deprivation and meditation. This recalls the ancient zen phrase “七転び八起き”, which literally translates as “Fall seven times and stand up eight.” Also, Bodhidharma sat facing a wall in a cave for 9 years to prove his sincerity in the pursuit of enlightenment. Legend has it that in the seventh year he fell asleep, and in a fit of anger, cut of his eyelids. Perhaps the viewer is the 9th Bodhidharma, facing his own inward contemplation. The monk who painted this piece is too young to have any significant notoriety, but judging from the expert brushwork, we can assume that at some point his identity will be determined by his signature. It is also more than likely that he is from the Sōtō school. That being said, it is also possible that they are extolling the virtues of “The 8 Disciplines”, which are: 1 – be free from desire, 2 – be satisfied, 3 – be tranquil, 4 – be diligent, 5 – remember the teachings, 6 – meditate, 7 – practice wisdom, & 8 – avoid pointless talk.

Excellent condition. *Please click on the upper left corner of each picture to expand them.

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