Holding the Lotus to the Rock: The Autobiography of Sokei-An, America's First Zen Master

by Michael Hotz

Book Overview

Sokei-an Sasaki (1882-1945), in many respects, was the original Dharma Bum: a sculptor, poet, Zen student, and journalist, whose favorite subject was America. He arrived in San Francisco in 1906 with... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 156858248X
• ISBN13: 9781568582481
• Release Date: March 2003
• Publisher: Da Capo Press
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 0.95 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 5.8" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Excellent Autobio/Philosophy of Early Pioneer of Japanese Zen in America

They say that Sokei-An established the first Zendo in America. This beautifully written book also presents a treasure trove of Zen philosophy: whether it's through legends, parables or life experiences as Sokei-An recounted them; or simply a diary of his impressions of the U.S.(especially SF and NYC) and a look at his inner thought processes on Zen. I especially like the cover photo where it looks like he's meditating with a cat in his lap! Many other photos, as well.

Craggy and Intense

...real Woody Guthrie Dharma, the zazen version of "On the Road," a salt-encrusted hatband of a book, seasoned with the dust of the vagabond highway, and as sweet as a bite into the juice of a windfall apple. THIS is the perfect backpack book for the diamond path that leads to the rainbow's end of the mind. Lock eyebrows with this guy. He's the perfect companion for your trailworn copy of "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind."