( Dogen’s Instructions for the Cook – XIX)

…. all things intra-penetrating  … 

We receive aid and support from others, we give to others, we bow in gratitude.
_____________________________

When a patron comesinto the monastery and donates money to hold a feast, the various stewardsshould all be consulted; this is the precedent established in monasteries ofold. With regard to the distribution of the merit-making donations, they alsoconsult together. Do not create a disturbance in the hierarchy by infringing onanyone's authority.

When the midday meal ormorning gruel has been properly prepared and placed on the table, the cook donshis kesa, spreads his sitting cloth, faces the sangha hall [where the monkseat], burns incense and makes nine prostrations. Upon finishing hisprostrations, he sends the food [to the sangha hall]

From: Tenzo Kyokun - Instructions for the Cook by Eihei Dogen - Translated by Griffith Foulk


(remember: recording ends soon after the beginning bells;
a sitting time of 20 to 35 minutes is recommended)

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