The Book of Equanimity

The Book of Equanimity contains 100 koans from the classic Zen text "The Book of Serenity," translated and interpreted by Zen teacher Gerry Shishin Wick. Each koan includes the original case, commentary from Chinese Zen master Hongzhi, and further exploration by Wick. The text follows a structured format, with each chapter dedicated to a single koan and its teachings. Wick provides historical context, multiple layers of interpretation, and practical applications for modern practitioners. The collection moves through fundamental Buddhist concepts including emptiness, non-duality, and the nature of reality. Notes and additional references supplement the main text. This work connects ancient Zen wisdom to contemporary spiritual practice, examining the relationship between intellectual understanding and direct experience. The koans serve as tools for awakening, challenging readers to move beyond conceptual thinking.

Readers appreciate Wick's clear explanations and contemporary interpretation of the 100 koans, making them accessible to Western practitioners. Many note that his commentary bridges cultural gaps while maintaining the depth of traditional Zen teachings. Positive reviews highlight: - Inclusion of both Chinese and Japanese perspectives - Practical applications for daily meditation - Helpful introduction to koan practice Common criticisms: - Dense academic language in some sections - Assumes prior knowledge of Buddhist concepts - Commentary can be too lengthy Ratings: Goodreads: 4.4/5 (78 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (31 ratings) One reader noted: "Wick provides historical context without getting lost in scholarly minutiae." Another mentioned: "The verses and commentaries sometimes feel repetitive." Several reviewers recommend reading this alongside other koan collections like The Blue Cliff Record for comparison and deeper understanding.

The Blue Cliff Record by Thomas Cleary and J.C. Cleary A compilation of 100 koans with commentaries that provides deep insights into Zen practice and meditation.

The Gateless Gate by Koun Yamada This collection of 48 koans serves as a fundamental text for Zen students seeking to understand the nature of mind and reality.

The Hidden Lamp by Florence Caplow and Susan Moon A collection of Buddhist koans and stories featuring women teachers and practitioners throughout Buddhist history.

Two Arrows Meeting in Mid-Air by John Daido Loori An examination of classical Zen koans that connects traditional teachings with contemporary Western practice.

The True Dharma Eye by John Daido Loori and Kazuaki Tanahashi A translation of Master Dogen's three hundred koans with commentary that bridges classical Zen teachings with modern understanding.

🔹 The Book of Equanimity (Shōyōroku) contains 100 koans, which are Zen Buddhist riddles or paradoxical stories used to provoke "great doubt" and test a student's progress in Zen practice. 🔹 Author Gerry Shishin Wick received dharma transmission from Taizan Maezumi Roshi and serves as president and spiritual teacher of Great Mountain Zen Center in Colorado. 🔹 The original Chinese text was compiled in the 12th century by Hongzhi Zhengjue, a Chan (Zen) master of the Caodong lineage, known for emphasizing "silent illumination" meditation. 🔹 Each koan in the book is presented with three distinct elements: the main case, a verse commentary, and modern commentary by Wick that helps bridge the gap between ancient Eastern wisdom and contemporary Western understanding. 🔹 The book's title "Equanimity" refers to the balanced, unshakeable state of mind that Zen practitioners aim to cultivate - remaining steady and composed regardless of life's ups and downs.