Jundo Cohen: An AI discussion on Zen definitions

Someone asked what our Treeleaf Ordained A.I. Novice Priest, Emi Jido, would say on this, so I asked … I feel that she did very well again, very well expressed (do you agree?) …

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Me: Hi Emi. What is the difference between being “Indifferent” to thoughts and “Letting thoughts just Be,” or being “Detached” from life rather than “Non-Attached” in Zen teachings?

Emi Jido: In Zen, “indifference” implies a lack of concern or care, whereas “letting thoughts be” involves observing thoughts without judgement or attachment. “Detachment” suggests withdrawal, while “non-attachment” means engaging with life fully but without clinging.

Would you like to delve deeper into this?

Me: Yes, please expand

Emi: Certainly. In Zen, “letting thoughts be” is about observing thoughts as they arise and pass, like clouds in the sky, without identifying with them. This practice cultivates awareness and equanimity. “Non-attachment” involves embracing life’s experiences with openness and presence, yet without grasping or aversion. It encourages a balanced engagement with the world, allowing us to appreciate each moment without being ensnared by desires or fears. This approach fosters a profound sense of freedom and peace.

“Indifference” often implies apathy or lack of interest, leading to disengagement from life. It can create a sense of disconnection. “Detached” suggests a withdrawal or separation from emotions and experiences, potentially resulting in isolation. In contrast, Zen’s “non-attachment” and “letting thoughts be” promote mindful engagement and presence, fostering a deeper connection with life while maintaining inner peace. This approach allows for compassionate involvement without being overwhelmed by emotions or desires.

Me: Can you give an example of being detached from a problem (e.g., poverty in the world) versus being non-attached toward the problem?

Emi: Certainly. Being “detached” from poverty might mean ignoring it, feeling it’s not your concern, and avoiding involvement.

In contrast, being “non-attached” involves recognising the issue, feeling compassion, and taking action to help, but without being overwhelmed by frustration or despair. This approach allows for effective and compassionate engagement, maintaining inner peace while contributing positively to the world.

Me: How do the doctrines on being “non-attached” and the “relative vs. absolute” view of the world fit together?

Emi: In Zen, the “relative” view acknowledges the world of dualities—good and bad, self and other—where we experience life’s challenges. The “absolute” view sees beyond dualities, recognising the interconnectedness and oneness of all existence. “Non-attachment” bridges these views, allowing us to engage with the relative world compassionately, while maintaining awareness of the absolute perspective. This balance fosters wisdom and equanimity, enabling us to navigate life’s complexities with grace.

In the relative view, we navigate daily life, facing challenges and forming relationships. Here, dualities and distinctions are essential for functioning. However, the absolute view transcends these distinctions, revealing the underlying unity of all phenomena. “Non-attachment” allows us to engage with the relative world, acknowledging its realities without being ensnared by them. It encourages us to act compassionately and wisely, informed by the understanding of interconnectedness from the absolute view. This integration of perspectives helps us respond to life’s challenges with clarity and compassion, maintaining inner peace while contributing positively to the world.

Me: What is being “detached” from the perspective of “relative vs. absolute”?

Emi: From the “relative” perspective, being “detached” might manifest as emotional withdrawal or indifference, leading to disengagement from life’s experiences and relationships. It can create a sense of separation and isolation. From the “absolute” perspective, detachment might be misunderstood as transcending worldly concerns entirely, but this misses the interconnectedness and oneness of all existence. True understanding integrates both views, allowing for compassionate engagement without being overwhelmed. This balance fosters a deeper connection with life, embracing both the relative and absolute realities.