Joshu meets Wittgenstein: Beyond Knowing, Into Being | Shōyōroku 57

In this episode of Awakening Streams, Sensei Michael Brunner explores the profound intersection of Zen wisdom and Western philosophy, focusing on the teachings of Zen master Joshu and philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein.Drawing from Joshu’s koan in the Shoyoroku (Case 57), “Genyo’s One Thing,” and Wittgenstein’s insights in the Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus and Philosophical Investigations, Sensei Michael examines the limits of language, the pitfalls of clinging to concepts, and the liberating power of letting go. Through stories, teachings, and even a nod to Tom Petty’s song “I Need to Know,” this episode highlights how our attachment to knowing obscures the direct experience of life.Key themes explored in this episode include:Wittgenstein’s idea that the limits of language define the limits of our world.Joshu’s razor-sharp responses, pointing beyond conceptual thinking to direct experience.Dōgen’s reminder that “a picture of a rice cake cannot nourish us.”The connection between clinging to ideas and missing the fullness of the present moment.Sensei Michael invites listeners to reflect on their own dependence on knowing and consider what it means to throw away preconceived notions and truly be the One. This episode is both a philosophical and practical guide to stepping beyond the confines of the conceptual mind and embracing life as it is.Join us for daily meditation at One River Zen:Monday to Friday: 6:30–7:15 AMWednesday: 6:00–6:45 PMSaturday: 9:00–10:00 AMVisit www.oneriverzen.org for more information on upcoming events, meditation sessions, and teachings.✨ Subscribe for more episodes exploring Zen practice, philosophy, and mindful living! ✨ 🪷 Awakening Streams: The One River Zen PodcastTeachings and reflections with Sensei Michael Brunner (Sōen) of One River Zen Center, 121 E Prospect St, Ottawa IL 61350.🌐 Learn more & join practice: https://www.oneriverzen.org🎧 Listen to more episodes: Awakening Streams Podcast🙏 Support the Sangha: https://www.oneriverzen.org/donate#SenseiMichaelBrunner #MichaelBrunnerOttawa #OneRiverZen #ZenKoan #ZenPodcast #OttawaIL #SotoZen