FROM THE GARDEN OF ZEN: November 2021

November 21, 2021

A gate into autumnal tints: Jochi-ji

Being aware of the ending of late autumn, living things begin to hastily prepare for enduring the harsh winter.

Like the setting sun which shines flamingly just before sinking in the sea, the declined leaves of trees are turning into the blazing colors of fire, waiting for the time to flutter down in the chilly wind.

The subtle and exquisite chemistry of nature causes the dazzling flood of autumnal tints, which makes me find the wonders of life appearing stealthily in the passage of the seasons.

Sunset seascape in autumn: Zaimokuza-beach

The glaring sun is gradually sinking beyond Izu Peninsula, while emitting tender golden light into the blue dusk of the evening sky.

Thanks to the chilly and dry air, the gray silhouettes of Mt. Fuji and Enoshima Island can be clearly seen in the distance behind Inamuragasaki Cape.

The dazzling glare of the setting sun is creating a brilliant band of golden light on the dull blue surface of the gently undulating sea as if to show me the eternal path to the Land of Bliss in the West.

Autumn leaves: Engaku-ji

Before the best time of autumn leaves, the brilliant mosaic created by the countless colored leaves is adorning the modest gate of the Kojirin which is the small hall for the meditation of Buddhist laypersons.

The mixture of leaves that are still green and those that have turned red and yellow creates the fine texture of bright colors, which reminds me of a Nishijin-ori silk fabric woven with gold threads and various beautiful colors and patterns.

Soon, as the air temperature falls rapidly, the colors of these leaves will turn even brighter to bring about the peak of splendid autumnal colors.