Dōgen (1200–1253), a pivotal Japanese Zen master and the founder of the Sōtō school, articulated profound philosophical insights through his writings, especially in the Shōbōgenzō. Among his teachings, “One Bright Pearl” (Ikka Myōju) stands out as a poetic and transformative metaphor encapsulating his vision of the unity of existence, interdependence, and enlightenment. This Zen concept can be intriguingly juxtaposed with the Neo-Confucian idea of li (principle or pattern), which emerged during the Song dynasty in China as a framework for understanding cosmic and ethical order.

Though arising in different philosophical traditions, Dōgen’s One Bright Pearl and the Neo-Confucian concept of li share similarities in addressing the relationship between the universal and the particular, as well as insights into self-cultivation. A deeper comparison sheds light on their unique contributions to East Asian thought.

Dōgen’s “One Bright Pearl”

The phrase “One Bright Pearl” comes from a Zen kōan attributed to Chinese Chan master Gensha Shibi. When asked about the nature of the enlightened mind, Gensha responded: “The entire universe is one bright pearl.” This metaphor resonated with Dōgen, who interpreted and expanded upon it in his essay Ikka Myōju within the Shōbōgenzō.

For Dōgen, the “One Bright Pearl” represents the entirety of existence experienced as a seamless, luminous whole. It signifies the nondual nature of reality, where distinctions between self and other, subject and object, are transcended. Every phenomenon in the universe is an expression of this singular pearl, yet the pearl itself does not exist as a separate, tangible object.

This metaphor challenges dualistic thinking and calls practitioners to see that enlightenment is not something external to attain but is inherent in the ordinary and the present moment. The pearl, therefore, encapsulates both the unity and diversity of existence.

Dōgen’s teaching emphasizes zazen (seated meditation) as the practice through which one realizes the “One Bright Pearl.” This realization is not a passive intellectual exercise but a lived experience of the interconnectedness and impermanence of all things. By embodying this understanding, practitioners dissolve illusions of separateness and live harmoniously with the world.

Key Features

• Interpenetration: Every phenomenon reflects the whole; the part and the whole are inseparable.
• Impermanence: The pearl’s radiance is not static; it shines in the flux of time and space.
• Nondualism: The distinction between enlightenment and ordinary life collapses; they are one and the same.

Neo-Confucian Concept of Li (Pattern)

Neo-Confucianism arose in response to the perceived shortcomings of earlier Confucianism and the influence of Buddhism and Daoism during the Song dynasty (960–1279). Thinkers like Zhu Xi (1130–1200) and Cheng Yi (1033–1107) elaborated the concept of li, grounding it in metaphysical, ethical, and cosmological terms.

Li refers to the underlying principle or pattern inherent in all things. It is the organizing framework that gives form and coherence to the material world (qi). Every entity possesses its own li, but all are expressions of the ultimate, universal li—the Principle of Heaven (Tianli).

In Neo-Confucian thought, li is both immanent and transcendent. It governs natural phenomena and moral order, making it the foundation for ethical living and societal harmony. To grasp li is to align oneself with the cosmos and cultivate virtue.

Realizing li involves introspection, self-cultivation, and moral effort. Zhu Xi emphasized study and meditation as tools for apprehending li and actualizing it in daily life. Ethical practice, such as filial piety and sincerity, is seen as a manifestation of the cosmic order.

Key Features

• Unity in Diversity: While each thing has its unique li, all share a connection to the universal li.
• Ethical Focus: Understanding li is inseparable from moral development.
• Interdependence of Li and Qi: Li provides the blueprint, while qi constitutes the material expression.

Comparative Analysis: Dōgen’s “One Bright Pearl” and Neo-Confucian Li

Similarities

Both teachings reject fragmented views of the world. Dōgen’s pearl reflects the seamless unity of existence, while li represents the coherent order underlying all things.

Dōgen emphasizes the mutual interdependence of all phenomena, akin to Neo-Confucian li’s role in connecting individual patterns to the universal.

The “One Bright Pearl” exists within and as the ordinary world, just as li is present in every particular yet points to the ultimate.

Differences

Dōgen’s Zen perspective is rooted in nondualism, where distinctions collapse. Neo-Confucian li retains a more structured duality between li (principle) and qi (material).

While Dōgen’s teaching focuses on awakening to the nondual nature of existence, Neo-Confucianism ties understanding li directly to moral cultivation and social harmony.

Dōgen prioritizes zazen as the path to enlightenment, whereas Neo-Confucians emphasize study, meditation, and ethical practice.

Integration and Modern Relevance

Philosophical Convergence

The interplay of Dōgen’s “One Bright Pearl” and li suggests a shared appreciation for the interconnectedness of life and the inseparability of individual and universal realities. While their frameworks differ, both inspire contemplative practice and ethical engagement with the world.

Application in Contemporary Thought

In an era marked by ecological and social challenges, these teachings offer profound insights:

The interconnectedness espoused by both traditions can deepen respect for nature and foster sustainable living.

The emphasis on self-cultivation aligns with modern pursuits of mindfulness and authenticity.

Engaging with these ideas bridges Zen and Confucian philosophies, enriching cross-cultural dialogues.

Questions and answers

What is the concept of Oneness in philosophical traditions?

The concept of Oneness is a central theme across global philosophical traditions, symbolizing the foundation of existence. It appears in Zeno of Elea’s paradoxes and Wonhyo’s treatises and is reflected in the teachings of Buddha and Jesus, emphasizing a unified vision of life.

How do Buddha and Jesus express the concept of Oneness?

Buddha’s Eightfold Path transcends labels and distinctions, guiding followers toward enlightenment through right behavior. Jesus, in his Sermon on the Mount, urges people to prioritize God above all else, aligning their lives with a unified, higher purpose.

Why is the notion of Oneness controversial?

Oneness has been both embraced and contested by philosophical schools. While some emphasize simplicity and unity, others, like Neo-Confucianism, focus on multiplicity and the importance of recognizing detailed patterns.

How does Dōgen’s philosophy contrast with Neo-Confucianism?

Dōgen’s Zen philosophy emphasizes simplicity and the inherent unity of the universe, symbolized by the “one bright pearl.” In contrast, Neo-Confucianism, particularly as articulated by Han Yu, highlights recognizing and adhering to universal patterns (li) for ethical living.

What does Dōgen’s “one bright pearl” represent?

The “one bright pearl” symbolizes the wholeness and unity of existence. It suggests that all phenomena are part of a singular reality, dissolving distinctions between observer and observed, participant and participation.

Why does Dōgen reject labels and distinctions?

Dōgen believes that naming or categorizing existence limits its boundless nature. Labels create artificial divisions, distorting the truth and hindering one’s ability to perceive the fluid, interconnected reality of the universe.

What is the significance of the Zen story of Li Ao and Yueh-Shan in Dōgen’s teachings?

In this story, Yueh-Shan responds to Li Ao’s question about his name with “Right Now,” illustrating the impermanence and fluidity of identity. This aligns with Dōgen’s view of existence as an ever-changing process without fixed labels.

How does Neo-Confucianism view patterns (li)?

Neo-Confucianism posits that humanity is inherently good and that recognizing universal patterns (li) guides moral behavior and connects individuals to the cosmic order. However, this perspective introduces a dualistic view of “I” and “Other.”

How does Dōgen’s view of Oneness address duality?

Dōgen rejects duality, asserting there is no separation between self and other. He argues that recognizing artificial patterns obscures the truth, while embracing Oneness fosters interconnectedness and clarity.

What does Dōgen advocate for true liberation?

Dōgen suggests that liberation comes from transcending labels and distinctions, embracing the unity of the One. This approach fosters simplicity, clarity, and harmony with the true nature of existence.

What is the core difference between Dōgen’s philosophy and Neo-Confucianism?

While Neo-Confucianism emphasizes ethical living through recognizing and acting upon patterns, Dōgen focuses on dissolving distinctions and living in alignment with the inherent unity of existence.

How does Dōgen’s vision encourage better behavior and understanding?

By recognizing the interconnectedness of all life, Dōgen’s philosophy fosters a sense of collective responsibility. This understanding encourages behavior that prioritizes the well-being of others over self-centered goals.

What is the ultimate message of Dōgen’s philosophy on Oneness?

Dōgen’s teachings advocate simplicity and clarity by recognizing the unity of existence. This vision liberates individuals from illusions of separation and encourages harmony with the true reality of life.