Authors

Hakuin Ekaku

Hakuin Ekaku (1686–1769) was a Japanese Zen Buddhist monk and one of the most influential figures in the Rinzai school. Reliable public details about his life are limited here, but he is strongly associated with teachings on disciplined practice, direct insight, and meditation amid daily activity.

Quotes: 1

Quotes by Hakuin Ekaku

Meditation in the midst of activity is a thousand times superior to meditation in stillness. — Hakuin Ekaku

Meditation That Lives Within Daily Action

At first glance, Hakuin Ekaku’s statement seems to overturn the usual image of meditation as silence, stillness, and withdrawal. Yet his point is sharper than simple praise of busyness: he suggests that awareness tested...

Created on: 5/7/2026