The Merit of the Kasaya
Kesa represents the Sanskrit word kasaya, or Buddhist robe, and kudoku means “virtue” or “merit.” So kesa kudoku means the merit of the kasaya. Being a realistic religion, Buddhism reveres our real life. In other words, Buddhism esteems our real conduct in daily life; wearing clothes and eating meals are very important parts of Buddhist life. In particular, the kasaya and patra, or Buddhist bowl, are the main symbols of Buddhist life. In this chapter Master Dogen explains and praises the merit of the kasaya.