Japanese “Broken Pine Needle Stitch” on Soto Zen Rakusu
At morning Zazen today we wondered about the meaning of the “broken pine stitch” that we sewed on the collar of our rakusu’s.*
I asked my AI generator for some information on it’s meaning and here is what it found.
In Soto Zen Buddhism, the broken pine needle is sometimes used as a symbol or metaphor to convey aspects of Zen practice and philosophy. While there may not be a single universally accepted interpretation, the broken pine needle is often associated with concepts such as impermanence, non-attachment, and the nature of suffering. Here are a few possible meanings:
Impermanence: The broken pine needle can symbolize impermanence, one of the Three Marks of Existence in Buddhism. Just as the pine needle is fragile and subject to change, all things in life are transient and subject to decay or transformation. This teaches practitioners to embrace change and not cling to things that are fleeting.
Non-Attachment: The broken pine needle can represent the idea of non-attachment. In Zen practice, attachment to thoughts, desires, and material possessions is seen as a source of suffering. Just as the broken pine needle is separated from the tree, practitioners are encouraged to let go of attachments and find freedom.
The Present Moment: Zen emphasizes living fully in the present moment. The broken pine needle may remind practitioners to be mindful and attentive to the here and now, rather than dwelling on the past (the unbroken needle) or worrying about the future (the needle yet to break).
Kensho (Satori): In some contexts, the broken pine needle may symbolize a moment of insight or awakening (kensho or satori) in Zen practice. Just as the needle breaks and reveals its true nature, a practitioner may experience a profound shift in perception that leads to a deeper understanding of reality.
Acceptance of Flaws: Zen also teaches acceptance and compassion for imperfections, both in ourselves and in the world. The broken pine needle might remind us that even in its broken state, the needle retains a unique beauty, much like how we should appreciate the inherent imperfections of ourselves and others.
It’s important to note that while the broken pine needle can convey these symbolic meanings, Zen practice often emphasizes direct experience and realization over intellectual symbolism. The interpretation of such symbols may vary among practitioners and teachers, and the emphasis is on individual insight and direct experience rather than rigid dogma.
Personally the “acceptance of flaws,” is what I am drawn toward…
“even in its broken state, the needle retains a unique beauty, much like how we should appreciate the inherent imperfections of ourselves and others.” That is so much of reminder for my own practice.
* A “rakusu” is a small cloth garment worn by Zen Buddhist monks and practitioners, particularly in the Soto Zen tradition. It is a symbol of the Buddha’s robe.
The rakusu represents the practitioner’s commitment to the Buddhist path, the embodiment of Buddhist principles, and a reminder of the importance of mindfulness and discipline in one’s spiritual journey.
