ABSTRACT
Chapter 8 examines ‘discursive’ versus ‘embodied’ thinking and seeks to counter two supposedly veridical propositions: the proposition as to the ineffable nature of reality, and the proposition as to the inherent limitations of language. Dōgen’s unique epistemological approach is introduced, stressing his concepts pertaining to a joint physio-mental posture (in meditative practice) and to the “moulting” of body and mind. Seeking to bridge the gap between ‘presentation’ and ‘representation’ and the ‘sign-signified’ breach, the category of ‘expression’ is introduced. Within this category language and ‘practice’ are indivisible, welding verbal utterances with an embodied cognizance, thus creating “live words”.
