Kaigen

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Kaigen (Jap., ‘opening the eye’). A general Zen expression for the awakening of a true insight into the nature of reality; thus the insight of a master (roshi) is often referred to as his dharma eye. More particularly, it is the ceremony whereby a representation of a buddha or bodhisattva (in sculpture or painting) is consecrated and brought to life, by giving it eyes. It thereby gives expression to the buddha-nature (bussho) within it.

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