Abstract: This chapter analyzes whether the abbreviated text, Eihei Goroku, represents an effective distillation or a contrived distortion of the source materials. The two main works by Dgen are the Shbgenz, consisting mainly of informal jishu-style sermons delivered in Japanese vernacular, and the Eihei Kroku, consisting mainly of formal jd-style sermons recorded in kanbun or Sino-Japanese sermons. However, these monumental texts, which are so crucial for understanding Dgen’s life and thought, have generally been less known and less studied than abbreviated versions constructed by later editors. The primary abbreviated version of the Eihei Kroku is the Eihei Dgen Zenji Goroku (Recorded Sayings of Dgen, Founder of Eiheiji Temple), a one-volume edition that consists of sermons, lectures, kan commentaries, and lyrical verse culled from the 10 volumes of the original text. Throughout most of the history of Dgen Zen, the role of the abbreviated texts has eclipsed the much more substantive writings on which they are based.

Keywords: Dgen, Shbgenz, Eihei Koroku, Eihei Goroku, jishu, jd,