Master Dogen (1200-1253), the founder of Soto Zen, is known as one of the most remarkable thinkers in the history of religion, particularly in Zen. His works are poetically and literarily perfected, as well as unparalleled in their insight and philosophy. They refer to the deepest levels of Zen Buddhist thought but are not easily accessible to the reader. This book fills that gap. It provides a solid introduction to Master Dogen's thinking and teachings by thoroughly explaining and elucidating the most important chapter ("Genjokoan") of his groundbreaking main work, the "Shobogenzo." The Genjokoan serves as the framework, key, essence, and culmination of Dogen's extensive oeuvre. It opens the way for us to fundamentally understand and live according to the teachings presented in the Shobogenzo.