Why Robai Shin - “grandmother mind” - is the best practice you’ve never heard of

In Buddhism, a concept known as Robai-shin, or grandmother mind, was first taught by Japanese Zen Master Dogen, the founder of the Soto Zen school. It represents overwhelming kindness, compassion, and empathy.

In the thirteenth century, Dogen had a young student named Tetsu, who had everything required to be a monk. But Dogen noticed that he was short on compassion.

Before Dogen died, he told Tetsu, “You can understand all of Buddhism, but you cannot go beyond your abilities and your intelligence unless you have Robai-shin, the mind of great compassion.”

Dogen’s phrase ‘Robai-shin’ has been mostly translated as ‘grandmother mind.’ It means a parental mind which includes the quality of compassionate understanding, withgrandmotherly sternness when required.

A grandmother mind will help you go beyond your abilities and intelligence. It will create positive bonds around you. The happiest people are those who are compassionate and have good relationships.

You don’t need to be a grandmother to develop a grandmother mind. Anyone can whether in the role of friend, parent, or partner. It will improve your relationships and understanding of others.

At work: Empathy and compassion can create an environment for positive communication. Colleagues in such a workspace are more open to expressing their concerns and to socialize at work. It also improves productivity and reduces stress.

At home: Having a compassionate household gives reassurance that someone loves and cares about you. Compassion at home inspires one to be kind outside. It can improve problem-solving in couples and lead to good health.

Grandmother mind requires practice, intention and awareness. Don’t judge yourself if you fail, keep trying to be compassionate and kind. Others will sense your efforts and reciprocate. That will inspire you to continue Robai-shin behaviour.

Final note: What happened to Dogen’s student Tetsu? He became the Abbot at Dogen’s temple and gained a lot of honour - because he developed grandmother mind.