Obedient Objects

"Obedient Objects", number 119 of 200 from Robert Aitken's book Miniatures of a Zen Master.

From WoodenZen


The idea of the "innate perversity of inanimate objects" is so common our culture that it has its own acronym. IPIO This is the idea that objects are unknowable and have "a mind of their own".

Objects are true to their nature. This is not a mystery. They can be nothing other than what they are and can not act in ways that they don't. People, scientists, theologian, 'we the people' may not understand objects nature but that is a reflection on our ignorance not proof that inanimate object have the innate perversity.

Perversity is defined as:

  1. turning away from what is right or good : corrupt
  2. improper, incorrect
  3. contrary to the evidence
  4. obstinate in opposing what is right, reasonable, or accepted
  5. arising from or indicative of stubbornness or obstinacy

These are all our human value judgments that sadly get projected onto the natural world. Often with unfortunate consequences.

The earth will eventually heal itself of our polluting ways. A million years from now the earth will just be a planet coursing through space. It will have whatever makeup it has. It is pretty arrogant to think otherwise.


Any error or confusion created by my commentary on
Miniatures of a Zen Master
is solely a reflection of my own delusion and ignorance.
Any merit generated by this activity is solely the result of
Aitken Roshi's clear teaching and is dedicated to
all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas throughout space and time.