The Zen Studies Podcast

In Buddhism, we have three treasures: Buddha, teachers or our own awakened nature; Dharma, the teachings or the truth itself, and Sangha, the community of people who practice and maintain the tradition together. From the beginning of Buddhism, then, community has been considered essential – but in what sense? We may think of Sangha primarily as an impersonal institution providing access to Buddhist teachings and practice. It certainly fulfills that function, but I believe it's equally important that our Sanghas be welcoming, loving, joyful, mature communities: A place where everybody knows your name, and they're always glad you came.

In Buddhism, we have three treasures: Buddha, teachers or our own awakened nature; Dharma, the teachings or the truth itself, and Sangha, the community of people who practice and maintain the tradition together. From the beginning of Buddhism, then, community has been considered essential – but in what sense? We may think of Sangha primarily as an impersonal institution providing access to Buddhist teachings and practice. It certainly fulfills that function, but I believe it's equally important that our Sanghas be welcoming, loving, joyful, mature communities: A place where everybody knows your name, and they're always glad you came.

A brisk tour of 2,500 years of Buddhist texts tied to the Zen lineage. Listens to why there is no single canonical book and how different schools claimed authority. Maps major branches like Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana and how their scriptures differ. Explains how texts gain legitimacy and where newcomers might begin exploring these writings.

A guide to unlocking natural generosity by imagining yourself as an awakened being. Short reflections on why childhood wounds and self-doubt block giving. Practical contrasts between acting generous and healing to become generous. Concrete moments—parenting, teaching, cooking—where generosity flows when confidence returns. Visualization practices for feeling complete and offering warmth without losing wise boundaries.

A close reading of Yunmen's koan about "every day is a good day," unpacking symbolisms like the 15th-day moon. Short reflections on before/after narratives and whether enlightenment changes daily satisfaction. Discussions on the psychology of goal pleasure, genetic affective styles, and how zazen reveals ease in the present. Ends with the idea of loving each day beyond mood or achievement.

A thoughtful look at zazen framed as regenerative, defiant self-care in difficult times. Traces the history of self-care from hygiene to activism and commercialization. Explores how sitting can offer unconditional rest, resist the urge to earn peace, and serve as political and personal renewal. Encourages accepting imperfect practice as true restoration.

This a Q&A episode based on questions I've received from listeners: Does Zen have anything to say about human relationships? Can we learn anything from the cultural popularization of the term "Zen"? If we have no independent self-nature, what about our sense of enduring self? Do Buddhists practice confession like Catholics?

Delve into the evolution of Zen from original Buddhism to radical nondualism. Explore the differences in teachings and practices, such as the contrast between Theravada's structured approach and Zen's flexible, meditative methods. Discover how cultural influences like Confucianism and Taoism shaped Chan’s perspectives. From addressing the balance of sudden versus gradual awakening to the concept of innate Buddha-nature, this conversation invites a deep understanding of Zen's unique path towards immediate nirvana.

Zen Buddhism exemplifies practice based in self-power, or jiriki. Pure Land Buddhism exemplifies practice based in other-power, or tariki. These are very different entry gates, but when we examine self-power and other-power more closely, we see that the ultimate goal of practice requires both.

Listeners dive into profound discussions on what it means to 'settle as universal life' and the intricate balance between monasticism and the Bodhisattva Vow. The host explores how different Buddhist traditions can enrich practice, sharing insights from Pure Land, Rinzai, and Theravada. Discover the dynamic interplay of withdrawal and engagement in spiritual journeys, and the importance of community in Buddhist practice. With an emphasis on compassion and wisdom, this conversational journey reveals the richness of inter-traditional learning.