The Zen Studies Podcast

Last week I led a sesshin, or silent Zen retreat. Participants participated in a 24-hour schedule of zazen, chanting, silent work, formal meals, and rest. Once or twice a day, I offered a "teisho" during zazen. "Tei" means to offer or put forth, and "sho" means to recite or proclaim. Teisho are sometimes called "encouragement talks," and they are meant to help listeners connect with the Dharma in spaciousness and silence of zazen. Teisho are not about explanations or the imparting of information, and they generally not recorded. They are offered spontaneously, just for the moment, just for those listening. Although you may not be sitting zazen while you listen to this episode, I thought I would offer you a teisho as if you are.

The third Field of Zen practice is Mindfulness, which is cultivating clear awareness of what is happening, moment by moment, within you and around you. Mindfulness is absolutely fundamental to Zen practice, allowing you to practice within all the other Fields. Without awareness, you can't live your life by choice instead of by karma.

Recently, someone submitted a Dharma question for me to address: "I wonder what Buddha would say to us about the crises facing humanity, particularly the suffering of our own making?" I can't know, but I dare to put some words in the Buddha's mouth and then present follow-up questions.

In this discussion on Zazen, the focus is on practical setup, including posture and minimizing distractions. The contrast between zazen and other mindful activities highlights the profound transformation that comes from stillness. Guidance on setting intentions and cultivating an open awareness encourages a deeper connection to the practice. There’s a candid exploration of the messy nature of zazen, emphasizing that it doesn't follow a straight path. The episode concludes with insights on deepening practice without striving and integrating supporting practices for a holistic experience.

Explore the active nature of Zazen as it requires ongoing effort for a deeper connection with life. Discover the importance of letting go of self-centered grasping to fully embrace experience. Learn how maintaining a childlike wonder can enhance awareness of each moment. Domyo Burk encourages breaking free from mental maps to see reality more clearly, while also questioning the very act of sitting. Silent retreats and mindful choices help deepen this practice, leading to ease and skillful living.

Explore the profound practice of Zazen, which transcends typical meditation. Delve into how it embodies our total response to life and fosters intimacy with all experiences. Discover the essence of courage and vulnerability in embracing life’s challenges. Learn the five efforts within Zazen: cultivating tolerance, making peace, and expanding awareness. Uncover how Zazen invites unresolved feelings, opening pathways to deeper truths and compassionate actions. It's a transformative journey into being present with life as it truly is.

The Buddha famously said "admirable friendship," or what I'm calling Dharma friendship, is the entirety of the holy life. In the last episode, I discussed the value and nature of personal Dharma friendships. In this episode, I talk about what makes a good Dharma friendship and offer some practical ideas about how to find, form, and maintain such relationships.

The Buddha famously said the "admirable friendship," or what I'm calling Dharma friendship, is the entirety of the holy life. In this episode, I discuss the value and nature of personal Dharma friendships. In Part 2, I will talk about what makes a good Dharma friendship and offer some practical ideas about how to find, form, and maintain such relationships.

Explore the transformative concept of Bodhicitta, or Way-Seeking Mind, essential for initiating Zen practice. Discover how spiritual discontent can spark a deeper search for meaning beyond materialism. Learn the importance of nurturing this fragile mindset amidst societal pressures and the value of a supportive community. Delve into the journey from selfish motivations to aspiring for the greater good, while intentional cultivation and maturity of Bodhicitta are highlighted, underscoring its profound connection to enlightenment.

Discover the essence of Zen practice as an active exploration rather than mere belief. Unpack the ultimate aim of becoming a Buddha through awakening to compassion and fearlessness. Learn why spiritual practice is crucial for transcending self-centeredness and achieving true happiness. Gain insights on balancing goal-oriented and goal-less practices, and hear about the signs of someone who embodies Zen. Delve into the Ten Fields framework, nurturing the way-seeking mind, and the importance of personal experience in meditation and daily life.