February is Dogen Month!

The writings of Dogen Zenji, founder of Soto Zen in Japan in the thirteenth century, were lost from view for over four hundred years, but have come to be appreciated far beyond Soto Zen circles. According to Dogen scholar Stephen Heine, "Dogen's poetic and philosophical works are characterized by a continual effort to express the inexpressible by perfecting imperfectable speech through the creative use of wordplay, neologism, and lyricism, as well as the recasting of traditional expressions".

Dogen’s writing can be intimidating to the ordinary reader, or Zen beginner, but this need not be so. Over these four weeks we will look at two texts,: Fukanzazengi , “General Advice on the Principles of Zazen” one of Dogen’s first writings, and Shushogi, a compilation of excerpts from Dogen’s writing made after his death for lay followers. Our aim will be to discover what Dogen teachings are essential for our lives in the 21st century.

For a PDF of Fukanzazengi click Here.

For a PDF of Shushogi click Here.

Dharma seminar sessions consist of two zazen periods, an informal talk, sometimes writing reflections (bring a notebook), small/large group talking circles. Part of our regular Wednesday evening practice schedule. Everyone welcome!  By donation.

To join on Zoom please click here. Meeting ID: Meeting ID: 813 0611 6370 Passcode: 772765

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