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Dogen's Genjo Koan: Actualizing the Fundamental Point


  • Mountain Rain Zen Community 2016 Wall Street Vancouver, B.C. Canada (map)
To study the buddha way is to study the self. To study the self is to forget the self. To forget the self is to be actualized by myriad things.
— Dogen Zenji

February is Dogen Month!

These lines, perhaps the most quoted of Dogen , the founder of Soto Zen in Japan, come from a text called Genjo Koan, Actualizing the Fundamental Point. This text is one of Dogen’s most foundational teachings and expresses the essence of Soto Zen practice. We can return to it over and over to deepen our understanding. We can apply Dogen’s teachings to our zazen practice and our everyday lives.

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.

For a PDF of the text click here.