This week, Roshi continued our exploration of Dogen’s Zuimonki. He reminded us that, unlike the more formal Shobogenzo, the Zuimonki consists largely of informal talks and conversations recorded by Dogen’s disciple, Ejo. Interestingly, Ejo first met Dogen as a fellow monk before eventually becoming his student and successor. This week we began Book Four,…

This week, Roshi briefly reflected on the recent passing of the renowned Buddhist scholar Robert Thurman. Roshi first met Thurman approximately forty years ago at the First American Buddhist Conference. Although their paths crossed only occasionally over the decades that followed, Roshi held him in great respect and appreciation. Reflecting on Thurman’s life, Roshi…

This week, Roshi continued our exploration of Dogen’s Zuimonki. He reminded us that this text is much less formal than the Shobogenzo. Much of the Zuimonki was recorded by Ejo, who began as a colleague of Dogen and later became his student. Our discussion focused on the beginning of Book 3, where an accomplished…

This week, the sangha celebrated Roshi’s birthday by singing “Happy Birthday” and presenting him with a card, sweets, and several small gifts. Roshi graciously acknowledged these expressions of appreciation and reflected on their deeper meaning. He reminded us that while we may direct our gratitude toward him, he is simply a vessel for truths…