Buddhism 101: The Heart of Buddhist Teachings for Zen Students

Buddhism 101: The Heart of Buddhist Teachings for Zen Students

An Online Workshop and Practice Period with Melissa Myozen Blacker, Rōshi, and David Dae An Rynick, Rōshi

You are warmly invited to join Melissa Rōshi and David Rōshi in an exploration of the roots of Zen practice as taught in early Zen Buddhist texts.

These ancient teachings can support and deepen our practice of paying attention moment after moment in our daily lives and in our formal Zen practice. Using guided meditations, talks, text exploration, and group dialogue, we will consider the Zen perspective on these important basic Buddhist teachings.

Beings are numberless; I vow to free them. 

Delusions are inexhaustible; I vow to end them.

Dharma gates are boundless; I vow to enter them.

The Buddha Way is unsurpassable; I vow to embody it.

This spring we will explore the Four Bodhisattva Vows, the short text that we recite at the end of practice periods. Through our study together in Buddhism 101, we will learn about the origins of these vows, explore their deeper meanings, and discover how they can guide us to live lives as Bodhisattvas, “wisdom beings” who devote their lives to the well-being of all.

If you’ve been curious about the Temple and about Zen Buddhism, this monthly online series is a great opportunity to learn more. If you’re already part of the Temple community, it provides a space for connection and community, as well as an opportunity to learn more about our Boundless Way Zen practice. All are welcome!

More information or to register for one or more of the workshops, follow this link.

Each workshop will be held 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EDT (via private Zoom link): pre-registration required.

Suggested donation per session – $35 Temple members / $50 non-members