Words for the Heart
The Heart Sutra is chanted at almost every Buddhist occasion. Most serious practitioners have it memorized from reciting it so often. Some may even think they understand it because they know it word for word. Hakuin saw the error of such a view, so he wrote some notes in the margins to […]

Shinji Shobogenzo
Dogen studied Buddhism as a kid, but he did not hold the “True Dharma-Eye Treasury” until he returned from China. Dogen is synonymous with Zen teaching in Japan and even America today, but he stands on some mighty shoulders. His collection of 301 Zen stories, or koans, collected from several chinese anthologies provided inspiration […]

The Essential Teachings of Zen Master Hakuin
In a Zen monastery, a designated week of intensive practice (Sesshin) can be unswervingly intimidating. The monks dread the long disciplined hours sitting and the seemingly relentless interviews with the Zen Master. Knowing the sorry state of affairs of the Buddhist practice in the surrounding temples, Hakuin decided to […]

Buddhist guides from Buddha’s time and today

The disciples of Buddha were more that his flock. They became the shepherds that have preserved the teaching and genuine insight until today. This is part one of the discipleship series.