Talk
Returning to the Robe: Shohaku Okumura on the Early History of Sōtō Zen & Nyoho-e
A scholarly talk on the early history of the Sōtō Zen robe tradition.
About the teacher
Shohaku Okumura
Shohaku Okumura is a Sōtō Zen priest whose scholarly translations and lectures on Dōgen's Shōbōgenzō are considered among the most rigorous available to English-speaking students, bridging close textual study with formal zazen practice. He founded Sanshin Zen Community in Bloomington, Indiana.
In June 2023 he handed abbotship of Sanshinji to Hoko Karnegis and stepped back from day-to-day leadership. Now in his late seventies, his Genzo-e lecture archive remains available by subscription through the Dogen Institute; his current live-retreat schedule is not confirmed.
“All we can do is to try in each moment, whatever we are doing, to practice the Buddha Way; we just keep opening the hand of thought and continuing to practice. There is no time when one can say, 'I'm finished—now I have finally reached the level of an enlightened person.' (from Shohaku Okumura, Realizing Genjokoan: The Key to Dogen's Shobogenzo)”Shohaku Okumura
Upcoming events
Meet Shohaku Okumura in person.
Talks, day programmes and retreats currently listed in the Paths Are Many calendar.
Talks & videos
Watch before you attend.
Short introductions and longer conversations, to hear this teacher in their own words.
Talk
Sitting for 10 Years, 10 More, and 10 More: Shohaku Okumura
A reflection on decades of zazen practice from a senior Sōtō Zen priest and Dōgen scholar.
Path
The wider context.
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Zazen & everyday awareness
Zen
Direct meditative practice, zazen and everyday awareness in traditions rooted in Chinese Chan and its later forms.
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