The Path of Awakening, an Introduction to Zen Buddhism

Tuesday Evenings October Oct 4-25 from 7:00- 8:30 at Zen Center of Pittsburgh

This discussion will include:

What is Zen Buddhism?

• Link 1
• section2

What is Zen Training?

What is Soto Zen?

• The Emphasis on Zazen (Shikantaza)
• The meaning and importance of forms and rituals
• Soto Zen Practice in America

Each class will include a brief period of Zen meditation with plenty of time during each class for questions and discussion.
While the class is intended for the beginner anyone is welcome to join the conversation. Registration is required. Seating is limited.

A Very Special Dharma Talk

On September 20th at 7:00 PM, Rev. Hosho Kurata from the Soto Zen headquarters in Japan will visit the Zen Center of Pittsburgh. We are honored to be one a few Sanghas selected for a visit. Rev. Karata is a “Sotoshu Specially Dispatched Teacher” of the Soto Zen organization, and he will give a Dharma talk to our community.

The theme of Rev. Karata’s talk will be: “Now, Here, the Self: What does the Buddha Dharma express?”

About his upcoming trip to America, Rev. Karata commented as follows:
“I am very happy to have received this opportunity to visit America and share this time, studying together. There is nothing more joyful for me than this. I want to strive to do my very best so that this teaching trip will be a favorable opportunity for both you and me to take one more step forward. I am very much looking forward to meeting all of you.”

The talk will be translated by Rev. Daigaku Rumme, the first westerner to be appointed Bishop of Soto Zen, a position he held for 5 years.