Awakening with The Blue Cliff Record: A Dialogue with David Hinton and Rinso Ed Sattizahn, Online 8/17

Practice Center
Date / Time
August 17, 2024 / 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Event Type
Workshops and Retreats
Description

The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions.


This event celebrates David Hinton’s once-in-a-generation translation of The Blue Cliff Record, a seminal collection of Ch’an (Zen) koans from the eleventh century.

The Blue Cliff Record is not just a masterwork of classical Chinese literature but also a philosophical text and an active practice guide. David Hinton’s new translation breathes fresh life into these ancient teachings, presenting the original koans and poems without the traditional commentaries. This approach rekindles the direct experience of awakening that the text was intended to provoke.

Ed Sattizahn brings a rich history of engagement with The Blue Cliff Record, having previously taught courses that delve into the text’s wisdom and applications. His teachings emphasize the relevance of these koans in everyday life, helping us to face reality directly with an “appropriate response.”

In this dialogue, David and Ed will explore:

  • The insights and philosophical rigor of Hinton’s translation.

  • The poetry, storytelling, and characters that populate The Blue Cliff Record.

  • How these koans can illuminate our understanding and practice of Zen.

  • Practical ways to apply the wisdom of The Blue Cliff Record to meet the circumstances of our lives.

This event promises to be an engaging exploration of one of Zen Buddhism’s most treasured texts. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to Zen, this event will offer insights and practical tools for your journey.

Fee Information
  • General: $37.50
  • SFZC Member: $33.75
  • Sliding scale 1: $22.50
  • Sliding scale 2: $10

San Francisco Zen Center is committed to making Zen practice and the Dharma accessible to all who seek it by offering both a General support fund and a dedicated BIPOC support fund. Please email supportfunds@sfzc.org for more information BEFORE signing up.

Register Online

Or call 415-354-0360.

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