Dogen in Daily Life, Online 4/3 - 5/1

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.

Five Wednesdays, 6 – 7:30 pm PT

Do you feel pressured by time, anxious about environmental issues, or doubt the authenticity of your practice? Are you seeking practical guidance? Join our exploration and discover how Dogen's teachings can bring insight into these important questions of daily life.

Eihei Dogen (1200-1253), among the first to transmit Zen Buddhism from China to Japan and founder of the Soto School, was not only a profoundly influential and provocative Zen philosopher but also one of the most stimulating figures in Japanese letters.

Dogen in Daily Life is tailored for those intrigued by the teachings of Dogen, but who may find his work somewhat mystifying or intimidating. Perfect for newcomers and those seeking a deeper understanding of his influence on daily practice, the course takes a non-scholarly approach, and is led by two devoted students and practitioners of Dogen. They aim to demystify his teachings by exploring key writings from Dogen’s extensive collection, particularly the Shobogenzo (The Treasury of the True Dharma Eye). Through examining various excerpts and fascicles, they will share personal insights on how Dogen's teachings illuminate their own practices and everyday lives, offering practical wisdom for contemporary settings.

The instructors bring unique perspectives and experiences to the class. Ryotan Cynthia Kear, a Soto Zen Priest in the lineage of Suzuki Roshi, ordained in 2008, is the Guiding Teacher for the Great Spirit Sangha and Women of the Way Sangha. Her teaching focuses on integrating Zen principles into everyday life, emphasizing skillfulness, vow, freedom, and joy. Rev. Diane Shoshin Fitzgerald, ordained as a Soto Zen priest in 2013, leads the Zen DownEast, Maine sangha. With over 30 years of Zen practice and her experience as a Maine lawyer, Diane offers a rich understanding of Dogen's teachings, making them accessible and relevant for modern practitioners. Together, Kear and Fitzgerald provide an enriching journey through Dogen's teachings, suitable for anyone curious about Soto Zen's founder.

We will study fascicles such as Zazen-Gi, Instructions for the Tenzo, Mountains and Waters, Bodhisattva’s Four Methods of Guidance, and Time-Being, all from the collection Moon in a Dew Drop: Writings of Zen Master Dogen. While owning the book is not mandatory, as we will provide necessary materials, it's a valuable resource for those interested in a deeper dive.