The practice of Zen mind is beginner's mind. The innocence of the first inquiry—what am I?—is needed throughout Zen practice. The mind of the beginner is empty, free of the habits of the expert, ready to accept, to doubt, and open to all the possibilities. It is the kind of mind which can see things as they are, which step by step and in a flash can realize the original nature of everything. - Shunryu Suzuki; Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind
San Francisco Zen Center has begun to offer on-site meditation, Dharma talks, programs, classes, and other events. Please see the Covid-Related Openings and Closings Updates page as well as the Calendar. For continuing online practice and programming, see the Online Zendo page for Zoom links to online meditation (zazen), Dharma talks, and ceremonies and the Online Programs page for offerings including classes and workshops and other online resources.
Information for newcomers:
Online Zendo
Sitting meditation (zazen) is available live online Monday through Friday mornings, Saturday mornings, and Monday through Friday evenings. Also available are practice sessions with SF Zen Center teachers.
Meditation (Zazen) Instruction
These recordings of zazen instruction feature a variety of teachers offering an introduction to meditation. Please see the menu link for "Practice Instruction".
Books
Recommended reading for beginners.
Temple Sounds
Audio recordings of familiar sounds heard at our temples.
Videos of Suzuki Roshi
Access to movies showing San Francisco Zen Center's founder, who died in 1971.
Recorded Study Classes
This recommended class series offers listeners an overview of the fundamentals of Buddhism and Zen.