Seattle Soto Zen

Seattle Soto Zen
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Recent Dharma talks given at Seattle Soto Zen https://seattlesotozen.org Suggested donation: $5

  1. 3d ago

    The True Dragon - Fukan Zazengi (Part 13)

    This talk concludes Seattle Soto Zen’s exploration of Dogen Zenji’s Fukanzazengi, reflecting on the limits of our perception and the transformative challenge of sincere Zen practice. Through Dogen’s images of “groping for the elephant” and encountering the “true dragon,” the talk considers how we see only part of reality—and how practice can reveal uncomfortable truths about ourselves as well as expand our understanding. At the heart of the teaching is Dogen’s encouragement to devote ourselves wholeheartedly to zazen. Rather than treating meditation as a way to obtain enlightenment, zazen is presented as the expression of our already-complete Buddha nature: a chance to stop performing, judging, and striving, and simply allow life to live itself. Through sustained practice, we discover that the wisdom, compassion, and awakening we seek have been with us all along. Kanshin Allison Tait - 08/16/26 - $5 Suggested donation

  2. Aug 9

    This Pivotal Opportunity - Fukan Zazengi (Part 12)

    This Dharma talk explores Dogen’s reminder in Fukanzazengi that human life offers a rare opportunity for practice—and that we shouldn’t waste it. Through teachings on the six realms, everyday examples, and reflections on impermanence, we’re encouraged to wake up to the fleeting nature of life and keep practice close. Drawing on Thich Nhat Hanh, the talk reminds us that impermanence isn’t simply a cause for sadness: recognizing that everything changes can help us cherish the people, experiences, and moments of our lives more deeply. 08/09/26 - Kanshin Allison Tait - $5 suggested donation

  3. Aug 2

    What Is Buddha? - Shindo Steve Given

    Shindo Steve Given - August 2nd 2026 - Suggested Donation $5 - Through the koan “What is Buddha? Three pounds of flax,” this talk explores the limits of language and our tendency to become trapped in explanations, distinctions, and opinions. Drawing on Dōgen, Suzuki Roshi, and other Zen teachers, it points toward zazen as a direct encounter with Buddha nature—not something to be understood through words, but something realized in silence, practice, and the immediacy of this moment.

  4. Jul 26

    Total Engagement in Immovable Sitting - Fukan Zazengi (Part 11)

    Total Engagement in Immovable Sitting - Fukan Zazengi (Part 11) - Kanshin Allison Tait - July 26th 2026 - Suggested Donation $5 - The talk explores Dōgen’s teaching that Zen practice is not about becoming someone better or achieving a special state, but about wholeheartedly living the life we already have. Through stories of Dharma transmission, the image of a silver needle in a silver bowl, and Kōdō Sawaki’s teaching that “zazen is good for nothing,” it emphasizes that practice does not erase our individuality: a violet should bloom as a violet, and a rose as a rose. The path is simply to keep returning—to our posture, our breath, our true intention, and respectful care for everything we encounter—within the ordinary conditions of everyday life.

  5. Jul 22

    The Acrostic Jewel Mirror - Genzen Ed Cadman

    The Acrostic Jewel Mirror - Genzen Ed Cadman - Talk Date: 03/29/26 - Suggested Donation $5 - Genzen Ed Cadman reflects on the Song of the Jewel Mirror Samadhi, exploring how the teachings of “thusness” are passed intimately through Buddhas, ancestors, community, and creative expression. He shares his personal project of transforming the ancient poem into autobiographical acrostic poetry, weaving together Zen practice, family memories, and gratitude for those who have shaped his life.

  6. Jul 21

    Everydayness - Fukan Zazengi (Part 10) - Daiho Chris Middleman

    Everydayness - Fukan Zazengi (Part 10) - Daiho Chris Middleman - 07/12/26 - Suggested Donation $5 - Drawing on Dogen’s Fukanzazengi, this talk explores Zen practice as something ordinary, wholehearted, and available to everyone. It reflects on honest effort, the temptation to make spiritual practice seem special or otherworldly, and the freedom of fully inhabiting our everyday lives just as they are.

  7. Jul 21

    When You Rise - Fukan Zanzengi (Part 9)

    When You Rise - Fukan Zanzengi (Part 9) - Kanshin Allison Tait - 07/05/26 - Suggested Donation $5

  8. Jul 21

    The Dharma Gate of Repose and Bliss - Fukan Zazengi (Part 8)

    The Dharma Gate of Repose and Bliss - Fukan Zazengi (Part 8) - Kanshin Allison Tait - Suggested Donation $5

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About

Recent Dharma talks given at Seattle Soto Zen https://seattlesotozen.org Suggested donation: $5

Information

  • Creator
    Seattle Soto Zen
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Seattle Soto Zen
  • Show Website
    Seattle Soto Zen