Obedience to Reality: Letting Go of Ego and Resistance

In this episode of Awakening Streams, Sensei Michael Brunner reflects on Case 4 of the Sanshekishu, "Obedience," featuring the timeless teachings of Master Bankei. This case tells the story of a proud Nichiren priest who challenges Bankei, only to have his resistance gently unraveled through simple instructions.

Sensei dives deep into the heart of this story, exploring:

• The nature of ego and how it binds us to repetitive patterns.
• Why true freedom lies not in control but in letting go of judgments and expectations.
• How obedience in Zen is about aligning with reality rather than submitting to authority.
• Practical insights for recognizing and releasing resistance in your daily life.

This episode invites us to see beyond our rigid ideas of self and other, good and bad, and discover the boundless essence of who we truly are.

💡 “Freedom isn’t found in control—it’s found in letting go.”

Mentioned in this episode:

• Sanshekishu, Case 4: "Obedience"
• Daily meditation at One River Zen: Mon–Fri 6:30–7:15 AM, Sat 9:00–10:00 AM
• Awakening Streams podcast available on all major platforms

Learn more, study with us, and meditate online at oneriverzen.org.