2022-11-16

Audio Files for Practice

You'll need: Zen Sutras, Chants, and Songs.

Below are links to audio files for your home sitting practice. The files provide musical opening and closing verses with which to sing along, 25 minutes of silence, and bells to signal beginning and end of Zazen. The "Morn" practice (which, of course, can be used at any time of day) also includes Dedication, a timed period for kinhin, and ends with 10 minutes of silence during which you recite Sutra Service for the week and then the Closing Verse. The "Eve" practice is more streamlined, without dedication, kinhin, or Sutra Service.

For the "Morn" Practice:
  • Before starting audio: Three bows to altar, get settled in seated posture; on your own, chant the appropriate Opening Verse from pp. 3-6 of Zen Sutras, Chants, and Songs.
  • Begin playing audio for "Morn" (click on the appropriate link below)
  • Along with the recording, sing Day-of-the-Week Opening Song (p. 38).
  • Chant along with Dedication on p. 2 of Zen Sutras, Chants, and Songs. Following Odd-Numbered Days on Mon, Wed, Fri; follow Even-Numbered Days on Sun, Tue, Thu. Bow during the words that follow, and whisper your dedications, then chant along with the Universal Dedication ("All Buddhas throughout space and time . . . ")
  • 25-minutes of Zazen. Each "Morn" audio has 25 minutes of silence. Three bells sound at the beginning of Zazen and two bells when Zazen time is up.
  • Stand for Kinhin. Clappers will signal you the beginning and end of your 5-minute kinhin.
  • After Kinhin, take your seat, and read aloud the Sutra Service for this week (as indicated in Zen Sutras, Chants, and Songs. You can leave the audio going, as each "Morn" audio has 10 minutes of silence at the end.
  • After reciting the Sutra Service, continue with the appropriate Closing Verse from pp. 39-42 of Zen Sutras, Chants, and Songs.
  • When finished with the Sutra Service and Closing Verse, begin the audio for the Day-of-the-Week Closing Song (p. 38 for Mon-Fri; p. 42 for Sun).
  • Inkin bells at the end of the Closing Song will signal you to rise, give one bow to the altar, and then a bow to the (imagined) sangha.
For the "Eve" Practice:
  • Get settled in seated posture.
  • Begin audio for "Eve" (click on the appropriate link below)
  • Along with the recording, sing Day-of-the-Week Opening Song (p. 38).
  • 25-minutes of Zazen. Each "Morn" audio has 25 minutes of silence. Three bells sound at the beginning of Zazen and two bells when Zazen time is up.
  • Sing along with the Day-of-the-Week Closing Song (p. 38 for Mon-Fri; p. 42 for Sun).
  • Inkin bells at the end of the Closing Song will signal you to rise, give one bow to the altar, and then a bow to the (imagined) sangha.

Mon MORN
Mon CLOSING SONG
Mon EVE

Tue MORN
Tue CLOSING SONG
Tue EVE

Wed MORN
Wed CLOSING SONG
Wed EVE

Thu MORN
Thu CLOSING SONG
Thu EVE

Fri MORN
Fri CLOSING SONG
Fri EVE

On Sat, meet and practice with your sangha. If you sangha meets another day of the week, use the audio for that day on Sat.
OR: on Saturdays with an odd-numbered date, repeat the Fri audios; on Saturdays with an even-numbered date, repeat the Sun audios.

Sun MORN
Sun CLOSING SONG
Sun EVE

Directory for all Audio files (including Sutra Service recordings, should you want to also use them): HERE

2022-10-15

Sitting-Group Transition

This blog site previously included news and announcements for a sitting group, "Boundless Way Zen of Westchester," led by Meredith Garmon. The members of that sitting group continue to gather to practice on Saturdays in Room 43 of Community UU Congregation (468 Rosedale Ave, White Plains, NY), led now by Seth Zuiho Segall. The group's name and affiliation have changed to Pamsula Zen of Westchester, affiliated with Rev. Daiken Nelson's Pamsula Zen Center in W. Harlem.

The website for information about the group is now:
Pamsula Zen of Westchester
See also the Meetup page: HERE.
For the website of Daiken Nelson's Pamsula Zen Center, see: pamsulazen.org.

The group continues to meet each Saturday morning, both in person and on Zoom.

(Times: US Eastern)
10:00 -- Opening, Readings, Zazen (25 mins), Kinhin (5 mins), Zazen (25 mins)
11:00 -- Sutra Service
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation
12:00 -- Closing Readings

IN PERSON
Room 43
Community UU Congregation
468 Rosedale Ave
White Plains, NY 10605

ON ZOOM
The new Zoom link is: zoom.us/j/3250329127.
Passcode remains: 468468

2022-08-09

Summer Week 8 & 9

Boundless Way Zen Westchester
Meeting: Both in person and on Zoom.

Sat Aug 13

Join the BoWZ Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:
(Times: US Eastern)
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen
11:00 -- Sutra Service
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation
12:00 -- Closing Readings

IN PERSON
Room 43
Community UU Congregation
468 Rosedale Ave
White Plains, NY 10605

ON ZOOM
https://zoom.us/j/2898507899
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899

Passcode: 468468

Sat Aug 13: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon

Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00
Zoom link: CLICK HERE

Sutra Book

Boundless Way Zen Westchester Sutra Book (revised 2022 Jul): HERE.

Home Practice

Audio files are available for your home sitting practice. Each file includes musical opening and closing verses with which to sing along, 25 minutes of silence, and bells to signal beginning and end of Zazen. The "Morn" practice (which, of course, can be used at any time of day) also includes Dedication, a timed period for kinhin, and gap for you to read the Sutra Service for the week before the closing verse. The "Eve" practice is more streamlined, without dedication, kinhin, or Sutra Service.

Before Starting Audio:
  • Three bows to altar
  • Get Settled in seated posture. On your own, chant the Opening Verse (see below for the Opening Verse for the week).
  • Turn on audio (click on the appropriate link below)
Along with the recording:
  • Sing day of the week Opening Verse (p. 38).
  • Chant along with Dedication on p. 2 (following Odd-Numbered Days on Mon, Wed, Fri; following Even-Numbered Days on Sun, Tue, Thu); bow during the words that follow, and whisper your dedications, then chant along with the Universal Dedication ("All Buddhas throughout space and time . . . ")
  • 25-minutes of Zazen. The recording will ring two bells when the time is up.
If doing the "Eve" practice, audio then goes right into Conclusion; simply stay with the audio. If doing the "Morn" practice, continue with:
  • Stand for Kinhin. Clappers will signal you the beginning and end of your 5-minute kinhin.
  • After Kinhin, take your seat, and read aloud the Sutra Service for this week. You can leave the audio going, as it has a gap of silence of about 15 minutes -- long enough for you to complete the Sutra Service.
  • After the Sutra Service, continue with Closing Verse (see below for the Closing Verse for the week).
  • When finished with the Sutras (including Closing Verse) advance the audio to the 45:00 point for the Conclusion.
Conclusion:
  • Sing along with the Day-of-the-Week Closing Verse (p. 38).
  • Inkin bells at the end of the closing verse will signal you to rise, give one bow to the altar, and then a bow to the (imagined) sangha.
Monday
MORN
EVE

Tuesday
MORN
EVE

Wednesday
MORN
EVE

Thursday
MORN
EVE

Friday
MORN
EVE

All BoWZ Westchester Audio files (including Sutra Service recordings): HERE

Summer Week 8:
Mon Aug 8 - Sun Aug 14


Reading

The Essential Dogen,
"The Awakened Way," pp. 47-49.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"What the Holy Ones Have Not Preached" (Blue Cliff Record #28)

This week (Aug 8-14), recite each day, Sutra Service 8.B. (pp. 24-25).
with Opening Verses, "6. The Five Remembrances" (p. 4) followed by the Day-of-the-Week Opening Verse (p. 38).
and Closing Verses, "6. Your True Self is the World" (p. 40), followed by the Day-of-the-Week Closing Verse (p. 38).

Summer Week 9:
Mon Aug 15 - Sun Aug 21


Reading

The Essential Dogen,
"Enlightenment," pp. 50-55.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"Knowing Is Not the Way" (Gateless Gate #34)

This week (Aug 15-21), recite each day, Sutra Service 9.B. (pp. 27-29).
with Opening Verses, "6. The Five Remembrances" (p. 4) followed by the Day-of-the-Week Opening Verse (p. 38).
and Closing Verses, "6. Your True Self is the World" (p. 40), followed by the Day-of-the-Week Closing Verse (p. 38).

2022-03-29

Spring Weeks 9 & 10

Meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.

Sat May 21

Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:
(Times: US Eastern)
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen
11:00 -- Sutra Service
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation
12:00 -- Closing Readings

IN PERSON
Room 43 at
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation
468 Rosedale Ave
White Plains, NY

ON ZOOM
https://zoom.us/j/2898507899
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899

Passcode: 468468

Sat May 21: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon

Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00
Zoom link: CLICK HERE

Spring Week 9:
Mon May 16 - Sun May 22


Reading

Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, The Way of Tenderness,
"There Are No Monsters," pp. 117-126.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"Wufeng's 'Shut Up'" (Blue Cliff Record #71)

Sutras

Opening Verse for 3rd Fourweek (Mon May 16 - Sun Jun 12): "Coming and Going," p. 4.

Sutra Service 9.A.
  • "Fukanzazengi," p. 26.
  • "Raihai Tokuzui," p. 26.
  • "Shinjin Gakudo," p. 27.
  • "Kaiin Zanmai," p. 27.
Closing Verse for 3rd Fourweek (Mon May 16 - Sun Jun 12): "The Necessity of Great Doubt," p. 39.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Spring Week 10:
Mon May 23 - Sun May 29


Reading

The Essential Dogen,
"Aspiration and Search," pp. 3-7.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"Yunyan's 'Can You?'" (Blue Cliff Record #72)

Sutras

Opening Verse for 3rd Fourweek (Mon May 16 - Sun Jun 12): "Coming and Going," p. 4.

Sutra Service 10.
  • "Heart Sutra," p. 11.
  • "Song of the Grass Roof Hermitage," p. 29.
  • "Torei's Bodhissatva's Vow," p. 29.
Closing Verse for 3rd Fourweek (Mon May 16 - Sun Jun 12): "The Necessity of Great Doubt," p. 39.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Sutra Book

For printing (double-columned pages):CLICK HERE. (Page references are to this double-column version.)

For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):CLICK HERE.

Home Practice

Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include sangha (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and sesshin (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).

Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.

Recommended:
  • Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair
  • A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside
  • An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.
There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
  • Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.
  • Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.
  • Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered dates);
  • Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)
  • Zazen (25 mins)
  • Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)
  • Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the Reading/Videos page.)
  • Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)

Additional Practice Opportunities

White Plains Zen Center:
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM
https://zoom.us/j/122286388

Hudson River Zen Center:
http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/

Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy
Mon evenings: 6 PM
https://www.awakeabiding.com/

2022-03-01

Winter Week 11 & 12

Meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.

Sat Mar 5

Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:
(Times: US Eastern)
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen
11:00 -- Sutra Service
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation
12:00 -- Closing Readings

IN PERSON (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)
Room 43 at
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation
468 Rosedale Ave
White Plains, NY

ON ZOOM
https://zoom.us/j/2898507899
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899

Passcode: 468468

Sat Mar 5: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon

Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00
Zoom link: CLICK HERE

Winter Week 11:
Feb 28 - Mar 6


Reading

Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, The Way of Tenderness,
"Tracking the Footprints of Invisible Monsters," part 2, pp. 24-33.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"Mind Is Buddha" (Gateless Gate 30)

Sutras

Opening Verse for 13th Fourweek (Mon Feb 21 - Sun Mar 20): "World of Dew and Compassion," p. 6.

Sutra Service 11.B.
  • "Prayer for Awakening," p. 31.
  • "Who Owns the Weather?" p. 31.
  • "Healing Situated in Love," p. 32.
Closing Verse for 13th Fourweek (Mon Feb 21 - Sun Mar 20): "To Change Every Moment," p. 42.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Winter Week 12:
Mar 7-13


Reading

Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, The Way of Tenderness,
"Multiplicity in Oneness," part 1, pp. 35-44.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"No Mind, No Buddha" (Gateless Gate 33)

Sutras

Opening Verse for 13th Fourweek (Mon Feb 21 - Sun Mar 20): "World of Dew and Compassion," p. 6.

Sutra Service 12.B.
  • "Suffusion with the Divine Abidings," p. 34.
  • "Secrets on Cultivating the Mind" p. 34.
Closing Verse for 13th Fourweek (Mon Feb 21 - Sun Mar 20): "To Change Every Moment," p. 42.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Sutra Book

For printing (double-columned pages):CLICK HERE. (Page references are to this double-column version.)

For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):CLICK HERE.

Home Practice

Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include sangha (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and sesshin (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).

Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.

Recommended:
  • Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair
  • A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside
  • An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.
There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
  • Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.
  • Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.
  • Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered dates);
  • Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)
  • Zazen (25 mins)
  • Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)
  • Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the Reading/Videos page.)
  • Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)

Additional Practice Opportunities

White Plains Zen Center:
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM
https://zoom.us/j/122286388

Hudson River Zen Center:
http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/

Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy
Mon evenings: 6 PM
https://www.awakeabiding.com/

2021-12-13

Fall Week 13

Meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.

Sat Dec 18

Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:
(Times: US Eastern)
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen
11:00 -- Sutra Service
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation
12:00 -- Closing Readings

IN PERSON (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)
Room 43 at
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation
468 Rosedale Ave
White Plains, NY

ON ZOOM
https://zoom.us/j/2898507899
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899

Passcode: 468468

Sat Dec 18: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon and Seth Zuiho Segall

Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00
Zoom link: CLICK HERE

Autumn Week 13:
Dec 13 - 19


Reading

Barry Magid, Ending the Pursuit of Happiness,
"The Meaning of Life," pp. 128-131.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"Bodhisattvas in the Bath" (Blue Cliff Record 78)

Sutras

Opening Verse for 10th Fourweek (Mon Nov 29 - Sun Dec 26): "Realizing the Zen Way," p. 5.

Sutra Service 13.A.
  • Heart Sutra, p. 11.
  • The Misunderstanding of Many Lifetimes, p. 35.
  • Self and Other the Same, p. 35.
  • Guidepost for the Hall of Pure Bliss, p. 36.
Closing Verse for 10th Fourweek (Mon Nov 29 - Sun Dec 26): "Awakening to Discouragement," p. 41.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Winter Week 1:
Dec 20-26

OUR SATURDAY MORNING SIT IS CANCELLED FOR DEC 25.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Sutras

Opening Verse for 10th Fourweek (Mon Nov 29 - Sun Dec 26): "Realizing the Zen Way," p. 5.

Sutra Service 1
  • Precepts, p. 6.
Closing Verse for 10th Fourweek (Mon Nov 29 - Sun Dec 26): "Awakening to Discouragement," p. 41.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Winter Week 2:
Dec 27 - Jan 2


Reading

Barry Magid, Ending the Pursuit of Happiness,
"Doing Nothing," pp. 133-136.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"Think Neither Good Nor Evil" (Gateless Gate 23)

Sutras

Opening Verse for 11th Fourweek (Mon Dec 27 - Sun Jan 23): "The Fruit of the Bodhisattva Way," p. 6.

Sutra Service 2.B.
  • Liberation from All Obstructions, p. 8.
  • Xinxinming (prose), p. 9.
Closing Verse for 11th Fourweek (Mon Dec 27 - Sun Jan 23): "On Zen," p. 41.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Sutra Book

For printing (double-columned pages):CLICK HERE. (Page references are to this double-column version.)

For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):CLICK HERE.

Chant Along with these Audio Files: CLICK HERE.

Home Practice

Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include sangha (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and sesshin (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).

Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.

Recommended:
  • Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair
  • A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside
  • An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.
There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
  • Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.
  • Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.
  • Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered dates);
  • Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)
  • Zazen (25 mins)
  • Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)
  • Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the Reading/Videos page.)
  • Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)

Additional Practice Opportunities

White Plains Zen Center:
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM
https://zoom.us/j/122286388

Hudson River Zen Center:
http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/

Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy
Mon evenings: 6 PM
https://www.awakeabiding.com/

2021-11-14

Fall Week 9 & 10

Meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.

Sat Nov 20

Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:
(Times: US Eastern)
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen
11:00 -- Sutra Service
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation
12:00 -- Closing Readings

IN PERSON (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)
Room 43 at
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation
468 Rosedale Ave
White Plains, NY

ON ZOOM
https://zoom.us/j/2898507899
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899

Passcode: 468468

Sat Nov 20: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon and Seth Zuiho Segall

Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00
Zoom link: CLICK HERE

Autumn Week 9:
Nov 15 - 21


Reading

Barry Magid, Ending the Pursuit of Happiness,
"If It Is Broke, Fix It," pp. 110-114.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"Bodhidharma Puts the Mind to Rest" (Gateless Gate 41)

Sutras

Opening Verse for 9th Fourweek (Mon Nov 1 - Sun Nov 29): "The Entire Universe," p. 5.

Sutra Service 9A
  • Fukanzazengi, p. 26.
  • Raihai Tokuzui, p. 26.
  • Shinjin Gakudo, p. 27.
  • Kaiin Zanmai, p. 27.
Closing Verse for 9th Fourweek (Mon Nov 1 - Sun Nov 29): "Compassion Unbound," p. 41.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Autumn Week 10:
Nov 22 - 28


Reading

Barry Magid, Ending the Pursuit of Happiness,
"A Mother's Kiss," pp. 115-120.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"Great Master Fu Concludes His Lecture on the Sutra" (Blue Cliff Record 67)

Sutras

Opening Verse for 9th Fourweek (Mon Nov 1 - Sun Nov 29): "The Entire Universe," p. 5.

Sutra Service 10
  • Heart Sutra, p. 11.
  • Song of the Grass Roof Hermitage, p. 29.
  • Torei's Bodhisattva's Vow, p. 29.
Closing Verse for 9th Fourweek (Mon Nov 1 - Sun Nov 29): "Compassion Unbound," p. 41.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Sutra Book

For printing (double-columned pages):CLICK HERE. (Page references are to this double-column version.)

For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):CLICK HERE.

Chant Along with these Audio Files: CLICK HERE.

Home Practice

Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include sangha (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and sesshin (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).

Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.

Recommended:
  • Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair
  • A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside
  • An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.
There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
  • Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.
  • Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.
  • Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered dates);
  • Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)
  • Zazen (25 mins)
  • Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)
  • Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the Reading/Videos page.)
  • Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)

Additional Practice Opportunities

White Plains Zen Center:
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM
https://zoom.us/j/122286388

Hudson River Zen Center:
http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/

Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy
Mon evenings: 6 PM
https://www.awakeabiding.com/

2021-10-04

Fall Week 5 & 6

Meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.

Sat Oct 23

Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:
(Times: US Eastern)
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen
11:00 -- Sutra Service
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation
12:00 -- Closing Readings

IN PERSON (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)
Room 43 at
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation
468 Rosedale Ave
White Plains, NY

ON ZOOM
https://zoom.us/j/2898507899
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899

Passcode: 468468

Sat Oct 16: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon and Seth Zuiho Segall

Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00
Zoom link: CLICK HERE

Autumn Week 5:
Mon Oct 18 - Sun Oct 24


Reading

Barry Magid, Ending the Pursuit of Happiness,
"Asses and Horses," pp. 93-97.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"Vimalakirti's 'The Gate to the One and Only'" (Blue Cliff Record 84; Book of Serenity 48)

Sutras

Opening Verse for 8th Fourweek (Mon Oct 4 - Sun Oct 31): "Menju -- Face-to-Face Transmission," p. 5.

Sutra Service
  • The Compassionate Heart of Wisdom, p. 16.
  • Harmony of Relative and Absolute, p. 17.
  • Song of Zazen, p. 17.
Closing Verse for 8th Fourweek (Mon Oct 4 - Sun Oct 31): "Hope in the Dark," p. 40.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Autumn Week 6:
Mon Oct 25 - Sun Oct 31


Reading

Barry Magid, Ending the Pursuit of Happiness,
"Thomas Merton in Love," pp. 97-102.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"The Diamond Sutra's 'The Transgression is Wiped Out'" (Blue Cliff Record 97, Book of Serenity 58)

Sutras

Opening Verse for 8th Fourweek (Mon Oct 4 - Sun Oct 31): "Menju -- Face-to-Face Transmission," p. 5.

Sutra Service
  • Eihei Koso Hotsuganmon, p. 18.
  • Mangala Sutta, p. 18.
  • Yongjia's Song of Realizing the Dao, p. 19.
Closing Verse for 8th Fourweek (Mon Oct 4 - Sun Oct 31): "Hope in the Dark," p. 40.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Sutra Book

For printing (double-columned pages):CLICK HERE. (Page references are to this double-column version.)

For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):CLICK HERE.

Chant Along with these Audio Files: CLICK HERE.

Home Practice

Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include sangha (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and sesshin (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).

Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.

Recommended:
  • Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair
  • A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside
  • An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.
There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
  • Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.
  • Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.
  • Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered dates);
  • Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)
  • Zazen (25 mins)
  • Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)
  • Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the Reading/Videos page.)
  • Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)

Additional Practice Opportunities

White Plains Zen Center:
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM
https://zoom.us/j/122286388

Hudson River Zen Center:
http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/

Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy
Mon evenings: 6 PM
https://www.awakeabiding.com/

2021-09-06

Fall Week 1 & 2

Meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.

Sep 25

Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:
(Times: US Eastern)
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen
11:00 -- Sutra Service
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation
12:00 -- Closing Readings

IN PERSON (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)
Room 43 at
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation
468 Rosedale Ave
White Plains, NY

ON ZOOM
https://zoom.us/j/2898507899
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899

Passcode: 468468

Sat Sep 25: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon and Seth Zuiho Segall

Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00
Zoom link: CLICK HERE

Autumn Week 1:
Mon Sep 20 - Sun Sep 26


Reading

Barry Magid, Ending the Pursuit of Happiness,
"Spiritual versus Material," pp. 74-81.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"A Non-Buddhist Questions Buddha"

Sutras

Dedication: Ancestor Dedication ("Dedication 2"), pp. 2-3.

Opening Verse for 7th Fourweek (Mon Sep 6 - Sun Oct 3): "Clear Mind," p. 5.

Sutra Service
  • Precepts, p. 6.
Closing Verse for 7th Fourweek (Mon Sep 6 - Sun Oct 3): "There is No End," p. 40.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Autumn Week 2:
Mon Sep 27 - Sun Oct 3


Reading

Barry Magid, Ending the Pursuit of Happiness,
"Sitting Long Becomes Tiring," pp. 81-83.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

"A Woman Comes Out of Samadhi"

Sutras

Opening Verse for 7th Fourweek (Mon Sep 6 - Sun Oct 3): "Clear Mind," p. 5.

Sutra Service
  • Liberation from All Obstructions, p. 8.
  • Xinxinming (Rhythmic), p. 8
Closing Verse for 7th Fourweek (Mon Sep 6 - Sun Oct 3): "There is No End," p. 40.

To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Upcoming

Next Online Sesshin


Fri Oct 1, 19:00 through Mon Oct 4, 12:30

Online Practice periods include Zazen (seated meditation), kinhin (walking meditation), dharma talk, dharma dialogue, and dokusan (interview with teacher).

Times of Online Practice:
Evening (19:00 - 20:30) -- Fri, Sat, Sun
Early Morning (7:00 - 8:30) -- Sat, Sun, Mon
Late Morning (10:30 - 12:30) -- Sat, Sun, Mon
Afternoon (14:30 - 16:00) -- Sat, Sun

See the flyer for this event HERE.
To register, go HERE.

Sutra Book

For printing (double-columned pages):CLICK HERE. (Page references are to this double-column version.)

For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):CLICK HERE.

Chant Along with these Audio Files: CLICK HERE.

Home Practice

Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include sangha (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and sesshin (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).

Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.

Recommended:
  • Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair
  • A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside
  • An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.
There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
  • Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.
  • Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.
  • Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered dates);
  • Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)
  • Zazen (25 mins)
  • Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)
  • Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the Reading/Videos page.)
  • Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)

Additional Practice Opportunities

White Plains Zen Center:
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM
https://zoom.us/j/122286388

Hudson River Zen Center:
http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/

Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy
Mon evenings: 6 PM
https://www.awakeabiding.com/

2021-08-21

Summer Week 10 & 11

Now meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.

Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:
(Times: US Eastern)
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen
11:00 -- Sutra Service
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation
12:00 -- Closing Readings

IN PERSON (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)
Room 43 at
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation
468 Rosedale Ave
White Plains, NY

ON ZOOM
https://zoom.us/j/2898507899
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899

Passcode: 468468

Sat Aug 28: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon

Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:
Mon-Fri, 7-8am
Tue, Thu, Sun, 7-8pm
Zoom link: CLICK HERE

For Summer Week 10:
Mon Aug 23 - Sun Aug 29

Reading

for Sat Aug 28
  • Barry Magid, Ending the Pursuit of Happiness, "Rinzai's 'Buji' Zen," pp. 62-65.
Reading Schedule HERE

Raven Tale

Sutras

Dedication
  • For odd-numbered days, begins with Gatha of Atonement, p. 2
  • For even-numbered days, begins with The Three Refuges, p. 2
Opening Verse for 6th Fourweek (Mon Aug 9 - Sun Sep 5)
  • Dedication of Merit, p. 4
Sutra Service
  • Heart Sutra, p. 11.
  • Shitou's Song of the Grass Roof Hermitage, p. 29.
  • Torei's Bodhisattva's Vow, p. 29.
Closing Verse for 6th Fourweek (Mon Aug 9 - Sun Sep 5)
  • Your True Self is the World, p. 40
  • Save All the Beings, p. 42
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

For Summer Week 11:
Mon Aug 30 - Sun Sep 5

Reading

for Sat Sep 4
  • Barry Magid, Ending the Pursuit of Happiness, "If This Was It," pp. 65-68.
Reading Schedule HERE

Koan

Sutras

Dedication
  • For odd-numbered days, begins with Gatha of Atonement, p. 2
  • For even-numbered days, begins with The Three Refuges, p. 2
Opening Verse for 7th Fourweek (Mon Sep 6 - Sun Oct 3)
  • Clear Mind, p. 5.
Sutra Service
  • Dahui's Prayer for Awakening, p. 31.
  • Who Own's the Weather? p. 31.
  • Kyodo's Healing Situated in Love, p. 32.
Closing Verse for 7th Fourweek (Mon Sep 6 - Sun Oct 3)
  • There is No End, p. 40.
  • The Four Bodhisattva Vows, p. 42
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings HERE.

Sutra Book

For printing (double-columned pages):CLICK HERE. (Page references are to this double-column version.)

For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):CLICK HERE.

Chant Along with these Audio Files: CLICK HERE.

Home Practice

Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include sangha (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and sesshin (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).

Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.

Recommended:
  • Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair
  • A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside
  • An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.
There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
  • Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.
  • Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.
  • Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered dates);
  • Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)
  • Zazen (25 mins)
  • Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)
  • Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the Reading/Videos page.)
  • Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)

Additional Practice Opportunities

White Plains Zen Center:
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM
https://zoom.us/j/122286388

Hudson River Zen Center:
http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/

Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy
Mon evenings: 6 PM
https://www.awakeabiding.com/