Blue Mountain Zendo
June 7 2012 7:00 pm – June 10 2012 2:00 pm
Literally “to collect the mind”, Sesshin is the Buddhist seclusion or retreat, consisting of five days of intensive Zazen (meditation) practice, a dharma talk once a day and a private interview with Rev. Joriki Dat Baker twice daily. During sesshin, the student concentrates on nothing but collecting the scattered shards of the mind so that they can realize their original unity with the universe from which they ordinarily feel separated. For centuries philosophy and religion have tried to evoke this unified mind but, with with transitory results. Zen will illuminate the way, it will uncover the inner strength necessary to restore the threads which weave our rightful place in this world.
Sesshin is the core of all Zen Buddhist Practice. While other traditions tend to be distracted by the playful words left by the Buddha of the past, Zen concerns itself with the engagement, validity and application of such wisdom. In other words, some traditions study the path while others walk the path; there must be a balance between the two. Sesshin is offered for those who have realized that mere scholarly pursuits fail to illuminate the true path of liberation. Sesshin is a time for brave women and men to realize the truth of life and death. Sesshin includes lodging, meditation instruction, koan practice, samu practice, chanting practice, vegetarian meals, daily walking meditations next to the river and daily private interviews with Joriki Dat Baker.
Summer Sesshin starts Thursday at 7:00 pm and ends on Sunday at 2:00 pm. The cost is $275. For more information please contact the Jisha on the Contact Us page.