The SFZC Audio Archive

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Title Speaker Date

Embodied Enlightenment in Everyday Life

Serial: SF-06998 The talk explores Dogen's discourse on Buddha nature, emphasizing the idea that Buddha nature itself creates conditions conducive to its realization and expression. The practice of Soto Zen, as discussed, focuses on Genjo—the...
Tassajara Zen Mountain Center, Letting Go, Peace, Rinzai, zen meditation
Jul 1990

Presence Over Pursuit

Serial: EB-00076 This talk discusses the distinction between task involvement and ego involvement, emphasizing the idea that being present in the moment can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life, as opposed to being driven by the pursuit of...
Passions, Ego, Lineage, Impermanence, Interview
Jul 01 1990

Finding Joy in Zazen Practice

Serial: EB-00074 The talk centers on exploring the practice of Zazen, emphasizing its joyful aspect as expressed in Dogen's teachings. It delves into the concept of Ji-Ji-Yu Samadhi, described as self-enjoyed Samadhi, and the importance of...
Ordinary Mind, Heart Sutra, Concentration, Samadhi, Sutra
Jun 04 1990

Zen's Dance of Teacher and Student

Serial: EB-00072 The talk explores the interconnected roles of teacher and student within Zen practice, emphasizing that both roles are crucial for each other's existence. The discourse touches upon personal anecdotes and dialogues with various...
Way-Seeking Mind, realization, Thich Nhat Hanh, Avalokiteshvara
Apr 19 1990

Embracing the Now in Zen

Serial: EB-00071 The talk explores the theme of expectation and contentment in Zen practice, emphasizing the notion of non-attachment to outcomes. Drawing on various anecdotes, including the story of an encounter between the Buddha and a...
Religion, zen meditation, Demons, Liberation, Lovingkindness
Jan 27 1990

Taking Refuge

Serial: SF-00062 The talk centers on the practice of taking refuge in the Buddhist triple treasures—Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha—emphasizing its role as a foundational entry point into the Zen tradition. The speaker underscores that taking refuge...
Sangha, Three Treasures, Complete Perfect Enlightenment, Precepts, Transmission, Lineage,...
Jan 10 1990

Awakening Through Zens Living Lessons

Serial: EB-00075 The talk explores the dynamic and interdependent relationship between teacher and student in the context of Zen practice. It emphasizes the teacher's role in awakening the "way-seeking mind" in students, encouraging self-...
Way-Seeking Mind, realization, Thich Nhat Hanh, Religion
1990

Dzogchen Teachings

Serial: SF-00111 The talk centers on the Dzogchen teachings and the importance of altruism and compassion, emphasizing the development of pure motivation in both teaching and learning. It delves into the non-conceptual essence of the original...
Transmission, Four Noble Truths, Doubt, Peace, Don't Know Mind, Daily Life, Gratitude,...
Oct 08 1989
1
San Jose

Dzogchen Teachings

Serial: SF-00112 The talk elaborates on the complexities of Dzogchen teachings, emphasizing the relationships between consciousness, suffering, and the mind. It discusses the nuanced views among different Buddhist schools on the nature of the...
Happiness, Delusion, Four Noble Truths, Transmission, Dependent Origination, Karma, Aspects of...
Oct 08 1989
2
San Jose

Dzogchen Teachings

Serial: SF-00109 The talk discusses Dzogchen teachings and explores the concepts of consciousness, free will, compassion, and enlightenment within the context of Tibetan Buddhism. It examines the integration of method and wisdom in both Sutra and...
Emptiness, realization, Transmission, Lineage, Mandala, training, Religion, Cultivation,...
Oct 08 1989
4
San Jose

Transformation of Consciousness

Serial: SF-00113 Forum Dialogue This dialogue addresses the dire state of the world, highlighting ecological, social, and spiritual crises. It emphasizes the need to balance modern technological capabilities with ancient wisdom traditions, specifically Tibetan...
Attachment, Peace, Enemies, Balance, New Year, Happiness, resistance, Freedom, Doubt,...
Oct 1989
1

Journeying Through Spiritual Awakening Paths

Serial: EB-00070 The talk primarily addresses the transitioning life phases of an individual with deep spiritual connections and strong healing abilities. This person is encouraged to pursue non-conventional learning paths in healing arts, such...
Thich Nhat Hanh, Desire, Money, Karma, Ego
Aug 28 1989

Transcending Duality: Inner Zen Journey

Serial: EB-00069 The talk explores the Zen concept "Mind itself is Buddha," emphasizing the need to transcend the duality of the world of differences and sameness. It discusses the paradox of seeking spiritual practice and its inherent challenges...
Thich Nhat Hanh, Letting Go, Buddha Mind, Baso, Faith
Aug 27 1989

Obstacles as Pathways to Enlightenment

Serial: SF-00082 The talk discusses the nature of obstacles and their role in spiritual practice, emphasizing that obstacles are not enemies but opportunities for growth and understanding. It explores the concept of perception and one's...
Obstacles, Anger, Doubt, Enemies, Dana, Emotions, Observe, Bell, Vow, Instruction...
Jul 23 1989

Sunday Lecture

Serial: SF-00959 The talk explores the profound experience and significance of zazen (sitting meditation) as both a communal and individual practice. It emphasizes embracing the "ache in the heart," connecting personal experience to broader...
Mill Valley, Blue Cliff Record, Zazen, Buddha Nature, Liberation, Harmonizing, Zendo, Suzuki...
Jul 09 1989
Green Gulch

Embodying Enlightenment Through Daily Awareness

Serial: SF-00054 The talk explores "The Eight Great Awarenesses of an Enlightened Being," focusing on Buddha's last teaching before entering parinirvana. Emphasis is placed on integrating these practices into daily life, and how they represent...
Renunciation, Zazen Mind, Zazen, Buddha Nature, Concentration, Suzuki Roshi, Ceremony,...
May 18 1989
Tassajara

Science and Spirit: A Unified Journey

Serial: SF-00049 Sunday lecture The talk explores the relationship between spiritual teachings and scientific thought, focusing on the personal journey from entertaining to delving into deeper Dharma. This involves a reflection on the significance of scientific...
Suzuki Roshi, Religion, Emptiness, Observe, Heart Sutra, Liberation, Vow, Zendo, Hindrances,...
May 07 1989
Green Gulch Farm

Transcending Hindrances Through Compassion

Serial: SF-00149 The talk explores concepts from the Heart Sutra, emphasizing the notion that the mind can transcend hindrances, resulting in the absence of fear. It delves into the "thought coverings" or "avarana" outlined in Buddhist philosophy...
Subject-and-Object, Hindrances, Emptiness, Hate, Nirvana, Gratitude, Offering, Delusion,...
May 06 1989

Present Moment, Profound Connection

Serial: EB-00001 The talk discusses the significance of direct engagement with the present moment and the phenomena around us, emphasizing how meditation helps in relating directly to experiences rather than avoiding them through attachment,...
Attachment, Delusion, Death, Posture, Culture
Apr 22 1989

Resolve and Sincerity on the Path

Serial: EB-00067 This talk critically examines the journey to enlightenment undertaken by Buddha, emphasizing the pivotal role of resolve and sincerity, depicted as key characteristics of both Buddha and the influential historical figure, Suzuki...
Separation, Commitment, Sutra, Enthusiasm, Desire
Mar 19 1989

Kindness: The Heart of Buddhist Practice

Serial: EB-00066 The talk explores the theme of kindness and its pivotal role in Buddhist practice, contrasting it with the often-emphasized pursuit of enlightenment or realization. The discussion underscores the significance of practicing...
Observe, Emotions, Equanimity, Offering, Peace
Dec 18 1988

Embrace Simplicity, Find Presence

Serial: EB-00065 The talk centers around embracing simplicity and presence in everyday experiences, drawing on a story about the Zen teacher Ikkyu and contrasting approaches to life and practice. It emphasizes the futility of seeking profound...
Culture, Religion, Conversation, Tozan, Composure
Sep 25 1988

Sunday Lecture

Serial: SF-00958 The talk focuses on the theme of addressing suffering and avoidance through Zen practices, exploring gratitude within families, and considering the historical and evolving role of women in Buddhism. It uses the story of Tungshan...
Demons, Karma, Mindfulness, Suzuki Roshi, Mill Valley, Buddha Mind, Bodhisattva Vow, Zendo,...
Aug 14 1988
SFZC

Mindful Liberation Through Not Knowing

Serial: EB-00064 This talk explores the concept of mindfulness as independent from external objects, touching on the themes of kindness, generosity, patience, and the liberation of experiencing the world without preconceived notions. Through...
Hate, Thich Nhat Hanh, Letting Go, Enemies, Bowing
Aug 04 1988

Breathing Compassion into Suffering

Serial: SF-00083 The talk discusses the practice of Tonglen, a meditation technique originating from Tibetan Buddhism, which involves breathing in the pain of oneself and others and breathing out relief and openness. The central theme is the...
Practice Period, confusion, Obstacles, Emotions, Letting Go, Passions, Instruction, Anger,...
Aug 03 1988

Mindful Generosity Through Everyday Joy

Serial: EB-00063 The talk explores the theme of cultivating a nourishing and mindful presence through Zen practice, emphasizing concentration and absorption. The discourse postulates that absorption is not object-dependent but can be cultivated...
Avalokiteshvara, Ceremony, Concentration, Zendo, Offering
Aug 03 1988

Mindfulness and Unity in Practice

Serial: EB-00062 The talk primarily focuses on mindfulness and concentration as crucial components of the seven limbs of enlightenment in Zen practice. Mindfulness is emphasized as a quality of presence that transforms mundane activities into...
Concentration, Hindrances, Desire, Oneness, Culture
Aug 02 1988

Navigating Desire Through Mindful Intention

Serial: EB-00061 The talk delves into the nature of desire and intention, exploring how individuals often erect psychological barriers to protect themselves from perceived threats or discomforts. It critically examines common strategies people...
Enemies, Intention, Intimacy, Vow, Gratitude
Jul 29 1988

Sunday Lecture

Serial: SF-00961 The lecture explores the etymology and symbolism of Easter, linking it to spiritual awakening and enlightenment, drawing parallels between Easter's themes and the myth of Buddha's enlightenment. It underscores the practice of...
Interview, Demons, Doubt, Manjushri, Soto Zen, Gratitude, Practice Period, Enemies, Evil...
Apr 03 1988
Green Gulch

Whole-Minded Zen: Embracing Life's Challenges

Serial: EB-00060 The talk explores the concept of whole-mindedness through the lens of the "Tom Sawyer School of Zen," emphasizing engaging fully with experiences rather than resisting them. The discussion highlights the five hindrances in...
Hindrances, Desire, Death, Doubt, Passions
Jan 10 1988

Blue Cliff Record Class

Serial: SF-00070 Cases 14 and 15 The talk focuses on analyzing Cases 14 and 15 of the "Blue Cliff Record," highlighting the challenges posed by translation and interpretation, especially regarding the nuanced wordplay and ambiguity intrinsic to the source text....
Suzuki Roshi, First Principle, Oneness, Lotus Sutra, Karma, Transmission, Dragons, Emptiness,...
Nov 27 1987
5
Green Gulch Farm

Embracing Imperfection in Buddhist Refuge

Serial: SF-00129 The talk focuses on the concept of "taking refuge" in the Buddhist context, exploring the commitment to the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. The discussion touches upon how this commitment involves self-transformation, recognizing the...
Precepts, Ceremony
Nov 12 1987

Embrace Presence Amidst Flowing Time

Serial: SF-00960 The talk explores the themes of time, awareness, and attachment through the lens of Zen practice. It emphasizes the importance of deepening one's commitment to meditation during times of change, illustrated by the analogy of...
Commitment, Bodhisattva Vow, Attachment, Continuous Practice, Vow, training, Faith...
Nov 01 1987
Green Gulch

Everyday Experiences as Enlightenment

Serial: EB-00059 The talk centers on the Zen teaching "everyday mind is the way," initially discussed between Jajo and his teacher Nanchuan, emphasizing that enlightenment is inherent in everyday experiences and actions. It challenges the notion...
Passions, Don't Know Mind, Thoroughness, Silence, Delusion
Aug 30 1987

Imperfect Paths to Spiritual Simplicity

Serial: SF-00005 The talk explores the challenges and paradoxes in Buddhist practice, emphasizing the contrast between Buddhism’s ideal simplicity and the inherent imperfections of life. It discusses the balance of seeking better spiritual...
Gratitude, Religion, Doubt, Balance, Suzuki Roshi, Nirvana, Enemies, Attachment, Evil, Vow...
Jul 11 1987

Zen Harmony: Meditation, Music, Mantra

Serial: SF-00031 The talk discusses the practice of seated meditation (shikantaza) and its relationship with music and chanting in Zen traditions. The emphasis is on "just sitting" with no specific goals, akin to experiencing music moment-to-...
Mantra, Buddha Nature, Lotus Sutra, Soto Zen, Zazen, Bowing, Chanting, Posture, Bell, Zendo...
May 03 1987
Green Gulch Farm

Finding Nourishment in Stillness

Serial: EB-00058 The talk explores the importance of sitting quietly in meditation to experience life's impermanence and vulnerability, advocating for a mindful awareness of self and surroundings to find nourishment in the simplicity of...
Impermanence, Death
Feb 15 1987

Introductory Lecture

Serial: SF-00119 The talk focuses on the concept of "realization" in Zen practice, emphasizing the importance of being present and fully conscious in daily activities such as breathing, eating, and interacting with others. By connecting deeply...
realization, Silence, Zendo, Daily Life, Mindfulness, Happiness, Freedom, Peace...
1987

Heart Sutra Commentary

Serial: SF-00120 -
Emptiness, Birth-and-Death, Heart Sutra, Observe, Impermanence, Four Foundations, Daily Life,...
1987
1

The Bodhisattva Archetype

Serial: SF-00002 Sunday Lecture The lecture focuses on the Bodhisattva archetype, exploring the roles of wisdom and compassion, embodied by Manjushri and Avalokiteshvara, respectively. The discussion compares these two approaches to enlightenment and social...
Manjushri, Nirvana, Vow, Non-duality, Perfect Wisdom, training, Daily Life, Passions,...
Aug 03 1986
Green Gulch Farm

Zazen: The Essence of Non-Dualism

Serial: KR-00165 The talk emphasizes the practice and essence of Zazen as the manifestation of Buddha, integrating both Dharma and person in a non-dualistic manner. It highlights Dogen Zenji's views on Zazen and wisdom, asserting that true...
Dragons, Transmission, Dharma Transmission, Consciousness, Patience, American, Oneness,...
Dec 08 1985

Zen Paths to Unified Insight

Serial: KR-00166 The talk examines the concept of enlightenment in Zen practice, comparing it to the varying experiences of individuals and referencing philosophical ideas, particularly through the use of allegorical stories and Zen teachings....
Monastic Practice, Compassion, Meditation, Commitment, Dragons, Concentration, realization,...
Dec 08 1985

Awakening in Mountains and Rivers

Serial: KR-00163 The talk explores Dogen Zenji's understanding of "knowing" beyond perception, emphasizing a subtle, non-dual awareness that manifests in every form, like mountains and rivers. The discussion distinguishes between three conceptual...
Emotions, Intention, Posture, Consciousness, Ego, Passions, Oneness, Discrimination,...
Dec 07 1985

Beyond Fences: Embracing Zen Unity

Serial: KR-00164 The talk primarily concerns the nature of expectation and its reflection in the "sea world," emphasizing the need to recognize and pass through these reflections without becoming attached. The discussion explores how expectations...
Zendo, Gratitude, Letting Go, lecture, Don't Know Mind, Oneness, Bowing, Dragons,...
Dec 07 1985

Zen Wisdom Through Living Experience

Serial: KR-00167 The talk explores the complex interplay between Zen practice and understanding concepts such as compassion, resistance, and wisdom as articulated by Dogen. The discussion emphasizes the importance of the non-dualistic approach...
Evil, resistance, Pain, Attachment, Consciousness, Happiness, New Year, Don't Know Mind,...
Dec 06 1985

Beyond Knowing: Zen's Experiential Wisdom

Serial: KR-00169 The talk explores Zen's perspective on knowing and enlightenment, emphasizing that true knowing is beyond perception and recognition. This approach suggests a form of wisdom that is independent and not bound by universal...
Consciousness, Ego, Buddha Nature, Intimacy, Mindfulness, Subject-and-Object, Delusion,...
Dec 06 1985

Mindful Path to Infinite Truths

Serial: KR-00168 The talk examines the concept of the "infinite mind" as described in the Lotus Sutra, emphasizing the necessity of opening oneself to all experiences, both mundane and grand, to understand the truth beyond form. The discussion...
Concentration, Compassion, Lay, Soto Zen, Mindfulness, Don't Know Mind, Commitment,...
Jan 14 1985

Silent Awareness: Path to True Nature

Serial: EB-00057 The talk delves into the concept of silent awareness as an authentic state of being, contrasting Western critical attitudes with Eastern intuitive silence, influenced by encounters with figures like Rabindranath Tagore and Ramana...
Ego, Silence, Intuition, Buddha Nature, Death
Sep 28 1983

Practice Life

Serial: SF-00102 Talk given at Berkeley per introduction. The talk focuses on the importance of engaging fully with life as it is, without wishful thinking, and emphasizes accepting both joy and suffering as natural parts of life. The discussion describes the practice of Zazen as a...
Teacher-and-Student, Daily Life, Buddha Nature, Posture, resistance, Suzuki Roshi, Dharma...
Aug 07 1983

The Second Grave Precept

Serial: SF-00027 Not taking what is not given. The talk explores the second grave precept of not stealing, emphasizing its multifaceted dimensions, including the theft of time and the impact of expectation on practice. Personal anecdotes demonstrate the moral challenges...
Buddha Nature, Precepts, Peace, training, realization, Samadhi, Ceremony, Ego, Silence,...
Aug 04 1983
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