RECOMMENDED 'At Home' Liturgy

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01-12-2011, 04:59 AM
Jundo

RECOMMENDED 'At Home' Liturgy

Hi,

'Liturgy' means the many acts and rituals by which we manifest (and are manifested by) the beliefs and teachings at the heart of Buddhist Practice. Some we practice as a group together, some at private times (not two, by the way). These various practices can bring the teachings more visibly to life, and our lives into the Teachings. Of course, in our way, Zazen is the centerpiece, and nothing else is really necessary. However, other practices can be truly powerful and resonate in the hearts of many people, bringing much Wisdom and Compassion into our lives.

What are the some of the practices which we recommend or encourage at home and work ... our practice places in this Sangha in which all of life is the temple?

ZAZEN

Of course, seated Zazen is our one and only practice, for by the very nature of Shikantaza ... when sitting Zazen, there is nothing more to do, nothing more that need be done, no addition needed nor anything to take away. Zazen is complete and whole. No other place to be in all the world, no other place we must (or can) run to. Nothing lacks, all is sacred, and Zazen is the One Liturgy. It is vital to be sat by Zazen with such attitude. Thus, Zazen is sat each day as the One and Whole Practice.

Yet, of course, we do eventually rise up from the Zafu and get on with "the rest of life". Then, ANYTHING and EVERYTHING can be encountered as Sacred, One, Whole ... as 'Zazen' ... from 'changing a baby's diaper' to 'stapling staples' at work to 'pulling weeds' in the garden ... all a SACRED RITUAL when approached as such.

Thus, I wish to HIGHLY RECOMMEND one of the best little books on the subject of 'liturgy' in our so called 'ordinary' life at home and work ... please read it ...

Bringing the Sacred to Life: The Daily Practice of Zen Ritual by John Daido Loori Roshi
http://www.amazon.com/Bringing-Sacre.../dp/1590305337

... one of the best 'Zen Books' I have encountered in years, and very unique in its subject matter. Also, another book very very highly recommended for understanding the significance and origins of some of the traditional chants and practices one will encounter around Treeleaf and most other Soto Zen Sangha is Shohaku Okumura's "Living by Vow: A Practical Introduction to Eight Essential Zen Chants and Texts"

http://www.treeleaf.org/forums/showt...en-in-the-West

The sacredness can be brought into everything, even the most ordinary ... even the most ordinary manifests the sacred, is sacred and 'not just ordinary'.

Here are some other rituals that we practice in this Sangha, and that you can adapt for home. REMEMBER: We encourage folks not to be bound by tradition, or overly caught in the 'right, wrong or traditional' way to do things. Instead, please bring traditions to life in ways which express your own heart. There is no need to follow every practice or any practice (besides Zazen, of course! 8) ), and please develop those which complement your life.

On the other hand ... neither reject practices merely because, at first glance, they seem too exotic or hard or you do not understand. I ask everyone to look and listen to this 'sit-a-long' on '(UN)TURNING JAPANESE" ...

Quote:

So, must we bow, ring bells, chant (in Japanese, no less), wear traditional robes, have Buddha Statues, burn incense? ... All that stuff besides Zazen. Are they necessary to our Practice?

No, not at all!

On the other hand ...

http://www.treeleaf.org/sit-a-long/w...-japanese.html

It is also vitally important that, in undertaking any practice or ritual, we "NON-DO" the practice ... meaning that we pursue it diligently and sincerely, yet with "nothing to obtain" ... much as washing the windows carefully to remove the grime, getting the job done, all while dropping all thought of "clean and dirty" and a job to achieve. That is another subject we talk about here often.

So, what are some other daily rituals and practices which one can NON-DO?

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KINHIN

This is walking Zazen ... step by step, no place to get to, constantly arriving. It can be practiced any time ... between or after seated Zazen or any place ... in the slow postal line or grocery line. Instructions are in our Guide to Basic Sitting (PDF):

https://sites.google.com/site/jundot...edirects=0&d=1

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HOME ALTAR

Although our Buddhist Practice is not limited to any place or time, and includes the noisy and busy places as well as the quiet ... it is good to set aside a small, still, special place where we can enter the mindset of practice. For some, it need not contain more than a Zafu or chair. Others may wish to make a small altar, featuring incense (if not allergic! ... the incense can be 'lit' invisibly, without a match too!), perhaps flowers ... and a statue of a Buddha or Bodhisattva. There is no required pattern in our Sangha.

Here is a discussion and some simple instructions for making an altar at home.
http://www.treeleaf.org/forums/showt...ll=1#post27423

However, again, one need not be bound by rules. A simple framed picture, even a picture in your wallet which you pull out to look at, can be equal to the greatest Temple. If not a statue, a stone, a flower or simply empty space can suffice. What is more, my personal opinion is that a "Buddha Statue" is both seen and unseen ... and what is NOT a Buddha Statue?

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ATTENDING OUR WEEKLY AND MONTHLY ZAZENKAI

We have weekly and monthly Zazenkai netcasts, with lots of Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen, Chanting, Bowing, Zazen and ... Zazen ...

http://www.treeleaf.org/forums/forum...ENKAI-NETCASTS

Although we can all daily sit at home alone (yet still are 'all together') ... and although it may be strange to some to 'sit over the internet' ... I feel it is vitally important that we make the effort to sit together as a group. I wish that EVERYONE WOULD MAKE THE EFFORT TO JOIN IN OUR ZAZENKAI AS OFTEN AS POSSIBLE (it is available 'any place any time' ... so time and place are not an excuse!)

We also have sitting with others at various times in our TreeleafNow Zazen groups. Check the calendar:
https://www.treeleaf.org/now/#calendar

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CHANTING

At the Zazenkai, we always recite various traditional Chants ... and any of these can be undertaken at home. The Verse of Atonement and The Four Vows are especially encouraged to chant each day ... perhaps at the end of your day before bed ...

The Heart Sutra can also be recited any time and place ... perhaps before the home altar or on the Zafu prior to Zazen.

In reciting, we tend to just merge into the sound ... not giving it a thought. However, it is also good at other times to make study of what the chants MEAN (most of them are statements of Zen Buddhist teachings).

Here is our Chant Book ...

Chant Book PDF

or

Chant Book (SHORT VERSION HTML)

If you would like to try chanting the Heart Sutra in Japanese, but don't speak Japanese, here is a slightly irreverent guide to pronouncing the Sutra in Japanese:

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...-irreverent%29

Daido's book, above, suggests some other possible chantings too. There is also the traditional Evening Gatha ... time swiftly passes by ...

Quote:

Let me respectfully remind you,
life and death are of supreme importance.
Time swiftly passes by,
and opportunity is lost.
Let us awaken,
awaken.
Take heed,
do not squander your life.

Side Note: I love that Gatha ... so long as we each awaken to the fact that there is no "life and death" ... no me or you for the reminding ... even as time passes by, no time either ... and nothing about life that can be squandered, wasted or lost (SO DON'T KILL TIME, AND DON'T WASTE IT! [scared] )

The Verse of the Kesa, of course, is a daily practice for those who have undertaken Jukai and received a Rakusu (Kesa). Do not place one on oneself without reciting! Here are some instructions on handling a Rakusu and chanting the Verse:

https://youtu.be/3nuiexVKIvk

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SEWING A RAKUSU (or Full Kesa) as we do for our Jukai preparations as a group, is also a great Liturgy ...

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...usu-Sew-a-Long

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GATHA

'Gatha' are short, meaningful little recitation which can be recited before (and/or after) many 'ordinary' daily activities to remind us how sacred they are, and how all support our life and practice ... from eating to work to going to the toilet to washing the face ... Here are some and a discussion ...

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...l=1#post213658

Each can be recited out loud or silently within.

A very special 'Meal Gatha' might be recited by oneself or with one's family (much like 'Saying Grace') .. or during lunch breaks at work, etc (in voice or silently). Here is the one we recite during our annual 'Ango' period, but it is excellent as a daily practice and reminder ...

(Hands in Gassho) This food comes from the efforts
of all sentient beings past and present,
and is medicine for nourishment of our Practice-Life.
We offer this meal of many virtues and tastes
to the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha,
and to all life in every realm of existence.
May all sentient beings in the universe
be sufficiently nourished.

Daido Roshi's lovely book suggested some other Meal Gatha.

In fact ... one can make their own Gatha for ANYTHING ... which is exactly what Treeleafers have done for fun and personal inspiration ...

http://www.treeleaf.org/forums/showt...hp?6917-Gathas

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AFFIRMATIONS

Similar to "Gatha," one can recite some wise affirmations each day, as simple reminders of Wisdom and Compassion (Thank you to our Treeleaf member Stobird Tom for suggesting most of these), and you might make some of your own:

Quote:

May I deeply and honestly practice the four Bodhisattva Vows with magnanimity, love, and joy

May I do my best to make the world a better, more beautiful place to live in for all

May I be humble and kind today

May I lend a hand to others today

May I water the good seeds of mind today, letting the three poisons (of excess desire, anger and ignorance) dry up

May I know deeply that Shikantaza is the best teacher

May I know deeply that all of life, no matter how exciting or menial, is practice-enlightenment

May I know deeply my own and others interrelated wholeness

May I know deeply that there is nothing in me to run from and nothing in me to gain, I am responsible for myself, my acts, words and thoughts because I am whole

May I know deeply that any act, word or thought can be a source of suffering or contentment, and what makes them a source of suffering or contentment is between my ears

May I deeply know that the universe does not exist for the purpose of satisfying my puny selfish thoughts, feelings, and desires

May I know deeply that I and others are trying their best

May I listen more than I speak

May I know deeply that my reality is born and then dies with me, therefore I am responsible for it

May I know deeply that my actions are the universes’ actions, and no matter how small or insignificant, are sacred rituals

May I be responsible enough to care for all objects and sentient beings with wise attention and compassion every minute of the day

May I behave like an honest, upright, helpful being in all situations that call for it, behaving with equipoise and grace like a dancer that may sometimes made a mistake but continues to dance, rising up with self-respect when tripped or knocked down, forgiving over and over.

May I avoid to be self pitying or overly-critical of others

May I do the more difficult thing when the difficult thing is the right thing to do

Although there will be ripples, and sometimes torrents in personal and professional life, may I do my best to flow harmoniously together with all people and circumstances day by day

May I live with joy, loving-kindness, and gratitude for all, and respect for the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

THE TREELEAF APP

Our Treeleaf "DAILY WISDOM/Dharma Leafs" phone app is available again, now ready for android! (For iPhone, there is a more limited way: https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...l=1#post304229!)

The app is very simple: With a click, a few words of Zen wisdom pop up, to be repeated, followed by a certain number of breaths. It is good practice during one's busy day, especially at those moments when life gets a little trying.

To access:

Android, Google Play Store: Search for "Dharma Leafs". If searching, include the quotes when searching, this will make finding it much easier.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...reeleaf.dharma

Many of the sayings were suggested by Treeleaf members at the time of the app's original development.

I would like to thank our Treeleaf member, Drew, for all his hard work these past many weeks to update the coding, and also get it ready and uploaded. I would also like to thank again Ongen, the original developer of the app.

There is no charge for the app, of course, and it is meant to be both free and freeing. As far as I know, as a good Buddhist app, it is free of "malware" and the like too. Only "goodware." gassho1

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RYAKU FUSATSU

In many Buddhist traditions there is a monthly practice of Uposatha on days of the full moon to recite and renew the Precepts. In Japanese Zen this tradition takes form as Ryaku Fusatsu. It is a lovely chance to wipe the slate clean, atone and make amends, vow to begin again. We have a group that gathers with the full moon (in various time zones) for this renewal. Details here:

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/foru...tment-Ceremony

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BOWING

Bowing can be a wonderful daily practice of humility and gratitude ... not to a statue or necessarily anyone in particular, but to ALL OF REALITY AND EVERYONE, all supporting our life and practice.

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...l=1#post213659

Some Korean Zen (Son) groups engage in the practice of 108 Full Prostrations Daily (also ... good for those Bodhisattva 6-pack Abs 8) )

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ORYOKI

A lovely tradition of formal meal ritual ... We also hold an online class and practice group on that from time to time (PM Shugen for details).

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/foru...ractice-Circle

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METTA RECITAL

A daily practice we strongly encourage in this Sangha is the recital of "Metta" ... Loving Kindness expressed to all living beings ... not leaving out even the one we find hard to love ...

http://www.treeleaf.org/forums/showt...Metta-PRACTICE

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

TONGLEN

Another lovely practice, originally from the Tibetans, of symbolically taking in the suffering of others, and returning peace, soothing our own heart along the way ...
https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/foru...ractice-Circle

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

DANA

Making all our work (in the factory, office, garden, kitchen and nursery) into a daily sacred act ...

http://www.treeleaf.org/sit-a-long/w...enerosity.html

... as well as work and giving to help others in need ...

http://www.treeleaf.org/forums/forum...ROJECTS-CENTER

...is a vital practice in this Sangha, not to be neglected.

Our requested daily "Lend A Hand" practice is one facet of this too:

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...Lend-A-Hand%29

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

SAMU

Of course, all our great and little tasks at home or work can be felt as a "sacred ritual" and practice ... from changing a baby diaper to washing dishes to stapling paper to meetings ...

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...l=1#post213657

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SHAKYO SUTRA TRACING

The practice of Shakyo (写経, which literally means "Copying Sutras") is a simple yet focused, relaxing yet powerful meditative practice that anyone can do, offered at many temples in Japan. Millions of people in Japan have practiced Shakyo, either just occasionally when visiting a famous temple as a tourist, or regularly and more seriously as part of a particular temple's Shakyo club. And we have a group here at Treeleaf too, first timers welcome any time!

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/foru...guage-Study%29

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A TIME FOR TEXT STUDY

Our way is said to be 'Beyond Words and Letters" ... but that does not mean that we should not also have time to crack the books!

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...-Viewing-Right

__________________________________________________ ____________________

__________________________________________________ ____________________

SO, AM I LEAVING ANYTHING OUT?

Probably, but that should keep any Bodhisattva busy for awhile! :encouragement:

Anyway, WHAT IS -NOT- A SACRED LITURGY!?!

I would like to close with some very wise words from an old member:

Quote:

There may be a saying and I don't know who said this but the candle that burns brightest has the shortest life. What I mean is that how I practice now is to make it part of my daily life... nothing special. If I make it special it's separate from me, and I don't think that's what this is. If I stay consistent and don't overdo it, then I'll maintain my practice. If I push too hard, I'll burn out and this will just be another phase of my life; something I tried.

But that is not the Way at least from what I've learned. We share in a practice that's come down from generations, and so to honor it I stay consistent.

Gassho Jundo

SatTodayLAH
01-12-2011, 04:39 PM
Risho

Re: RECOMMENDED 'AT HOME' LITURGY

This is awesome! Thank you :)

Gassho,

Cyril
01-13-2011, 11:55 AM
Shokai

Re: RECOMMENDED 'AT HOME' LITURGY

Thank you Jundo for this 'zen Life in a nutshell'. It's good to be reminded of how we can all enhance our practice.

gassho,
01-24-2011, 04:41 AM
Engyo

Re: RECOMMENDED 'AT HOME' LITURGY

In addition to all the foregoing good words and expressions, any chants or devotions which appear in Sutrayana are fair practice for one who wishes to make visible or audible that which we express in shikantaza invisibly and inaudibly; particularly in cultivating the Bodhisattva Way.
Chanting hopes of loving-kindness for all or wishes that all sentient beings receive healing blessings to be free from suffering, illness, pain, debillitating disease or disability is all to this same purpose.
In addition to the chants we practice in Zazenkai, I practice Medicine Buddha Mantra with many others in the World Wide Healing Circle. I'm even thinking about booking a time slot to do it in Zen Hall. While I couldn't swear that this practice makes a difference to anyone but me, I will continue to sit with confidence (faith) that it does. Much like with my vow to save all sentient beings, I will even send prayers into the unconditioned that it does. I call it "right intention".
Gassho,
Engyo
05-08-2012, 10:43 PM
Jinyo

Re: RECOMMENDED 'AT HOME' LITURGY

Lou - thank you for sharing your thoughts on the Loori book. I have just read it through for the second time.

I feel the most important statement Loori makes in his introduction is that our participation
in Zen liturgy begins as an act of faith. If we train or 'school' ourselves it is only in order to realise
that which is already there - the buddha within us.

I can understand that there is the potential for 'imitation' in liturgy practice- as in artists emulating Picasso - but Loori
underlines that 'great faith, great doubt and great determination' nurtures our practice.

I'm not sure that we set out to 'master' Zen in the way we might set out to master a skill - in order to then 'unlearn' and leap into the void. My (limited) understanding is that we are born into the void ( nonduality and interconnectedness) - and so there is nothing to master - only a re-cognition of what is already there. Our letting go is really a return to the sacred within ourselves and the whole of life.

I found one of the most helpful thoughts, in the book, is the idea that form (in this case rituals) is really a state of consciousness. This has become a touch stone for gauging within myself whether I'm practicing by rote - or genuinely engaging with a focused mind.

But no doubt I often fool myself :oops:

Gassho

Willow
10-02-2012, 09:52 PM
Geika

For wearing the rakusu, do we place it on our heads (hands in gassho), say the verse of the kesa, then unfold it, place it to our lips, then wear it?
09-10-2013, 01:51 PM
Ishin

Thank you Jundo

This post was very informative and helped answer many questions I have about Zen Practice

Gassho,

C
05-20-2014, 08:32 PM
Byokan

Ah! Very nice to have these recommendations all in one place, thank you Jundo.

Gassho,
Lisa
04-22-2015, 01:27 AM
Kyosei

How should us offer incense ritualistically? is there a proper manner?

Why do we dedicate merits?

Thanks friends,
04-22-2015, 02:28 AM
Jundo

Quote:

Originally Posted by mpdalles

How should us offer incense ritualistically? is there a proper manner?

Why do we dedicate merits?

Thanks friends,

Hello Marcos,

Incense is a way found in many religions to bring the olfactory senses into a sacred mood of heart. Perhaps the smoke rising also reminds us of impermanence, as the flame burns and the whisps rejoin the air.

If you wish to light incense, I would choose a scent subtle and not too stimulating (a light sandlewood, for example, not many of the rich and flowery scents that one can find these days). Light a candle, Gassho, respectfully and with clear heart (this is vital) lift the incense stick with one hand while holding Gassho with the other, light it in the flame, gently flick to extinguish if needing to extinguish the flame at the tip (or tamp quickly with the thumb and index finger of the other hand ... do not blow like a birthday candle), place upright in the incense bowl filled with sand, Gassho again with both hands.

Something like below is a lovely incense holder (just make sure it is stable, and the cat will not knock it over, because ... )

That's all.

Gassho, J

SatToday

http://cdn1.bigcommerce.com/n-63unu/...g?t=1403793372
04-22-2015, 02:48 AM
Jundo

Oh, and your other question ...

Quote:

Why do we dedicate merits?

Traditionally, in Buddhism, it was felt that "merit" arose from good acts (such as making a donation to a Buddhist temple, translating subtitles on a Buddhist talk :) ) and built up in a great, cosmic "bank account" to make good Karmic effects and help cancel out bad Karma. It is an aspect of Mahayana Buddhism, and some Theravadan traditions, that developed very early (and which some other Buddhist sometimes find hard to grasp). Here is a simple and clear explanation from the Tricycle blog ...

Quote:

what you are referring to here is called ‘merit transfer’. The idea is that through your skilful conduct you build up a stock of merit - a kind of spiritual capital that is earning interest in your karmic bank account. According to many Buddhist traditions, this merit may be transferred to others, especially the dead, sick, or spiritually destitute.

There are specific ceremonies and rituals by means of which merit is transferred. For instance, in Theravada Buddhism, a donor may give food or clothing to the monastic community and then ‘donate’ the merit gained to a departed relative (to help them in the ‘after-life’). As far as I know, there is no need for the other person to agree to receive merit.

Some Mahayana traditions emphasise merit transfer as a means of overcoming spiritual acquisitiveness and expressing compassionate concern for others. The Bodhisattva, or ideal Buddhist, gives all his or her merit away because they want as many beings as possible to benefit from their spiritual virtue. A form of words that one might use to dedicate merit in this way is: ‘May the merit gained in my acting thus, go to the alleviation of the suffering of all beings.’

A more scholarly treatment of the subject is here (in Theravada Buddhism):

http://enlight.lib.ntu.edu.tw/FULLTE...IL/ew26012.htm

Personally, I do not have much opinion on the cosmic and Karmic effects of transferring merit, except that I do believe it is fully in keeping with the Bodhisattva vows, and a wonderful attitude, to work for the benefit of others. Generally, I have avoided straight "dedication of merit" language in the "Eko" after our chants ... preferring wording such as "we dedicate or sincere efforts to" or "we dedicate our hopes and aspirations" or "our thoughts and caring". I simply am not much one for the belief that we are setting up a bank account of merit that we can transfer to others to help them in various ways, including a better rebirth.

Of course, doing something for the benefit of others is a "cosmic effect", even if most ordinary. It is very much in the way I described the far reaching effects of "Metta" (Loving Kindness) on another thread ...

Quote:

People often ask me if I believe Metta really works and is helpful, even across great distances. Well, I say this ...

If one is filled with anger, hate and ill will, it is easy to see how that infects the space, situations and people immediately around us who must deal with us. It can even damage folks and infect relationships with family and friends at great distances, even if we only communicate sometimes. But further, it brings a bit more ugliness and separation into this world in general, and our doing so adds just a touch more bitterness to the society we all share as residents of the world near and far. These days, a fellow who does a violent act or speaks a hurtful word in one city far away can cause ripples of violence and hurt far across the world ... just open the newspaper or internet and you will see countless examples of this spread of the effects of greed, anger and ignorance like great waves circling the world.

So, just the same when we bring a touch of loving kindness, sympathy, well wishes, peace, charity and the like into this life.

http://www.treeleaf.org/forums/showt...l=1#post152923

One of the little aspects about practice around Treeleaf.

Gassho, J
04-22-2015, 03:02 AM
Kyosei

Thank you, Jundo.

_/\_
04-22-2015, 01:55 PM
Kyosei

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jundo

Light a candle, Gassho, respectfully and with clear heart (this is vital)

Jundo,

Sorry I forgot to ask it yesterday.

Why did you say that it is vital to be with a clear heart when we're going to light a candle?

Sometimes our hearts are not so "clear" (maybe sorrowful, or resentful), in that case should we wait a little before light the candle?

How is that attitude of "clear heart"?

Somehow I'm linking this to my Zazen practice, as I have an altar here at home, and everyday I'm gonna sit, I light a candle on the altar, light an incense, recite the "Three Refuges" in Pali, then I sit Zazen. That is to say, I do Zazen illuminating the room only with it's candle's light.
04-22-2015, 04:23 PM
Jundo

Quote:

Originally Posted by mpdalles

Jundo,

Sorry I forgot to ask it yesterday.

Why did you say that it is vital to be with a clear heart when we're going to light a candle?

Sometimes our hearts are not so "clear" (maybe sorrowful, or resentful), in that case should we wait a little before light the candle?

How is that attitude of "clear heart"?

Somehow I'm linking this to my Zazen practice, as I have an altar here at home, and everyday I'm gonna sit, I light a candle on the altar, light an incense, recite the "Three Refuges" in Pali, then I sit Zazen. That is to say, I do Zazen illuminating the room only with it's candle's light.

Well, just as with Zazen, one sits as one is. If upset, let the upset be ... if sad, let the sadness be ... if feeling off balance, let the off balance be.

However, the point of all Practice is to realize the clarity and balance that shines forth when the mind becomes still. Silent Illumination. By all the "letting be", one allows such wild thoughts and emotions to settle down and drift away. One reaches a centered stillness.

Thus, when lighting incense, sitting Zazen or in any aspect of Zen Practice, one can undertake each with clarity of heart.

The point of allowing the "sorrowful, resentful" to be (and be let go) is not to keep on with the sorrow and resentment, but to attain the balanced clarity of silent illumination that shines through and clears away the sorrow, resentment etc. :cool:

So, when lighting incense and all the rest, it is best to do so with a clear, balanced, unbound, shining heart.

Do I explain in a clear way?

Gassho, J

SatToday
05-22-2015, 11:09 PM
Theophan

Thank You Jundo for the teaching and guidance on the Liturgy.
I will order the book "Living by vow"

Gassho
Theophan
Sat Today
03-16-2016, 08:42 PM
Meian

Namaste, all

I am resurrecting another old thread, yes :) As I am navigating the forums and locating readings, teachings, resources, etc. ...... This thread is phenomenal, so much info in one place - thank you, Jundo :)

I just want to add my deepest gratitude to all the hard work and dedication that has gone into this sangha - and continues to. This is such a wonderful community, I love it here. I know I only just started posting and participating (somewhat - I have been reading periodically for months), even though I joined a year ago - life happens, and things come together when the time is right, I believe.

I will be looking for ways to "give back" and assist the sangha in the future, whenever it is appropriate and when I can be useful in some small way. For now I am exploring the teachings and practices that feel very natural to me, and simple in a profound way. I am learning from all of you, and am so thankful for your generosity, wisdom, and shared experiences.

There is much I would like to respond to in the forums, so much vast wisdom and experience - but I am beyond words for it at this time. Reflecting on all of it and feeling my mind expand, and my perspective on life changing already, little drops of water in the soil.

Gassho,
Kim
#sattoday
03-16-2016, 11:53 PM
jtlewis

Thank you for resurrecting this post Kim. Just this week I began reading Daido Loori's "Brining the Sacred to Life" to help me make this practice apart of my daily life rather than solely focusing on the time I am sitting shikantaza.

And thanks to all those past and present who have gone before and helped to pave this way for myself and others.

Gassho,

Josh
Sat Today
07-27-2016, 06:13 AM
Theophan

Jundo,
Thank you. I have picked up copies of the books you recommended.

Gassho
Theophan
Sat Today
09-15-2017, 10:05 PM
Chishou

Quote:

Originally Posted by TomSchulte

I like to use this chant as part of my home liturgy. Here's Some background

Sat today
LAH

It appears to not be working, at least for me.

Simon

Ask not what the Sangha can do for you, but what you can do for the Sangha.
01-04-2018, 10:09 PM
Rakurei

Just grabbed Bring the Sacred to Life. I really enjoy Loori's writing style, much recommended.
01-09-2018, 09:47 AM
Ryudo

Thank you Jundo.

I was searching for a verse or a chant that we can recite when a beloved one died (any sentient being).
As I understand Metta it is more for the ones dealing with the loss and not so much for the one that died.

So is there a verse or chant that we can use for the deceised? (Like to honour them and help them on their next path?)

Thank you again.

Gassho
Marcus
SatToday/LAH
01-09-2018, 11:28 AM
Jundo

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marcus

Thank you Jundo.

I was searching for a verse or a chant that we can recite when a beloved one died (any sentient being).
As I understand Metta it is more for the ones dealing with the loss and not so much for the one that died.

So is there a verse or chant that we can use for the deceised? (Like to honour them and help them on their next path?)

Thank you again.

Gassho
Marcus
SatToday/LAH

Hi Marcus,

The Heart Sutra is All Purpose. That is my universal recommendation.

Another possibility is the Shariraimon, as we recite for our Nehan-e Memorial in February ...

Quote:

With/ whole/heart/ed/ gra/ti/tude/ we/ bow/
to/ the/ re/lics/ still/ pre/sent of/ the/ True/ Bo/dy/[*] of/ the/ Ta/tha/ga/ta/ Sha/kya/mu/ni,/
who/ is/ ful/ly/ en/dowed/ with/ my/ri/ad/ vir/tues;/
to/ the/ Dhar/ma/ Bo/dy/ which/ is/ Truth/ it/self;/
and/ to/ the/ whole/ u/ni/verse/ which/ is/ his/ Stu/pa./
With/ deep/ res/pect/ we/ ve/ner/ate/ the/ One/
who /lived/ his/ life/ for/ the/ sake/ of/ all/ be/ings./
Though/ the/ sus/ten/ance/ of/ Bud/dha,/ the/ Truth/
en/ters/ us/ and/ we/ en/ter/ Truth./
Let/ us/ strive/ to/ be/ne/fit/ all/ li/ving/ be/ings,/[*] a/rouse/ the/ thought/ of/ A/wa/ken/ing,/
cul/ti/vate/ Bod/hi/sat/tva/ Prac/tice,/
and/ to/ge/ther/ en/ter/ Per/fect/ Peace,/[*] the/ pen/e/tra/tion/ of/ the/ e/qua/li/ty/ of/ all/ things./
Now/ let/ us/ re/ver/ent/ly/ bow.

Details here ... It will be the same this year as well ...

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...-Zazenkai-2017

Gassho, J

STLAH
01-09-2018, 12:07 PM
Ryudo

Thank you Jundo.

gassho1
Marcus
SatToday/LAH
01-27-2018, 11:39 AM
Ryudo

Hi all,

I now have my personal Rakusu that I honour and that I am grateful for. Thank you Jundo, thank you all.

Q: When do we use/put on the Rakusu? Allways when meditating? Only at Zazenkai and ceremony? Any time?
I know it represents the Buddha's robe, so probably there are guidelines concerning the use.

Thank you in advance for any help here.

Gassho
Ryudo
SatToday/LAH
01-27-2018, 12:16 PM
Zenmei

Recommended 'at home' liturgy

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ryudo

Hi all,

I now have my personal Rakusu that I honour and that I am grateful for. Thank you Jundo, thank you all.

Q: When do we use/put on the Rakusu? Allways when meditating? Only at Zazenkai and ceremony? Any time?
I know it represents the Buddha's robe, so probably there are guidelines concerning the use.

Thank you in advance for any help here.

Gassho
Ryudo
SatToday/LAH

The only real guideline I’ve heard is don’t wear it into the bathroom. And don’t put it directly on the floor. It’s the Buddha’s teachings, so treat it with respect, but it’s not so precious that you can never touch it. It’s better to wear it and care for it and let it be a part of your life. It’s closer to a work uniform than it is to fancy ceremonial robes.

I usually wear mine for my daily sit, or if I’m sewing. It tends to get in the way if you’re cleaning or doing other work around the house. I don’t wear it out because I think it would come across as showing off or trying to look special. If I had a Soto sitting group, I would wear it there, though.

[emoji120], Zenmei (sat)
01-27-2018, 12:32 PM
Ryudo

Thank you Zenmei,
your answer sounds sensible. It is somewhat as I thought.
I will wear it for my daily Zazen and at ceremonies.

Have a great weekend.

Gassho
Ryudo
SatToday/LAH
01-28-2018, 09:23 PM
Shinshi

Hi Folks,

Following Jukai I have been trying to formalize my daily sitting a bit. I put together the following for myself and would be interested in any feedback. My room is set up so that my alter is right next to my Zabuton. There are a couple of things that are a bit different than treeleaf. When I first started I learned to bow three times before sitting - so I still do that. Treeleaf just does two.

I tried to write up the Rakusu procedure as shown in the video linked below. I used the Treeleaf chant book for the chants.

I have seen to slight variants on the Robe verse. Some times the last line is
Vowing to save all sentient beings
sometimes
Vowing to free all sentient beings

So I included them both.

I tried to create something that wasn't too long and included the Heart Sutra.

Once a week I also do Metta.

Anyway, let me know if something looks wrong or misplaced or needs to be added.

Once I get some feedback, I'll write this up as Word file and PDF if people are interested.

Gassho, Shinshi

SaT-LaH

------------

Stand in Shashu outside the of the doorway

Step in with left foot, at left side of doorway

Gassho at the doorway toward the Buddha in their room

Walk in Shashu to Alter/Zafu (clockwise – following contour of room)

Arrange cushion

Bow three times
• Towards Alter - Buddha (turn clockwise)
• Towards Room – Sangha (turn clockwise)
• Towards Zafu – Dharma Sit Facing Alter

Put on Rakusu
• Remove Rakusu from its envelope
• Touch Rakusu to forehead, then place on head

Recite Robe Verse (Takkesage)
English (3x)
• Robe of Liberation boundless
• Field beyond both form and formless
• Wearing the Tathagata's Teachings
• Vowing to (free) save all sentient beings
Or Japanese (3x)
• Dai sai geda puku
• Muso fukuden e
• Hi bu nyorai kyo
• Kodo sho shu jo

Rakusu (con’t)
• Bow forward, take Rakusu touch forehead three times
• Unfold,
• Touch Maneki to lips
• Touch Maneki to forehead three times
• Put on Rakusu

Light Incense

Ring Bell three times

Recite Heart Sutra (English)

◎
A/vo/lo/ki/tes/va/ra/ Bo/dhi/satt/va/, A/wa/kened/ One/ of/ Com/pas/sion/,
In/ Praj/na/ Pa/ra/mi/ta/, the/Deep/ Prac/tice/ of/ Per/fect/ Wis/dom/ ◎
Per/ceived/ the/ emp/ti/ness/ of /all /ለve /con/di/tions/,
And/ was/ free/ of/ suf/fer/ing/.
O/ Sha/ri/pu/tra/, form/ is/ no/ o/ther/ than/ emp/ti/ness/,
Emp/ti/ness/ no/ o/ther/ than/ form/;
Form/ is/ pre/cise/ly/ emp/ti/ness/, emp/ti/ness/ pre/cise/ly/ form/.
Sen/sa/tions/, per/cep/tions/, for/ma/tions/ and/ con/scious/ness/ are/ al/so/ like/ this/.
O/ Sha/ri/pu/tra/, all/ things/ are/ ex/pres/sions/ of/ emp/ti/ness/,
Not/ born/, not/ des/troyed/, not/ stained/, not/ pure/;
Nei/ther/ wax/ing/ nor/ wan/ing/.
Thus/ emp/ti/ness/ is/ not/ form/; not/ sen/sa/tion/ nor/ per/cep/tion/,
Not/ for/ma/tion/ nor/ con/scious/ness/.
No/ eye/, ear/, nose/, tongue/, bo/dy/, mind/;
No/ sight/, sound/, smell/, taste/, touch/, nor/ ob/ject/ of/ mind/;
No/ realm/ of/ sight/, no/ realm/ of/ con/scious/ness/;
No/ ig/no/rance/, no/ end/ to/ ig/no/rance/;
No/ old/ age/ and/ death/,
No/ ces/sa/tion/ of/ old/ age/ and/ death/;
No/ suf/fer/ing/, nor/ cause/ or/ end/ to/ suf/fer/ing/;
No/ path/, no/ wis/dom/ and/ no/ gain/.
No/ gain/ – thus/ Bod/dhi/satt/vas/ live/ this/ Praj/na/ Pa/ra/mi/ta/ ◎
With/ no/ hin/drance/ of/ mind/ –
No/ hin/drance/ there/fore/ no/ fear/.
Far/ be/yond/ all/ de/lu/sion/, Nir/va/na/ is/ al/rea/dy/ here/.
All/ past/, pre/sent/ and/ fu/ture/ Budd/has/
Live/ this/ Praj/na/ Pa/ra/mi/ta/ ◎
And/ re/al/ize/ su/preme/ and/ com/plete/ en/light/en/ment/.
There/fore/ know/ that/ Praj/na/ Pa/ra/mi/ta/
Is/ the/ sac/red/ man/tra/, the/ lu/min/ous/ man/tra/,
the/ sup/reme/ man/tra/, the/ in/com/pa/ra/ble/ man/tra/
by/ which/ all/ suf/fe/ring/ is/ clear/.
This/ is/ no/ o/ther/ than/ Truth/.
There/fore/ set/ forth/ the/ Praj/na/ Pa/ra/mi/ta/ man/tra/.
Set/ forth/ this/ man/tra/ and/ pro/claim/: ◎

(1x)
Gate! Gate! (Already Gone, Gone)
Paragate! (Already Gone Beyond)
Parasamgate! (Already Fully Beyond)
Bodhi! Svaha (So-wah-kah)! ◎ (Awakening, Rejoice)

3 prostrations

Turn to sit facing wall

Zazen

Recite: Verse of Atonement:
• All harmful acts, words and thoughts, ever committed by me since of old,
• On account of beginningless greed, anger and ignorance,
• Born of my body, mouth and mind,
• Now I atone for them all

Recite: Four Vows (to be recited 3x, vibrant on the second, soft on the third time):
• To save all sentient beings, though beings numberless
• To transform all delusions, though delusions inexhaustible
• To perceive Reality, though Reality is boundless
• To attain the Enlightened Way, a Way non-attainable

Remove Rakusu
• Touch Rakusu/Maneki to forehead three times
• Touch once to lips
• Fold
• Place in Envelope

Stand up

Bow three times
• Towards Alter - Buddha
• Towards Room - Sangha
• Towards Zafu - Dharma

Walk out of room, in Shashu, walking clockwise

Gassho at doorway

Step out of room with left foot, standing to the left of the doorway

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...093#post189093
01-29-2018, 02:35 AM
Jundo

Hi Shinshi,

It seems lovely and respectful of Traditions, and also (most importantly) seems to resonate in your heart as the way of Shinshiji (Shinshi Temple). Lovely.

I am sure that you are also adding the procedures for the straightening the Zafu with three fingers, Gassho, turn clockwise and Gassho, yes?

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...093#post189093

Also, saving is rescuing is freeing. You can just pick one word that resonates with you, and use that, rather than two words.

Gassho, Jundo

SatTodayLAH
01-29-2018, 01:25 PM
Ryudo

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shinshi

The Whole Folder
Folder Access: https://drive.google.com/drive/folde...mM?usp=sharing

Hi Shinshi,

Unfortunately acces to this folder is denied.. :(

Thank you for your kind efforts.

Gassho, Ryudo
SatToday/LAH
02-11-2018, 12:26 AM
Jundo

Hi Shinshi,

You are more organized than me about daily sitting! I am rather casual when on my own. Each person must find their own style. When on my own, I am more a Rakusu on (with Verse), fluff the Cushion, Bow-turn-Bow, and Sit kinda fella. Other folks like to maintain the formality of sitting in a Zendo during Zazenkai, which is good too.

We are about to cut a film on procedures for the Zendo during a formal Zazenkai. This will be helpful if I forget something.

Thank you, lovely.

Gassho, Jundo

SatTodayLAH
02-11-2018, 04:08 AM
Shinshi

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jundo

Hi Shinshi,

You are more organized than me about daily sitting! I am rather casual when on my own. Each person must find their own style. When on my own, I am more a Rakusu on (with Verse), fluff the Cushion, Bow-turn-Bow, and Sit kinda fella. Other folks like to maintain the formality of sitting in a Zendo during Zazenkai, which is good too.

We are about to cut a film on procedures for the Zendo during a formal Zazenkai. This will be helpful if I forget something.

Thank you, lovely.

Gassho, Jundo

SatTodayLAH

Well, I avoided it for so long I am kind of making up for lost time. :) I really resisted the whole ritual aspect for a long time - but right now I feel it connects me to the lineage. There is a kind of beauty in it that I didn't see before. Like I said in my post, sometimes I just don't have time. But I like to do the whole thing when I can.

Can't wait to see the video.

Gassho, Shinshi

SaT-LaH

Like
02-11-2018, 09:35 AM
Souchi

Thanks for writing this down, Shinshi. I did something similar when I started to attend the meetings of our local sitting group, so it seems that we share the same preference of being structured/organized [smile] It also seems to me that this is one of the possible ways to engage in rituals if you are not the type of person to jump right in. Thoroughly going through them in your mind is the first step to become acquainted with them. (Of course, the next step is to fully engage in them and act them out or otherwise it would be a pure intellectual contact.)

I also enjoy it if I have the time to completely realize the ritual at home, but usually stick to "just sitting" in the way that Jundo mentioned. I guess that is fine as long as you don't rush through things and unmindfully push your stuff around. (Although it can be a nice teaching if everybody does everything in a very formal way and then your teacher suddenly rushes in with a lot of noise, literally throws his Zafu in the corner, and finally comments on the completely confused crowd with a typical zennish quote :)).

Gassho,
Stefan/Souchi

SatToday
02-13-2018, 09:26 PM
Chishou

Okay, here’s my 2 pence.

Do hip stretches.
Bow before altar.
Sit in seiza.
Light candle.
Light insense, hold to forehead say “homage to buddha/dharma/sangha”.
Bow-turn-bow.
Sit.
Bow at end bells.
In gassho, Four vows and verse of atonement
Stand, fluff cushion.
Bow-turn-bow.
3 prostrations.
Extinguish candle.
Hobble away with dead leg.

Chishou.
Sat.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
02-22-2018, 09:57 AM
Ryudo

Hi,
I refer to this thread regularly.
Thank you for all the valuable information.

Please note that the link to Kinhin info in the initial post is not working.

Thank you again.
Gassho
Ryudo
SatToday
05-09-2018, 06:46 PM
Meitou

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chishou

Shane,

Just chant from the heart and it will come with practice. I am learning the Japanese Heart Sutra, I use the chant book and listen to a recording by Zen River Temple in the Netherlands.

Just do, chant badly, but chant from the heart. Feel every word as you say it, the sounds coming out of your are just noise, the heart is what counts.

Bows,
Chishou
座りました

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Hey Chishou, would it be possible to post a link here to the River Temple chant? I'm trying to learn the Japanese too because I like the rhythm of it, being able to listen to a clear recording would be really helpful. I do love the Kissaquo version but tend to get carried away by the emotion instead of paying attention to the words :D
Gassho
Meitou
satwithyoualltoday/lah
05-09-2018, 09:00 PM
Chishou

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...a9e6dcd1e5.jpg

Know that frogs also know the Heart Sutra.

Meitou, I had to buy the Zen River chants from their website. It is 11€ via paypal. They are a little quiet, but good for mini-ceremonies at home.

With a bow,
Chishou
Sat.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
05-10-2018, 12:13 AM
Shinshi

Quote:

Originally Posted by SNPII

Shinshi I am curious as to your reasons for resisting the ritualistic aspects. I am in a similar place and yet open minded for sure!

Shane

Sattoday

Well, it is kind of a long answer but here goes. :)

You have to know two things about me. One I din't come to Zen through religion or belief - I came to Zen through Martial Arts - which led me to Kung Fu - which led me to the Shaolin Temple - which led me to Bodhidharma - which led me to Zen. The other thing is that I was a punk at that same time (well I still am <g>), played punk music, very straight edge - so I was very anti a lot of stuff. :)

The Zen I found on my path I liked. The whole "If you meet the Buddha on the road kill him" - Zen masters as tricksters, and non-linear thinkers, as rule breakers - really appealed to me. But the more I learned the more I realized that there were all the rituals in Zen that seemed very stylized and pointless to me. In fact I wandered away from Zen to a more Vipassana - Mindfulness version of Buddhism.

Probably the best example of my change of view wasn't in Zen so much as the ceremony of marriage. I told my girlfriend at the time that I was never going to get married. Because if you loved someone and wanted to be them you would just be with them. What did a piece of paper have to do with anything. But over time my view started to change.

I came to see marriage in a different light. I came to believe that marriage wasn't so much about the couple. Marriage was a ritual that served an important purpose.

First marriage integrates the couple into the the group that had gone before. It connects them to the experience that they share with their parents, and friends, and culture. It bonds them to a greater whole. Even more marriage allows friends and families to reconnect. And in reconnects them to something sacred, reminding them as to what is important in life. It reconnects them to the values and beliefs that they share in common with their cohort. It is a process that re-bonds people and reminds them who they are and where they come from. It is a great bringing together of old friends and new. It strengthens old bonds and forges new ones. It has an important place in community.

We move from the mundane and reconnect to the sacredness of life.

And that is how I have come to see the Zen rituals as well. It brings us all back together - to a common place. It reconnects us to those the have come before and and integrates us into the flow that is our shared existence. When we do a ritual we never do it alone - even if we are alone - because when go through the ritual we do it with everyone has have ever done it in the past, and everyone who will do it in the future.

And when we engage in ritual it helps to diminish just a bit our strong sense of self, and strengthens our sense of oneness. We are one as we behave as one. And we can move on from there to follow our path, but we start from a place of groundedness and community.

That is how I have come to see it.

Now of course, people can get narrow minded and absorbed in the ritual - and loose that connection to something greater than themselves. Ritual can be trap that becomes all about the ritual and nothing more.

Roshi eddiebear talked about this in his talk last Sunday. My take away was that talked about how Vispassina does away with the ritual but tells you exactly how to evaluate your thoughts when you meditate. Zen has a bunch of ritual but in Zen your mind is free to be. :) Or something to that effect.

His talk s is well worth a listen:

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...ajara-Tenzo%29

Gassho, Shinshi

SaT-LaH
05-10-2018, 12:20 AM
Tai Shi

Yes, very nice recommendations Jundo. AND it's time for me to return to my own home liturgy with gifts of Buddhas, and other alter pieces from family members. I will begin practicing more alone from here on. Thank you.

Tai Shi
sat today/lah
Gassho
05-10-2018, 01:04 AM
Jundo

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shinshi

Roshi eddiebear talked about this in his talk last Sunday. My take away was that talked about how Vispassina does away with the ritual but tells you exactly how to evaluate your thoughts when you meditate. Zen has a bunch of ritual but in Zen your mind is free to be. :) Or something to that effect.

Well, in Zazen, we let thoughts go and let them be without grabbing on, but we also avoid to wallow in excess desires, anger and divisive thinking on or off the cushion. So, not quite complete laissez-faire.

South East Asian Buddhism, which is the actual source of Vipassana, is actually very heavy in ritual, ceremony and many other traditional practices and beliefs, as is much of Asian Buddhism. The step away from Ceremony is pretty much a modernist and Westernizing phenomenon.

Here, at Treeleaf, I take the middle way: We are minimalists on Ceremony, but the one's we do I hope mean something. Blowing out birthday candles, a wedding, a funeral, are all ceremonies which mean something to the heart too.

Sean, this Path is for a lifetime, so don't be in a hurry to stuff many things into the head right away. Better to read a Chant and recite it from all one's heart than to worry too much about memorizing it. Even the most experienced monks use a Chant Book sometimes.

Gassho, J

SatTodayLAH
05-10-2018, 04:35 AM
SNPII

Does anyone have some simple start points on English chants I can start on?

I am an avid user of the insight Timer, but when it comes to the chanting ones some of the sounds are too harsh for me to focus on. I saying this please understand I do like the peaceful guitar sounds some nature and even some of the more Indian/Asian acoustics as well.

Am I making sense here?

Sattoday

Shane
05-10-2018, 06:14 AM
Chishou

Quote:

Originally Posted by SNPII

Does anyone have some simple start points on English chants I can start on?

I am an avid user of the insight Timer, but when it comes to the chanting ones some of the sounds are too harsh for me to focus on. I saying this please understand I do like the peaceful guitar sounds some nature and even some of the more Indian/Asian acoustics as well.

Am I making sense here?

Sattoday

Shane

Shane,

Just focus on getting a regular sitting practice. Start small and on getting your posture comfortable, then gently extend. I started about 2 years ago doing 5 mins, then increased by 5 mines until I do 35mins twice a day.

Only after taking the precepts in January did I get a small altar and start chanting the atonement and 4 vows because it felt natural to do so. 5 months on I’ve added the Japanese robe verse and heart sutra to my morning sit. Again, because the timing felt right.

When I started here at TL, I wanted to bow before I could sit (as apposed to run before walk). I felt a calling to ordain an an priest, but I was still too immature in my practice. Since then, my feelings towards ordination have grown, but I understand it will come with time, patience and practice.

Have you watched Jundo’s series on Buddha Basics? Might be a good place to start.

Chishou,
No sit, just woken up.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
02-11-2019, 08:58 PM
Gero

Just something from a noob on the "bow - turn - bow" part:
To stop myself from going through the motions without any emotions, I made something up to put more meaning into my bows before sitting.

While bowing towards the zafu, my thoughts go along the lines of "Realizing that I can only walk on this Buddha Path thanks to all the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, Teachers and many other beings (yes, including the lady at the supermarket who stacks the shelf so I can get sustenance), I bow in gratitude. To name just one of the many, I say thanks to Manjushri Maha Bodhisattva, whose seat I am about to borrow: Namu Monju Bosatsu."

While bowing away from the zafu, I give something like a mash-up of Metta and the Vows, and as I happen to bow roughly in the direction of a Kannon statue, I say: Namu Daiji Daihi Kyuuku Kanzeonbosatsu.

To keep this really heartfelt and alive, I try not to phrase it exactly the same each time.

Now I am writing about this, it made me think of the bow-turn-bow after sitting: I just came to realize that I usually just get it over and done with. I really should put some meaning into those bows from now on. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to write about it ... seems to help me realizing things. gassho1

Sat today, lah and good night

Gero
02-12-2019, 03:23 AM
Jundo

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gero

Just something from a noob on the "bow - turn - bow" part:
To stop myself from going through the motions without any emotions, I made something up to put more meaning into my bows before sitting.

While bowing towards the zafu, my thoughts go along the lines of "Realizing that I can only walk on this Buddha Path thanks to all the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, Teachers and many other beings (yes, including the lady at the supermarket who stacks the shelf so I can get sustenance), I bow in gratitude. To name just one of the many, I say thanks to Manjushri Maha Bodhisattva, whose seat I am about to borrow: Namu Monju Bosatsu."

While bowing away from the zafu, I give something like a mash-up of Metta and the Vows, and as I happen to bow roughly in the direction of a Kannon statue, I say: Namu Daiji Daihi Kyuuku Kanzeonbosatsu.

To keep this really heartfelt and alive, I try not to phrase it exactly the same each time.

Now I am writing about this, it made me think of the bow-turn-bow after sitting: I just came to realize that I usually just get it over and done with. I really should put some meaning into those bows from now on. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to write about it ... seems to help me realizing things. gassho1

Sat today, lah and good night

Gero

gassho1
02-16-2019, 03:00 AM
Jundo

I have added Ryaku Fusatsu and Tonglen to our recommended 'AT HOME' Liturgy above. gassho1

Gassho, J

STLah
06-11-2019, 03:57 AM
karlmalachut

Hey,

I have been using the Plum Village Chant book what are your thoughts on it?

Gassho,

Karl

St
06-11-2019, 06:13 AM
Jundo

Hi Karl,

They are all translations of Japanese-Chinese-Vietnamese texts, often themselves translations of Sanskrit or other languages, so all just interpretations. Thus, when at Plum Village chant Plum Village, when at Treeleaf chant the Treeleaf way, when home chant the way you like.

Gassho J

SatTodaylah
01-18-2020, 02:22 PM
Bokugan

This thread has been immensely helpful for me.

For one, as a new person to zen practice, I feel like many of the book recommendations I was getting (and discovering on my own) were assuming that foundational knowledge was already there (aside from Zen Mind Beginner's Mind). I placed an order for Bringing the Sacred to Life: The Daily Practice of Zen Ritual this morning. Looking forward to reading that one.

Thank you Judo and others for all of the wonderful advice on "Home Liturgy". gassho2

I appreciate that the idea is to not get bound up in tradition or right/wrong way of doing things. I'm still establishing my daily practice and am finding a lot of inspiration here!

Gassho,
Ryan

Sat
02-19-2020, 06:49 PM
Meian

I'm sitting in the orthodontist office now with Bringing the Sacred to Life - fits easily in my bag and I have sections bookmarked.

As for the liturgy, I've copied and formatted sections of it and printed it for regular use. Basically created my own version based on Treeleaf's resources.

Glad you're finding what works for you. Best wishes to you, Ryan.

Gassho, meian

Sent from my SM-G930U using Tapatalk
02-19-2020, 07:33 PM
Tai Shi

RECOMMENDED 'At Home' Liturgy

For some time I tried to use for home liturgy the Verse of Atonement, at the end, Robe Verse at the beginning. I’m pleased that Jundo suggested something more appropriate for me. I’m not saying b everyone should go to Jundo, but I’m trying what is now working specifically for me.
Also I’m allowing myself to use more comfortable sitting postures fo my Time, and returning to true methods of sitting which ease me into focusing more on my breath.
Tai Shi
sat/ lah

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02-19-2020, 08:54 PM
Bokugan

Quote:

Originally Posted by allwhowander

I'm sitting in the orthodontist office now with Bringing the Sacred to Life - fits easily in my bag and I have sections bookmarked.

As for the liturgy, I've copied and formatted sections of it and printed it for regular use. Basically created my own version based on Treeleaf's resources.

Hello Meian,

I got my copy and deeply enjoyed it. Wonderful writing style and easy to read. I like that idea of crafting a collection of home liturgy for regular use! I find myself looking some things up repeatedly. This is definitely something I would like to do as I learn.

Gassho,

Ryan
Sat Today
02-19-2020, 09:45 PM
Meian

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ryan-S

I like that idea of crafting a collection of home liturgy for regular use! I find myself looking some things up repeatedly. This is definitely something I would like to do as I learn.

that's something i started doing a few years ago. started creating folders to bookmark threads. then started saving certain sections as PDFs or Word docs, then collected into folders on my computer. then took an old binder and printed out some files that I found myself opening repeatedly and started creating a reference for myself to use with Treeleaf ceremonies and for my own practice. that evolved to printouts of verses to stick in my bag for when i'm waiting somewhere -- then that project began.

good thing my browsers and computer are better organized than my brain is! :D

so i have a mini-library that is always expanding and changing of Treeleaf stuff that i just adapt and add to over time. parts of it are always with me -- often in my pocket or my bag, and the big stuff (like chant books) in my binder. i also have a slowly-expanding (and far behind) library of books, verses and writings that members here have authored (and are/will) -- I follow all of these things.

that's just me, though. best wishes on your exploring and your learning!

gassho, meian
st lh
02-26-2020, 07:20 PM
Tai Shi

For me coming to Zen has been in bits and pieces until I met Jon Kobot-Zinn, and his Tibetan symbol like bells. I own a pair of such bells inspired by him and the low price on Amazon. Thereafter my daughter began sending me items for an alter, and my wife bought me items for the same purpose. Along the way I purchased a Buddhist chair cushion, which I still use, and I began using an antique coffee table of etched plywood, and oak edging, the coffee table my father hand-built for my mother when they were new in their marriage. Long before my dad and step-mom married, the table came to me, and four years ago, when I began to practice meditation on my own, before instruction in zazen. the table, only slightly damaged, to a beautiful altetr, with chair and cushion, serene statues of both Buddha, and Christ, and electric candles all over the table, beautiful bell my daughter had sent me from Japan, and many trinkets, one from Jundo, a gift with the Heart Sutra in Japanese on it, and almost all gifts from daughter and wife. My alter has for me great meaning, with many pieces from Japan. I sit most days before my alter, left shoulder propped against southeastern wall to support sagging spine and body. There I practice zazen. My question is, what is the place of music, specifically western classical music, in sitting, or is it ever possible?
Taishi
Gassho/lah
sat
02-26-2020, 07:51 PM
Kokuu

Quote:

My question is, what is the place of music, specifically western classical music, in sitting, or is it ever possible?

Hi Tai Shi

Listening to music is a wonderful thing, and can be done in a meditative way, contemplating each note and the entire piece as it unfolds.

However, in Shikantaza, we just sit with what is without adding anything. So, no music.

Gassho
Kokuu
-sattoday/lah-
03-15-2020, 04:37 PM
Tai Shi

Although Jundo states sitting anywhere happens, and with medical or painful procedures I breath in a meditative way, I don't believe this is zazen. I generally sit in a quiet place in our home. Occasionally I sit zazen in a waiting room, or will attempt so. This is not always successful.
Tai Shi
sat/ lah
Gassho
03-15-2020, 05:02 PM
Jundo

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tai Shi

Although Jundo states sitting anywhere happens, and with medical or painful procedures I breath in a meditative way, I don't believe this is zazen. I generally sit in a quiet place in our home. Occasionally I sit zazen in a waiting room, or will attempt so. This is not always successful.
Tai Shi
sat/ lah
Gassho

If you do your best to sit in equanimity and non-judgement, focusing on the breath ... even though, at that same moment you might not actually be feeling much equanimity, be feeling lousy and think it is a bad deal too ... then it is pretty much Zazen.

Gassho, J

STLah
03-15-2020, 07:44 PM
Tai Shi

Thank you Jundo Roshi
Tai Shi
sat/lah
Gassho

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03-16-2020, 12:14 AM
Tai Shi

My home liturgy is very simple. Serenity prayer. Count breath 1 to 10 back to 1 then do this 20 or 30 min. Then say a Christian prayer. That’s it, be grateful. Rise from chair or just Gassho while sitting your done.
Tai Shi
sat/ lah
Gassho

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06-16-2021, 02:45 PM
Gareth

The book by John Daido Loori Roshi is very nice, I have enjoyed it so far. I already appreciated the aspects of liturgy that help my consistency through the day, but the section on dharanis has been illuminating. I am still not sure that the universe benefits from hearing me chant...

Gassho,
Gareth

Sat today
12-23-2021, 06:23 PM
Gregor

Thank you. I had wanted to ask on what I could do to deepen my practice.

The Ryaku Fusatsu ceromony this week was very touching.

I will be ordering the reccomended books with the intention of bringing sacredness to life in my everyday.

Gassho,

Greg
STLAH

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05-11-2022, 03:01 PM
michaelw

Is there a recomended bpm for chanting?
I want to start chanting rather than just reading off the page.
I can use a metronome to count the beats that way I can be up to speed
when I get a chance to sit with others.

gassho
M
sat
05-11-2022, 03:21 PM
Jundo

Quote:

Originally Posted by michaelw

Is there a recomended bpm for chanting?
I want to start chanting rather than just reading off the page.
I can use a metronome to count the beats that way I can be up to speed
when I get a chance to sit with others.

gassho
M
sat

Hmmm. I am not the musicologist around here, but I might suggest just to listen to the Ceremony during any of our weekly and monthly Treeleaf Zazenkai, such as this one ...

https://www.treeleaf.org/forums/show...of-Non-duality

... and just to copy the beat. I feel it is okay if it is a little faster or slower, as even different Sangha or Chanters tend to vary a bit.

Gassho, Jundo
05-11-2022, 05:41 PM
Shōnin Risa Bear

1 Attachment(s)

Current "morning service" at the hut. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O5Y...ew?usp=sharing

Rotates Genjokoan, Sandokai, Jewel Mirror, Fukanzazengi as the long chant.

Attachment 7620

gassho
ds sat, some lah
05-11-2022, 08:50 PM
Bion

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shōnin Risa Bear

Current "morning service" at the hut. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O5Y...ew?usp=sharing

Rotates Genjokoan, Sandokai, Jewel Mirror, Fukanzazengi as the long chant.

Attachment 7620

gassho
ds sat, some lah

I sooooo love the hut! And I’m especially fond of its dweller! [emoji3526]

[emoji1374] Sat Today
05-11-2022, 08:56 PM
Bion

Quote:

Originally Posted by michaelw

Is there a recomended bpm for chanting?
I want to start chanting rather than just reading off the page.
I can use a metronome to count the beats that way I can be up to speed
when I get a chance to sit with others.

gassho
M
sat

I am a chanter and I have to say, I like to start it off quite slow and steady, just to harmonize breath and sound and be mindful about each syllable and I like my chanting to be powerful and uniform. Certain chants, like the Heart Sutra, actually gain speed as we do them so we start with one tempo and end up faster! I say, follow your breath and body and completely pour yourself into every sound, syllable and knock. Like Jundo said, It does help to observe ceremonies and learn from there first. [emoji3526]

[emoji1374] Sat Today
05-13-2022, 01:26 PM
michaelw

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bion

I am a chanter and I have to say, I like to start it off quite slow and steady, just to harmonize breath and sound and be mindful about each syllable and I like my chanting to be powerful and uniform. Certain chants, like the Heart Sutra, actually gain speed as we do them so we start with one tempo and end up faster! I say, follow your breath and body and completely pour yourself into every sound, syllable and knock. Like Jundo said, It does help to observe ceremonies and learn from there first. [emoji3526]

[emoji1374] Sat Today

Bion

Thanks for your reply.
I overlooked the change in tempo.
I have never found a metronome that could keep time anyway - (humour).

Thinking back to my choir days we were encouraged to 'breath the Psalms not sing them at the top of your voice'.
I will try that as I work with the chants book.

gassho
M
05-15-2022, 05:02 AM
Rowan

On Kinhin - Bernie Glassman Roshi, when he first started, asked about the practice of kinhin. The roshi referred the question to his attendant student (who was Taizan Maezumi) who said "when we walk, we just walk". As for the gear and sounds and gestures and words - for some people these can be a comfort and a support, a peaceful place in an often chaotic and even frightening world, and comfort and support matter, because feelings matter. PS - I had a VERY stresssful task and found myself firmly chanting the four vows al the way through it - it definitely got me through this.

rowan/jinho
ST / LAH
02-06-2023, 02:14 PM
Seiko

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jundo

'Liturgy' means the many acts and rituals by which we manifest (and are manifested by) the beliefs and teachings at the heart of Buddhist Practice.

On the ZPO course, lately the teachers have been encouraging us to adopt "The Gate of Sweet Nectar" liturgy. I know this is not traditional and not something we do at Treeleaf, but perhaps I will include it in my home practice. Maybe a simple version rather than the whole ceremony. Is that ok?

Gasshō
Seiko
stlah
02-06-2023, 03:02 PM
Jundo

Quote:

Originally Posted by Seiko

On the ZPO course, lately the teachers have been encouraging us to adopt "The Gate of Sweet Nectar" liturgy. I know this is not traditional and not something we do at Treeleaf, but perhaps I will include it in my home practice. Maybe a simple version rather than the whole ceremony. Is that ok?

Gasshō
Seiko
stlah

If it resonates with you, in your own home, please do. I know that Bernie Glassman was into that.

Gassho, Jundo

stlah
02-06-2023, 08:35 PM
Shinshi

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jundo

If it resonates with you, in your own home, please do. I know that Bernie Glassman was into that.

Gassho, Jundo

stlah

If I recall correctly they also recite it at Upaya during their version of the New Moon ceremony.

Gassho, Shinshi

SaT-LaH
02-06-2023, 09:19 PM
Bion

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shinshi

If I recall correctly they also recite it at Upaya during their version of the New Moon ceremony.

Gassho, Shinshi

SaT-LaH

It’s definitely also part of the short version of the Soto Scriptures for Daily Practice and Upaya have a chant book for it as well. [emoji1]

[emoji1374] Sat today
02-06-2023, 10:03 PM
aprapti

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bion

It’s definitely also part of the short version of the Soto Scriptures for Daily Practice and Upaya have a chant book for it as well. [emoji1]

[emoji1374] Sat today

and this is on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlZCOLc7TcA (Upaya and Bernie Glassman)

gassho1 aprapti

sat
02-07-2023, 12:57 AM
Jundo

Here is why we will not chant "The Gate of Sweet Nectar" within Treeleaf, however ...

One aspect that I can appreciate about Bernie Glassman's version is this: He changed the focus from feeding the 'Hungry Ghosts' who are other-worldly beings, literal "ghosts," often family Ancestors, who are suffering in a kind of other-worldly purgatory after death due to their insatiable desires ...

... to feeding the hungry, poor and homeless in this world, building a Pure Land on earth, although he subtly rephrased the ceremony to speak of all the hungry everywhere. That is something which resonates more in my heart, frankly.

The official translation in English by Soto-shu reads:

Quote:

Giving rise to the thought of awakening, we present a vessel of pure food, offering it to all the hungry ghosts in every country of the innumerable lands in the dharma realm throughout all space in the ten directions. Please come and gather here, you departed long ago, and all spirits, from earth gods of mountains and rivers to demons and wraiths of barren wastes. Taking pity on you all, with this food we feed you now. ... We also pray that your bodies, conveyed by this dharani-food, may leave suffering behind and gain liberation; that you may attain the joy of birth in heavens; that you may, in accordance with your wishes, be delivered to one of the pure lands in the ten directions ... with the prayer that together with all sentient beings we may quickly attain buddhahood and not seek any other rewards.

Bernie changed the words quite a bit, avoiding the overt references to rebirth in other realms, wraiths and spirits:

Quote:

Raising the Bodhi Mind, the supreme meal is offered to all the hungry spirits throughout space and time, filling the smallest particle to the largest space. All you hungry spirits in the ten directions, please gather here. Sharing your distress, I offer you this food, hoping it will resolve your thirsts and hungers. I pray that all who receive this offering will return its merits to all Buddhas and to all creations throughout space and time, in this way they will be thoroughly satisfied. I further pray that in receiving this meal all your sufferings will be eliminated, and that you will be liberated, so that being joyously reborn you will play freely in the fields of the Pure Land. Raising the Bodhi Mind and practicing the Enlightened Way, you become the future Buddhas without any further regress.

HOWEVER ... from that point, the ceremony is then filled with about a dozen magical Dharani to help accomplish the task, naked sounds said to have power akin to "abra-cadabra," which I will avoid around this Sangha. No hocus-pocus "open sesame" on my watch! [wave]

Here is just one, accompanied by clashing symbols and blowing conch shell horns:

Quote:

Dharani for Inviting the Cloudlike Hosts of Spirits (Unshū kijin chōshō darani 雲集鬼神招請陀羅尼）
[Chinese, chant 3 times]
◎ No bo bohori gyari tari ▲3 tatā gyataya.

It is literally "hocus-pocus" nonsense, a potion and incantation.

This is why we will not do this Ceremony here.

I am all for a Ceremony of care for the hungry, poor and homeless.

However, we will not chant "ugga chaka ugga chaka" and "Salagadoola mechicka boola bibbidi-bobbidi-boo" in order to realize that goal.

Do as you wish in the privacy of of your own home, chant "ding a lingo ling" or "molar manifestus" to summon the tooth fairy if you want in your own bedroom, but we do not do so at Treeleaf.

Not in these Halls! Not on my watch!

:encouragement:

Gassho, J

PS - I have added the above to the "About the Dharani we DON'T chant at Treeleaf" thread (LINK) that is part of our "About our Treeleaf Chants" series (LINK).
02-08-2023, 12:31 AM
Shinshi

Thank you Jundo, that makes perfect sense.

Gassho, Shinshi

SaT-LaH
06-12-2023, 11:04 PM
Ankai

My at home stuff...

My own at home liturgy, which I really just think of more as my morning affirmations, remains rather basic..

In the morning, before Zazen,

- until enlightenment I take refuge in the Buddha and the Dharma and the Sangha. (3x)

- a modified form of the "four immeasurables;"
"May all be healthy, may all be prosperous, may all be well.
May all be present without past regret or future worry.
May all dwell in constant appreciation, which is the source of great joy and contentment.
May all know their true nature, and the true nature of reality, which is Awakening."

-From Shantideva's, "Way of the Bodhisattva,"

"For as long as space endures and as long as living beings remain, until then, May I too abide, to dispel the misery of the world."

In the evening, following my nightly meditation, I recite the verse of atonement and the four vows.

Sat today.
-Karl
08-30-2023, 08:49 AM
DGF

Thank you Jundo,

For the clear reminder

Gassho
Diana
Satlah
11-12-2023, 08:45 AM
Seiga

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/202...562709769a.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/202...defe062669.jpg

Gasshō,
dear Friends,

as for the house altar: this is part of my setup that I put together during the corona pandemic.

Gasshō,
Seiga
stlah
11-12-2023, 10:29 AM
Jundo

Quote:

Originally Posted by Seiga

as for the house altar: this is part of my setup that I put together during the corona pandemic.

Gasshō,
Seiga
stlah

Lovely. gassho2

The calligraphy on the left says "Namu (Hail) Shakyamuni Butsu (Buddha)."

The picture on the right features Shakyamuni Buddha, with Master Keizan on the left and Master Dogen on the right, the two traditional founders of Soto Zen in Japan.

Gassho, J

stlah
03-16-2024, 04:32 AM
mdonnoe

I tried to download the Treeleaf Chant book (linked from the first entry here on page one), and it says it's "in the owner's trash" on Google drive. Is another copy available elsewhere?

Gassho,
Michael
Sat/Lah
03-16-2024, 07:26 AM
Kotei

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdonnoe

I tried to download the Treeleaf Chant book (linked from the first entry here on page one), and it says it's "in the owner's trash" on Google drive. Is another copy available elsewhere?

Thank you Michael,
I updated the link to the most recent Chant book, which is this one: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dAL...nWIgpLJTz/view

Gassho,
Kotei sat/lah today.