“Why are you seeking liberation outside of yourself?” – Jianzhi
We all can feel bound up sometimes. And for good reason, depending on the life circumstances we find ourselves in. Over time and with practice, Koshin Sensei encourages us, we can learn to avail ourselves of the freedom and clarity that are always available to us. Within a supportive community, invite yourself to “Set down what you are worried about and just show up in each moment.”
In this dharma talk, Koshin begins with a moving reflection on the value of tears. “Moments of weeping help to clarify what is most important to us.” His talk continues with an exploration of an ongoing study of Soto Zen’s Chinese ancestors. We learn how Daoxin, who lived during the 7th Century, is not so different from us today. Caught up in his own stuff and clamoring to find someone to give him all the answers, Daoxin is tenderly and pointedly questioned by his teacher, Jianzhi. Their intimate exchange as teacher and student is another example of how this practice is about community and relationship. In one moment, we are bound up and in the next we are clear. We lose our way only to find it again in the next breath. This awakening way, Koshin reminds us, must be practiced with great tenderness toward ourselves and with one another. Near the end of this talk, Koshin reads Keizan’s poetic tribute to the exchange between Daoxin and Jianzhi.
“Mind is empty, and our knowing contains no right or wrong.
In this, what is there to be bound or liberated?”
ZENTALK NOTES
Koshin Paley Ellison Sensei is a Zen teacher, Jungian psychotherapist, leader in contemplative care, and co-founder of an educational non-profit called the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care. His books, grounded in Buddhist wisdom and practice, have gained national attention. Through its numerous educational programs, contemplative retreats, and Soto Zen Buddhist practices, the New York Zen Center touches thousands of lives every year.
MUSIC
Heart Sutra by Kanho Yakushiji – Buddhist priest and musician of the Rinzai sect and Imaji temple in Imabari, Japan. In 2003, he formed “KISSAQUO”, a songwriting duo based in Kyoto.
NYZC PUBLICATIONS
- Untangled here: https://bit.ly/untangled-book
- Wholehearted: Slow Down, Help Out, Wake Up here: https://amzn.to/2JTKF1t
- Awake At The Bedside here: https://amzn.to/3aijXdL
CONNECT WITH US
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