This is a collection of talks which more or less fall in the category of “explaining Zen Buddhist forms and ceremonies.” These talks were given at different times.

Buddha’s Birthday

Katagiri Roshi discusses the Buddha’s Birthday ceremony, including why we pour tea over the statue of the baby Buddha, why according to legend the baby Buddha took seven steps, and the real meaning of his declaration, “I alone am the honored one in heaven and on earth.”

Verse of Opening the Sutra

Katagiri Roshi explains the deep meaning of the Verse of Opening the Sutra, which is usually chanted before a dharma talk. He connects the Verse to related passages from the Lotus Sutra and the Samadhi Sutra, and also draws a connection with the psychologist Alice Miller.

Probable future inclusions:

  • Gatha of Closing the Sutra
  • Verse of Offering Incense
  • Bowing
  • Westerners’ Reluctance Toward Bowing
  • Obon Memorial
  • Chanting Practice