Question

Dear Master Kosen,

My knowledge of Buddhism isn't big. It consists of reading a few web pages. These include Master Deshimaru's questions and answers and your questions and answers. When I read some of the answers I get a feeling through my body which I feel is true. Basically I have a few questions, and if you would answer them I would be most grateful.

1) It seems as if you regard the practise of zazen at home a path for someone who is selfish and looking to self-gain. Does this also include practising zazen without a master present? Also, is it possible that this isn't true, for example, the first Buddha under the tree was by himself? Instead of zazen at home, is there something else that one can do? Where is it safe to practise zazen?

2) I would like to read a few books on life and was wondering if these two are a good place to start: An Open Heart - Dalao Lama. / The Little Book of Wisdom - Dalao Lama. Thanks and Regards James Parnis







Answer from Master Kosen

It's better to practise with others! Master Deshimaru taught me this way!!! The Shobogenzo by zen Master Dogen or the books of Master Deshimaru are good.

Mondo On the same theme : Practice

Summer camp

I've been practising zazen irregularly, and not lately, anyway.Do you think that attending an eight day session without being much prepared is realistic?I'm afraid I would feel like a stranger, even bother, because I would not know the protocol, the etiquette, the good manners, in a way. . .I've read the testimony of a practitioner ...

Why do some practice zazen, while others don't?

I cannot understand why I've been drawn to zazen, 10 years ago, whereas my friends or my relatives are in no way interested in the practice. . . What drives people to sit in zazen and think it's only evident and natural, whereas others don't give a damn about it? Are they already awakened?
...

Loneliness

I've started a spiritual quest years ago and I realize that I've progressively departed from everything and everybody. Though my practice brought me deeper understanding, I do not feel as connected to life and to others. What should I do?
...

Motivation

Master Kosen, Some people have an innate motivation and need little effort to practice, while for others, it is just the other way round. How can one develop a strong motivation? Thanks.
...

London

Hi there, bonjour... I practise my sitting twice/thrice a day.Love the sit. Best thing in my life. Go to a small group once a week too, part of white plum org. No probs with that. was wondering though if you guys were ever considering setting up a branch of your sangha in London?
...




To know more about mondo

You may want to see other themes of this mondo online, or ask your own question : see Mondo online : questions to zen Master Kosen Thibaut

Subscribe to our YouTube channel


Zen meditation : retreats

Next sesshin : from 13 April 2024 to 14 April 2024 - Information and registration to this zen retreat

Sesshin of Saint Céré 2024 : Zazen the méditation Zen, Zen Dojo of St Céré


During seventy years my sins Filled up the entire universe I brought this body up to the highest It goes now back down to hell Oh! I have nothing to say About life and death.

Nyojo

Donate to the Sangha

Let's help the Kosen Sangha and the Yujo Nyusanji zen temple


Mondo

Questions to zen Master Kosen

Boddidharma, buddhist monk

Master Kosen

Follow his teachings in the Montpellier Zen dojo and in the great sesshins at Yujo Nyusanji zen temple


Kusens

Listen to and download last teachings (in french) of Master Kosen in Montpellier's dojo