Question
Hello, Master,
I have been practicing zazen for a little while; I am a beginner.
But I have fallen in love with one of the Zen monks at the dojo. I have noticed he is not indifferent to me, but I would like to know whether I risk putting him in a difficult situation. In Catholicism, monks take a vow of chastity; do Zen monks do the same?
If so, I will work on myself to extinguish my feelings.
It is a matter of conscience, ethics, and respect.
Thank you in advance for your answer, Master.
Have a good day.
Christine
MinuitestLumiere
Answer from Master Kosen
Know, dear Christine, that modern monks' lives take place within secular society.
Yes, times change, and religions must adapt to remain useful to their societies.
Personally, I favor those who have asked to receive monk ordination also having their human experiences.
They must manage their social lives while continuing practice. That is Deshimaru's true Zen.
Kosen