Upaya Zen Center's Dharma Podcast cover image

Upaya Zen Center's Dharma Podcast

Dharma Plants and Seeds of Service: Rohatsu 2024 (6 of 6)

Dec 15, 2024
Kaz Tanahashi, a compassionate activist and teacher, joins Genzan Kennell, who focuses on spiritual practice, for a profound discussion. They reflect on the teachings of Roshi Joan Halifax, emphasizing how wisdom and compassion can transform daily life. The conversation explores the importance of collective Zen practice and the initiatives at Upaya Zen Center that address suffering. They encourage listeners to embrace each moment fully, highlighting the role of mindfulness in fostering deep connections and supporting each other on the spiritual path.
41:43

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The podcast highlights the importance of integrating wisdom and compassion in daily spiritual practice, as exemplified by Roshi Joan's impactful initiatives.
  • Senseis Kaz and Genzan emphasize the collective nature of Zen practice, urging participants to seize and fully engage in shared meditation experiences.

Deep dives

Understanding Bodhisattva and Compassion

The concept of Bodhisattva is central to the discussion, highlighting the definition of a Bodhisattva as someone who helps others achieve awakening. This involves not only the aspiration to become a Buddha but also taking action to aid others in their journey out of suffering. The speakers emphasize that compassion is a human endeavor, which requires tools and models, such as Avalokiteshvara, to enhance our ability to be compassionate. The example of the captured general who was spared from execution through the recitation of the sutra illustrates the transformative power of compassion and the importance of these practices in fostering longer, more meaningful lives.

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