Zen Community of Oregon Dharma Talks Ferocious Kindness - Maezumi Roshi's Teaching — Ancestors Sesshin
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Dec 31, 2015 
Jan Chozen Bays-Roshi, a Zen teacher and author trained at the Zen Center of Los Angeles, shares insights from her training under Maezumi Roshi. She discusses the evolution of Zen practices from harsh training methods to contemporary approaches, emphasizing personal anecdotes that highlight the challenges on the journey to enlightenment. The conversation explores the significance of koan practice and living in the present moment, while reflecting on the powerful vows and teachings that guide Zen practitioners toward transformation and deeper understanding.
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Ferocious Kiyosaku Training
- At Rohatsu, Kapila Roshi suffered repeated strikes with the kiyosaku on his shoulders until bruised and swollen.
- Monks suspected padding but he proved the injury was real, showing intense training discipline.
Avoid Harsh Training Tactics
- Avoid ferocious training methods like yelling and hitting in Western Zen practice.
- Such harshness can provoke the inner critic and discourage practitioners today.
Basic Meditation Instructions
- Sit facing the wall with cross legs, preferably full lotus if possible.
- Count breaths to ten repeatedly and don't move until the bell rings; simple meditation instruction.