Upaya Zen Center's Dharma Podcast

In this fourth session of Upaya’s Dogen Seminar, Sensei Jiryu explores the profound paradox at the heart of Zen practice: the essential teaching of non-separation. He highlights the famous line, “The great way […]

In this third session of Upaya’s Dogen Seminar, renowned poet, translator, and peace activist Sensei Kazuaki Tanahashi presents his analysis of paradox in Dogen’s writings, drawing from his monumental 33-year translation project of […]

In this second session of the Dogen Seminar, distinguished scholar Dr. Steven Heine explores the profound role of paradox in Zen Buddhism, examining how these seemingly contradictory teachings serve as liberating devices rather […]

In this opening session of Upaya’s Dogen Seminar, program faculty introduce themselves and reflect on themes and paradoxes within Dogen’s teachings they will be sharing over the weekend. Roshi Joan Halifax presented Dogen’s […]

In this Wednesday Night Dharma Talk, resident priest Senko Perez reflects on the common trap of imagining that true practice lies elsewhere—in quieter places, calmer minds, or better circumstances. During a recent solo […]

In this session of Awareness in Action and speaking from her farm in Alexandria, Louisiana—unexpectedly located at the center of America’s deportation operations—dharma teacher and social justice activist Konda Mason explores the powerful connection […]

Dive into the profound teaching of Kanno Doko—where responsive communion meets personal experience. Sensei Monshin encourages listeners to quiet their minds and examine their true feelings. Explore the beauty of tranquility in nature and how it fosters deep connections. Reflect on the call-and-response dynamic of spiritual grace and the importance of embracing emptiness to understand our interconnectedness. This thought-provoking journey invites you to engage mindfully with the world around you.

Discover the profound connection between silent illumination and the art of just sitting in Zen practice. The conversation traces ancient roots back to Zen patriarch Hongzhi and emphasizes Dogen's significant contributions. Explore how these practices cultivate mindfulness and present-moment awareness. Guo Gu highlights the importance of bodily awareness, inviting listeners to deepen their spiritual journey and connection to living fully in the present.

In this conversation, Jiryu Rachman, Co-abbot of the San Francisco Zen Center, dives deep into the essence of Zen practice—becoming truly ourselves. He shares insights from Suzuki Roshi and other Zen masters, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and letting go of attachments. Personal anecdotes highlight the delicate balance between individuality and community, while exploring how embracing our true selves fosters deeper connections. Jiryu also touches on the integration of ethics in practice, grounding listeners in compassion and interconnectedness.

In this engaging discussion, Genzan Kennell, a Sensei at Upaya Zen Center, blends the teachings of Zen masters Dogen and Ryokan with modern Butoh dance. He reflects on the poetic wisdom found in Ryokan's life and how it can serve as a choreography for Zen practice. Genzan shares personal connections to Ryokan’s poetry, emphasizing themes of solitude and mindful communication. He highlights Dogen's teachings on simplicity and stillness, urging listeners to embrace non-doing amidst chaos. Overall, the conversation is a rich exploration of art, compassion, and the essence of true Dharma.