This is the translation recited in OBC temples and at affiliated meditation groups, in the booklet Scriptures and Ceremonies. Why are training and enlightenment differentiated since the Truth is universal? Why study the means of attaining it since the supreme … Continue reading →
I first met the words of Fukanzazengi, or Rules for Meditation while reading them aloud, along with other people, all of whom were strangers, the first Saturday afternoon of my first retreat at Shasta Abbey. Meditation halls, monks with shaven heads, … Continue reading →
This article is based on a lecture I gave at Shasta Abbey in August 2012 as part of a week-long retreat. This lecture was based on An Outline of Practice by Bodhidharma. This describes four practices that encompass all of … Continue reading →
This is a slightly revised version of a short talk given to Faithshare, an informal termly interfaith gathering of students, staff and religious representatives, at Lancaster University. A member from each faith tradition was invited to make a short contribution … Continue reading →
Whilst sitting quietly by the fire and contemplating the common room statue of Lord Jizō, these assorted reflections arose into my mind and I offer them now in memory of my master, Reverend Master Jiyu-Kennett, who died 18 years ago … Continue reading →
In our weekly meditation group we recite Dōgen’s, Rules for Meditation. In this there is a phrase which I have thought about and reflected on quite intently. The phrase is the one where reciters are exhorted to “cease from erudition”. … Continue reading →
It is good to cultivate gratitude, an innate aspect of Buddha Nature. Cultivation doesn’t create gratitude, but rather uncovers the gratitude that is already present. Gratitude goes beyond dark and light, beyond yes and no, beyond getting our way or … Continue reading →
I was talking to someone recently who was feeling depressed about the value of their life. Having cancer that seemed like it may spread brought a review of “What is it all for?” The question of meaning—whether this life has … Continue reading →
Since we chanted the Avalokiteshwara scripture for our Transfer of Merit Ceremony this morning, I thought I’d talk about Great Compassion. I draw my inspiration from a passage in the Avatamsaka Scripture, in English, the Flower Ornament or Flower Garland … Continue reading →
This article talks about the problem of ‘busyness’, and came about through discussions with the Huddersfield and Leeds meditation groups and members of the www.brightmoon.org forum.
Continue reading →