Tuesday, April 22, 2025

On Dōgen’s “Instructions for the Cook” (w/ Bosco Farr) Dōgen Zenji (1200-1253) is perhaps the most recognized Japanese Buddhist monk in the West for a number of reasons. After venturing to China in his youth, Dōgen returned to transmit Sōtō Zen (Ch. Caodong). which eventually became one of the most influential schools of Japanese Buddhism during the medieval period. In something of a “back to basics” campaign, Dōgen promoted the practice of zazen (seated meditation) and strict adherence to the monastic precepts through his exceptional literary works such as the Fukanzazengi, the Genjōkōan, and the Shōbōgenzō (Treasury of the True Dharma Eye). Among his more accessible writings is the Tenzo Kyōkun, “Instructions for the Cook,” part of a larger collection on monastic rules for purity.   In his “Instructions for the Cook,” Dōgen breaks down the tasks and methods that every monastic Head Cook should follow. These “instructions,” however, are not what make this text one of Dōgen’s most well-regarded works. Rather, it is the treasure trove of insights that anyone—monk and layperson alike—can apply both on and off the cushion. “Instructions for the Cook are instructions for life,” as one contemporary Zen master puts it. This week, Bosco Farr, a longtime practitioner of Zen, will share some of the wisdom he has garnered from this captivating text. For those interested, here is a LINK to the actual text.

Schedule (Tues., April 15) 6:30-6:35: Announcements 6:35-7:05: Sitting Meditation 7:05-7:15: Walking Meditation (kinhin) 7:15-8:00: Dōgen’s “Instructions for the Cook” (Bosco Farr)

Upcoming Schedule
Sunday, April 27: Half-Day Retreat (see details below)
April 29: Practicing with Rob Burbea’s Seeing That Frees (Mark Rabil)
May 6: How to Read a Sutta–Pt. I (Jay Ford)
May 13: How to Read a Sutta–Pt. II (Jay Ford)
May 20: On the Paramitas (Perfections) (Joanna Kelly)
May 27: Mindfulness in Nature (Marc Farrow)

WSDC Half-Day Retreat Sunday, April 27 (9:00 AM to 1:00 PM)
We are pleased to offer a half-day retreat to all members of the WSDC Sangha, on Sunday April 27, 2025, from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM. This will be at the home of Ann McCarty and Bo Fried.

By meeting together for an extended period, we can take the time to investigate our minds and bodies. It is an opportunity to practice mindfulness with a group of people who also have an interest in waking up to the present moment and deepening the practice to be with things just as they are.

Please email Ann (annmccarty@gmail.com) if you intend to participate or with any questions. After registering (by saying you will attend), you will be sent directions, the schedule, and further details.