Kaz Tanahashi & Shinzan Palma: Rohatsu: Green Dharma (Part 2 of 6)

On day two of 2022 Rohatsu sesshin, Sensei Kaz Tanahashi  talks about the practice of meditation and working meditation, highlighting the importance of unity and connection. He touches on the chanting of the Heart Sutra, and its significance in conveying the practice and meaning of Zen. He then delves into the historical context of the Avatamsaka Sutra and its concept of the Universal Deity, emphasizing the interconnectedness and equality of all things and concludes with the relevance of these teachings to ecological awareness and the value of seeing the worth in every small thing. Sensei Shinzan Palma reflects on his experience at Rohatsu, emphasizing the shift from a goal-oriented approach to Zen practice towards celebrating the present moment. He discusses the Avatamsaka Sutra and its teachings on interconnectedness, stressing the importance of practicing in relationship with oneself and others. He connects these teachings to environmental issues, suggesting that taking care of each other is essential for saving the planet and concludes with a call to manifest the practice beyond the cushion, especially in relationships, and encourages appreciation of nature’s impact on our well-being.