Zen – Religion of Everyday Life
Many people are completely alienated from their everyday activities. They are bored, they function, they feel functional, and often overwhelmed. They begin to long for a fulfilling, righteous, and happy life.
From the experience of zazen, the source of our life, however, we understand that life is meant to be lived “here and now,” regardless of what is happening or what we are doing. Simply doing what we are doing wholeheartedly, whether it is “cleaning the toilet” or “chairing an important business meeting.” Doing the everyday things of life in complete unity of body and mind.
“If we don’t find peace in our busy daily lives, we will never find peace anywhere!” Shohaku Okumura
Awakening to impermanence, to Buddha nature, and to unity with all forms of existence gives us the strength, stability, and energy to live our lives freshly and freely. At the same time, it shows us that this life can only succeed and be meaningful in harmony with and respect for nature and all its living beings.
Samu practice – Working for the community
In Sanko-an, this can involve everyday tasks such as cleaning, cooking, shoveling snow, and renovations. In addition, there is a great deal to do to keep the dojo running: accounting, waste disposal, shopping, organizing events, advertising, maintaining the website, and much more.
Mushutoku – The crucial thing is not only to do this activity for others, but to live each activity entirely and for itself, not limiting it to a means to achieve something else.
“Only I can do this activity, because others are others…” K. Sawaki
Practicing the spirit of zazen (meditation) in all the actions of our lives (thinking, talking, cleaning, sex, sleeping, etc.) becomes a state of mind that shapes and permeates our entire lives. The practice and liberation and/or happiness are equated.