Dharma teachings refer to dialogues, speeches, and collections of texts or videos that are rooted in the Zen tradition of the Kwan Um School of Zen. These teachings guide individuals towards truth, compassion and liberation. They are not just abstract ideas, but a practical roadmap for living with wisdom, balance and purpose.

Stamps for groceries by Zen Master Hyon Ja

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Meditation is described in multitude of ways. All different kinds of formulas and methods exist for reaching “perfection” or “waking up” to our “inner freedom”.  Some of these methods are called Zen-Korean Zen, Japanese Zen, Chinese…

Precepts Revisited by Zen Master Hyon Ja

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Recently Arne Schaefer JDPSN and I officiated a precepts ceremony in Helsinki, Finland. Two wonderful people—Julia and Harri—took the five precepts. They prepared a beautiful environment, invited friends, and offered delicious food. The…

How Old Are You, Really?

Old Age These two words, old age, carry a lot of weight of meaning, assumptions, and sometimes a lot of fear. When people ask us how old we are, we usually won't say, "Why are you making me old?” In most societies, birthdays are cherished…

Jan Sendzimir JDPSN: Facing the Ghosts that We Create

DHARMA TALK INTRODUCTION PALMA DE MALLORCA, SPAIN 23 NOVEMBER 2023   Facing the Ghosts that We Create by Jan Sendzimir JDPSN   Many of us feel quite threatened by large events that loom over us. Will AI take away…

Ten Gates, The Kong-an Teaching of Zen Master Seung Sahn

Ten Gates, by Zen Master Seung Sahn, is a concise and illuminating introduction to Zen practice, structured around ten traditional koans (kong-ans). These gates act as challenges or thresholds that enable students to deepen their understanding…

Only Don’t Know: Selected Teaching Letters of Zen Master Seung Sahn

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"Only Don't Know" is one of Zen Master Seung Sahn's most central teachings — a phrase that encapsulates the essence of his approach to Zen practice. Rather than chasing intellectual understanding or clinging to fixed ideas, he encourages students…

The Compass of Zen

The Compass of Zen, written by Zen Master Seung Sahn, is a clear and practical guide to the principles and practices of Zen Buddhism. Although written with beginners in mind, the book is also rich enough for long-time practitioners and lays…
The Whole World Is a Single Flower: 365 Kong-Ans for Everyday Life

The Whole World Is a Single Flower: 365 Kong-Ans for Everyday Life

The Whole World Is a Single Flower, by Zen Master Seung Sahn, is a powerful collection of 365 Zen koans, each of which is paired with guiding questions and insightful commentary. Designed for daily reflection, the book invites readers to experience…

Dropping Ashes on the Buddha, The Teaching of Zen Master Seung Sahn

Dropping Ashes on the Buddha is a collection of Zen teachings, stories and conversations with Korean Zen Master Seung Sahn, compiled during his time teaching in the West. The book captures his signature style, which is direct and humorous. It…

Jan Sendzimir JDPSN: Letter to a student (2024)

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Dear Peter, Thank you for your email. I regret that my reply is so late, but preparations to leave Europe for 5 months have kept us busy. The question of finding a direction for your life is fundamental. Your life, your sense of quality…