Disciplining the Body-Mind
The Oxford Handbook of Buddhist Practice May 19, 2022 DOI: 10.1093/oxfordhb/9780190632922.013.23 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Case study Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Western practitioners at Tassajara Zen Mountain Center |
| Key findings | The chapter describes Sōtō Zen monastic training in America as centered on transformative practices—zazen, ritual forms, a rigorous regimen, and communal self-study—and argues that its relevance extends beyond monastic life because most Western practitioners return to lay life. |
Abstract
Abstract Buddhist traditions entering a new cultural sphere undergo a broad array of developments, some quite profound. This chapter examines how engaging Sōtō Zen monastic discipline in America functions for Western practitioners. Tassajara Zen Mountain Center serves as a case study of this phenomenon. A basic description of monastic training is offered in terms of the dynamics of its transformative practices. Exploration of practices will focus on meditation (zazen), engaging ritual forms, following a rigorous training regimen, and studying the self in a highly relational, communal approach to monastic discipline. The issues of economic support and interfacing with larger communities of lay supporters are discussed. As most Western monastic practitioners return to lay life, the relevance of Zen monastic training to post-monastic life is also addressed.