Classes: Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind
In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s mind there are few.”
— Shunryu Suzuki-roshi
Thursdays in July
5:00 – 7:00 pm PT
July 3, 10, 27, 24, 31
Online via Zoom
Led by Everyday Zen Priests and Lay Entrusted Teachers:
Alan Block, Anlor Davin, Christopher Dumbleton, James Flaherty, John Murray, Judith Gilbert, Judy Fleischman, Michael Gelfond, Neal Shorstein, Steve Gross
Join us for a five-week reflection on Shunryo Suzuki Roshi’s Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind: Informal Talks on Zen Meditation and Practice, first published in 1970 and still widely read today. Each week, two Everyday Zen teachers will present short talks on lectures from this classic collection, followed by small and large group discussions.
Known for his gentle and open approach based on Dōgen’s teachings, Suzuki-roshi (1904-1971) was the founder of San Francisco Zen Center and is one of the most beloved teachers in modern Buddhism. Our practice at Everyday Zen is entirely based on Suzuki-roshi’s way.
Format
Each class session will include:
- A pair of short talks on selected chapters
- Small group discussions to share insights and questions
- Large group dialogue to deepen our collective understanding
This class will be held online only via Zoom. You are encouraged to attend all five sessions to deepen your own and the group’s shared engagement with the material, but registration is not required.
Students are encouraged to read Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind before or during the course and to offer dana (see below). Even if you have read it previously, revisiting this classic text can reveal new insights and understanding. Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind is widely available at bookstores, libraries, and online retailers.
SYLLABUS
DANA
The suggested donation for classes on Zoom is $15 per class. Please give what you can. We cannot continue offering classes without your financial support. Thank you!
