SFZC: Jizo Ceremony for Those Who Have Died

Teachers: Hoka Chris Fortin Jennifer Block
On Zoom in the SFZC Online Zendo

Jizo Bodhisattva is the bodhisattva of fearlessly shepherding those who are crossing realms: from life into death, from birth into life, from a place of the known into the unknown.

The Jizo ceremony, traditionally focused on protection and nurturance for children who have died, is one that calls forth the qualities of Jizo: unconditional love, great commitment, and unshakable fearlessness. In this ceremony, we will draw upon the power of Jizo as we turn fully towards the deep process of grieving and letting go of loved ones who have died.

While traditionally we gather in person for this ceremony, we have adapted this ceremony to an online format to support one another, even as our ability to join together in person is restricted. The ceremony will consist of three parts:

• Gathering together to hear about the tradition and archetype of Jizo Bodhisattva and the traditions of this ritual.
• Time to create offerings or renderings of Jizo from items found at home to be used in the ceremony.
• Coming together again to share what we have made and witness one another’s offerings in ceremony.

In preparation, we ask that all participants:

• Create a space in your home that allows for a quiet, contemplative atmosphere for the duration of the ceremony.
• If possible, create an altar with a bowl and candle, and any other objects that are meaningful to you.
• Gather materials you would need to render a Jizo (see suggestions below).

It is important to know you do not need to be “crafty” to participate in this ceremony (we have seen participants of all abilities create offerings in this ritual), but please bring a willingness to engage creatively with your hands.

To register and for more information, please visit the event page at San Francisco Zen Center: 

• Jizo Ceremony for Those Who Have Died, Online 6/5

 
If you have any questions please email Chris Fortin at chrisfortin@comcast.net.