About Zen
The purpose of Zen training is to reveal that which is
central to our core experience of life.
Even though Zen practice traces its roots back to the Buddha, its essence
remains vital and
immediate, since it relies on personal encounter and not on dogma.
Essentially, sincere practice is itself the teacher. However, the Perth Zen
community is fortunate to have two Zen teachers, Ross Bolleter
Roshi and Ian Sweetman
Sensei, who provide opportunities for formal Zen training. The group’s teachers
support each student’s efforts and are a source of guidance and encouragement
for the Way.
Zen Practice
The various practices that Zen students train in include breath counting, “shikantaza” or awareness training, and koan
study where the student is given a word, verse, or story from the Zen tradition
as a focus for meditation.
These practices develop the ability to concentrate and experience a deeper
encounter with everyday life and to gain a better understanding of who we are.
Mind is the mountains,
the rivers, the great earth itself, the sun, the moon and stars
About the Group
The Zen Group of W.A. was formed in 1983. Today the ZGWA mails out to more than
120 members and associates & meditation retreats (sesshins)
are available through the year on a regular basis.
The group is affiliated with the Diamond Sangha which
was founded in Hawaii in 1959 by Robert Aitken Roshi. Aitken Roshi’s
book, “Taking the Path of Zen” is a wonderful introduction to Zen practice and
is available for purchase at the Zendo.
Welcoming Atmosphere
The group is very open and welcoming. True to Zen form, the group is run by its
members which allows for many creative and practical ways to participate.
Meditation at the Zendo
Regular meditation is held at the Zendo
located at:
St Paul's Church Hall, 162 Hampton Road,
Beaconsfield, WA,
http://www.stpaulsbeaconsfield.org.au/
The church hall is up the back and there is plenty of parking space.
Meditation is held every Thursday night from 7.00pm to 9:00pm and also
on every 1st and 3rd Sunday morning of the month at 5.30 am. We usually run for
a couple of hours. Everyone is welcome to come to the weekly meditations. If
you want to learn more about Zen meditation contact us for an orientation and
talks programme. Please wear loose fitting, non-eye-catching
clothing and bring all your questions!
Muffled, through dish pan suds, the sound of crystal
Irena
Harford