In Zen we say the Precepts are the life of Buddha. To take the Precepts and formally become a Buddhist signifies that you wish to enter the stream of Buddhism and abandon the delusion of separated, isolated life. This one great life of the universe that is the truth of who you are can never be encompassed in something as limited as words. The Preceps are the nearest we have in human language to this boundless reality. To take the Precepts is a matter of rejoicing for the practitioner and for all beings. On Sunday March 22nd Paul Gent recieved the Zen Precepts and the name “Yudo”, gentle way.  Congratulations to Paul. May his practice bring forth excellent fruits.

               The Zen Precepts

Taking refuge in the Buddha

Taking refuge in the Dharma

Taking refuge in the Sangha

Ceasing from evil

Doing only good

Doing good for others

Refraining from:

1.    Taking life.

2.    Stealing

3.    Lying

4.    Indulgence in abusive or inappropriate sexuality

5.    Abuse of intoxicants.

6.    Criticism of others.

7.    Boasting of attainments and belittling others.

8.    Being mean

9.    Harbouring anger

10 Defaming one’s own or others’ teachers or spiritual paths.

On the 7th December, the eve of the Buddha’s Enlightenment Festival, we joined in a goma, a fire ceremony.  There are differing forms of this ancient ceremony, the one we performed was concerned with burning up the obstructions to realisation.

“Studying the Way is like making a fire with a drill. You can’t stop when you see smoke. You must keep at it until you see flames; then you’ve reached your goal.” Zen Master Ryuge Kodon.

Shinzan Roshi conducting a goma

 Hiya, I hope all’s well with you. I’m back from the Scottish Highlands where we did a two-week fastrack yoga teacher training course. Here’s some feedback:

  “The tuition was more than I ever dreamed of. I am so very very grateful. Thankyou so much from me and everyone it will touch.” Vicki Rebecca.

  “…very thorough, fun and delivered with great integrity. Daizan’s passion and deep-rooted beliefs are a true inspiration to others.” Charlotte Esme Turner

  “I learned here more about teaching and presenting myself in two weeks than in five years training as a school teacher.” Mila Clement-Horton

“I feel I have been given all the tools I need to become a good yoga teacher.” Lisa Durant.

     The next course starts on July 24th. There are still some places available. If you’re interested in a professional yoga teacher qualification that is recognised all over the world and you’re aware of the value of fastrack, total-immersion training, have a look at the yoga teacher training page.

      Hope to see you in Devon on the 24th,

                                   Cheers  Daizan