Individual Meetings

Individual face-to-face teaching is one of the most powerful tools of the Zen tradition, and anyone who comes to the Henry David Thoreau Zen Sangha is encouraged to take advantage of them. These private meetings are called dokusan (pronounced “doke-san”) or simply “interviews.” The purpose of dokusan is to address the Great Matter, the matter of life and death, and of liberation amid our suffering.

These are opportunities to make a personal connection with one of the teachers, to bring your Zen practice into the realm of the interpersonal, or to ask any question you like about anything to do with Zen:

• your practice on or off your cushion

• bringing the teachings into your life

• the Precepts of skillful action

• the liturgy, especially anything that resonates with you, or confuses you or provokes you

• working with koans

• considering coming to a retreat

• anything you are struggling with spiritually

The teachers in Living Vow Zen regard the interpersonal aspect of teaching to be exceptionally important.

Check the schedule for details about when interviews are offered.

Please note: Living Vow Zen teachers and priests offer spiritual guidance and pastoral care on behalf of, and under the auspices of, Living Vow Zen. Guidance provided by teachers is spiritual, not licensed professional counseling. Teachers generally maintain confidentiality about matters raised but may consult each other or, rarely, others if it may prevent harm. This is never done lightly.