Questions and Answers Index

Shodo Harada Roshi has answered more than 700 questions about Zen.

On this page the questions are organized by the following categories:

• Zazen Breathing
• Zazen Practice
• Zen Practice
• Art and Meditation
• Bodhisattva Vow and Practice
• Buddha Nature
• Buddhist Traditions
• Buddhist Texts and Practices
• Career and Enlightenment
• Daily Practice and Awakening
• Educational Content
• Identity and Society
• Interfaith Dialogue
• Justice and Non-Duality
• MU Koan
• Mental Health and Zen
• Mental States and Brahmaviharas
• Modern Enlightenment Critique
• Peace and Conflict
• Philosophy of Being and Time
• Practice and Self-Reflection
• Relationships and Acceptance
• Religious Symbolism
• Samsara and Dharma
• Spiritual Experiences
• True Self Alignment
• Western Zen Buddhism

Please see here for a list of questions sorted alphabetically.

Zazen Breathing

• Am I practicing Zazen correctly if my breath becomes shorter over time instead of lengthening?
• How can I effectively observe my breath in Zazen without interrupting its natural flow?
• How can I improve my abdominal breathing during Zazen meditation?
• How can one practically purify the mind amidst daily challenges and random thoughts, especially when practicing sussokan?
• How can synchronizing breath with pulse enhance relaxation during practices like the Golden Hour?
• How can we incorporate zazen principles like breath awareness and focus on the tanden into our daily activities outside of formal meditation?
• How does Terlusollogie’s focus on exhalation compare to Zen’s approach to breathing types?
• How does the concept of breathing through an empty pipe relate to my life and experiences?
• How should I properly exhale: by contracting the abdomen alone, or is diaphragm contraction also involved, and in what order?
• How should the tanden center of gravity be positioned during exhalation in zazen compared to Qi Gong and makkoho practices?
• How should we focus our attention on inhalation in Zen practice, considering the emphasis on deep exhalation?
• Is it acceptable to breathe into the chest if my diaphragm doesn’t open properly when breathing into the hara, and what exactly is the hara?
• Is it normal for vision to darken when exhaling and lighten when inhaling while sitting?
• Is it normal to struggle with zazen breathing exercises, and what advice can help a novice?
• Is it possible to breathe naturally without manipulation instead of focusing on slow and long exhalations?
• Is the breath associated with the tanden the same as the breath in our lungs?
• Is the tanden related to what Westerners call intuition, and how does it affect my feelings during interactions?
• Is there a role for will in breathing practices despite the advice against pursuing results?
• Should the koan “What is This?” be asked on the outbreath or from within the tanden during zazen practice?
• Should the koan “Who am I?” be practiced with breath awareness or as a unified experience in the tanden?
• What are the next steps for someone practicing breath counting meditation twice daily without a teacher?
• What distinguishes natural breathing from the technique of inhaling naturally followed by slow exhalation?
• What is the proper breathing technique when practicing MU, especially after transitioning from Sussokan to samadhi?
• What sensations should I expect in the tanden area located below the navel?
• What techniques can help me let go of controlling my breath?
• Why is nasal breathing preferred in Zazen, and why focus on the lower abdomen rather than the lungs, especially in daily life and during activities like running?

Zazen Practice

• Are there techniques in zazen, like breathing sussokan, that help focus and return our attention?
• Can achieving inner silence during Zazen enhance my meditation journey?
• Can daily zazen practice and self-study of Buddhism lead to Enlightenment without a teacher or koan, and is lengthy sitting necessary?
• Can I improve my zazen practice to sit longer than 20-25 minutes, or is this limitation just my ego?
• Can practicing zazen enhance my martial arts skills as a student?
• Does deep absorption in koan questioning contradict the practice of mindfulness and clarity in daily life?
• Does Hakuin Zenji’s instruction to press down with the soles of the feet refer to pressing against the futon or away from the body?
• Does ongoing zazen practice enhance awareness of dreams and deep sleep, or is specific preparation needed?
• Does partial or all-night yaza help maintain awareness during sleep, and are there zen adepts who achieve continuous awareness even in deep sleep?
• Does practicing zazen alone in isolation hinder my progress, and can I advance without a master?
• Does sitting in virasana instead of lotus affect the quality of Zazen for beginners?
• How can a beginner overcome discomfort and self-awareness during Zazen meditation practice?
• How can I achieve restful sleep while practicing zazen and minimizing distractions from my thoughts?
• How can I address neck tension during zazen practice, and when will you be in Germany for a possible meeting?
• How can I balance deepening my Zen practice at a training center with my other commitments and responsibilities?
• How can I completely forget myself and my meditation object during practice?
• How can I cope with fear during zazen practice that has resurfaced over time?
• How can I cope with the loss of my long-time Rinzai Zen teacher and the challenges of attachment in my practice?
• How can I improve my ability to maintain a low gaze during zazen meditation?
• How can I improve my alertness and focus during early morning zazen practice?
• How can I improve my alertness and focus during early morning zazen sessions?
• How can I overcome my resistance to practicing zazen despite my desire to integrate Zen into my life?
• How can I overcome the challenges posed by my storytelling mind after years of dedicated zazen practice?
• How can one approach the mental aspects of samu during a sesshin meditation retreat?
• How can one effectively balance the urgency and patience required in Osesshin practice?
• How can one effectively practice Zazen while engaging in activities like studying, reading, or writing that require intellectual focus?
• How can one effectively practice Zen while engaging in intense intellectual work that demands focused thinking and mental effort?
• How can one harmonize body and mind during painful experiences in zazen while maintaining stillness?
• How can one maintain mental clarity and balance amidst the influences of those around them during zazen practice?
• How can someone who feels less spiritually sensitive engage with the concept of focusing on the hara during zazen?
• How can the balance achieved through zazen be differentiated from true equilibrium and equanimity?
• How can the seemingly contradictory sayings about meditation—being like a finely tuned string and requiring full energy—be reconciled?
• How can we effectively practice zazen with limited time due to work and family commitments?
• How can Zen practitioners maintain liveliness and avoid dullness in their practice?
• How does the structure of required sanzen in sesshin compare to home practice without it?
• How should a Keisaku practitioner address half-hearted sitting and untidy postures during practice?
• How significant is the physical aspect of sitting in achieving a settled mind during zazen?
• Is celibacy considered important in the practice of Zazen, and if so, what are the reasons behind it?
• Is it acceptable to practice zazen while standing due to knee issues?
• Is it beneficial to remain in a state of peace during sesshin instead of practicing techniques like sussokan when feeling tired?
• Is it better to continue asking “What is This?” or switch to Shikantaza for deeper stillness in practice?
• Is it counterproductive to focus solely on one thought or feeling during Zen practice?
• Is it more effective to practice zazen with a relaxed mindset or a determined focus on breath awareness?
• Is it necessary to sit cross-legged on the floor for exercises, or can I use a chair due to discomfort?
• Is it normal to feel bored during zazen practice, and what suggestions can help enhance my experience?
• Is it normal to feel self-critical about my Zazen practice as a layman, and how can I address these feelings?
• Is it normal to feel tension in the abdomen while practicing zazen meditation?
• Is it safe to continue zazen meditation in full lotus posture despite experiencing numbness and pressure in my leg?
• Is sitting in seiza for zazen causing discomfort and shaking in my legs, and should I consider a different posture?
• Is sitting with eyes closed while observing shapes and colors as effective as sitting with eyes slightly open, and if not, is it still acceptable?
• Is the dissolution of thoughts during Shikantaza a form of control, and how can I embrace the experience of observing all thoughts?
• Is the merging sensation of hands during meditation something to discourage, and how can I address it?
• Is the primary purpose of zazen simply to clear the mind, and can any tools be used for this, or is deep breathing the most effective method for everyone, including the correct way to chant?
• Is the shifting sensation in my head during zazen a normal part of deepening my practice?
• Is zazen practice similar to a job, where counting breaths is like performing a task without striving for a specific state?
• Should I continue zazen practice despite hearing unsettling sounds?
• Should meditation focus on breath, self-awareness, or simply allowing thoughts to be?
• Should one count breaths at the start of zazen when practicing with a koan, or focus solely on the koan?
• Should there be a conscious intention to draw energy from the sky and earth during Zazen practice?
• Should zazen practice focus inward on a single point or maintain an open, expansive awareness?
• What are the differences in wall positioning during SOTO and RINZAI zazen practices?
• What are the primary challenges that hinder consistent zazen practice?
• What are the steps to effectively practice Shikantaza meditation?
• What can be done to address temporary blurred vision after practicing zazen?
• What constitutes the correct creative application of zazen in relation to achieving kensho?
• What could be the cause of involuntary movements and sounds during zazen practice, and how can I recover from this issue?
• What does “empty mind” mean in the context of meditation, and how can we explain it to others?
• What does effortless effort mean and how can it be practiced effectively?
• What exercises can help maintain abdominal flexibility and ease before zazen meditation?
• What insights or experiences can one expect to gain from practicing zazen?
• What is the purpose of dedicating a life to zazen practice when it may lead to suffering instead of happiness?
• What is the significance of the question “What is this?” in zazen practice?
• What is the true nature of time as perceived during zazen?
• What prevents spontaneous self-transcendence, and is breath-focused meditation sufficient for this?
• What specific methods can enhance my practice to achieve deeper states of samadhi in Zen meditation?
• What techniques can effectively help quiet the mind during zazen meditation?
• What techniques can help deepen and maintain a zazen state of mind, and should I focus solely on my breath?
• Where should I focus my attention in the body while practicing sussokan counting?
• Who is aware of thoughts and body during zazen, and why do people experience it differently, including critical perceptions, and how can I assist them in their practice?
• Why did meditating in the ocean feel more disruptive than meditating in a forest with active children?
• Why do I feel sleepy during zazen when practicing Bassui’s koan, unlike in daily life or past practices?
• Why do many practitioners of zazen not achieve enlightenment despite their dedication?
• Why does zazen practice feel deeper during sesshin compared to home practice despite similar motivation and minimal distractions?

Zen Practice

• Is practicing Zen about cultivating a habit of not believing and not following our thoughts to focus on the present moment?
• Is there a Zen practice comparable to the Dzogchen to gal technique?
• Should older sangha members have sesshins to continue their Zen training?
• Should we focus on koans during zazen and fully engage with daily activities instead?
• What alternative sitting postures can I use in Zen practice to accommodate my lower back pain?
• What are effective ways to practice Zen in a garden and how does nature contribute to this practice?
• What are the connections between sussokan, zazen, and samadhi, and how do kensho and satori differ in this context?
• What are the differences between shikantaza and koan practice, and who would benefit from each approach?
• What are the potential pitfalls of practicing hermit Zen compared to being part of a sangha?
• What are the ways to effectively give Sanzen Roshi, and is it an innate ability or learned skill that requires preparation?
• What does it mean for the guest and host to be clear in Zen teachings?
• What does it mean to practice Zen continuously, and is it related to the concept of selflessness?
• What does it mean when a koan resurfaces in my mind and feels like an expanding bubble?
• What does Torei Zenji mean by stating that excessive effort in achieving satori creates barriers in Zen training?
• What does Zen tradition say about the unconscious gap experienced during sleep and how to address it?
• What elements contribute to a strong lay practice in Zen, and how important is daily formal practice and Zazen duration?
• What indicators show a student is ready to start koan practice, and what are the initial steps to begin?
• What is the appropriate approach to Zen practice that balances Great Courage, Great Faith, and Great Question?
• What is the historical background and significance of the koan “What Is This?” in Zen practice?
• What is the historical timeline for the use of Koans in Zen practice?
• What is the minimum number of enlightenment stages required to be recognized as a Zen Master according to Hakuin?
• What is the most effective practice for achieving satori among samadhi, self-inquiry, and body investigation?
• What is the purpose of asking questions in the context of an endless zen dilemma?
• What is the relationship between the mind in Zen philosophy and the brain, and does the mind exist independently of the brain after death?
• What is the role of emotions in Zen, and is it true that experiencing emotions is Zen while labeling them as good or bad is not?
• What is the role of Koan practice in the lives of lay practitioners?
• What is the significance and purpose of will in Zen practice?
• What is the significance of kiai as a spontaneous expression during sanzen in Zen practice?
• What is the significance of the bell being struck four times at the beginning of the zazen period?
• What is the significance of the cosmic mudra and clasped hand positions during zazen practice?
• What is the significance of work practice Samu in Zen practice?
• What meditation techniques can help sustain basic bodily needs like food and sunlight over extended periods, inspired by the story of the football coach and the trapped kids?
• What role does a zen teacher play in lay practice beyond koan work, and how can we determine when to seek a new teacher during challenging times?
• What should I consider if I never experience Kensho as described by Suzuki in Zen Mind Beginner Mind?

Art and Meditation

• Can art in calligraphy only emerge from a meditative state within strict traditions or chosen repetitive structures?
• Can mastering Zen truly require experience in traditional Japanese arts, as suggested by Eugen Herrigel?
• Can practicing Kendo lead to personal enlightenment and self-development?
• Can practicing Tai Chi enhance the ability to feel and direct chi flow during extended sittings?
• How can I find the correct kanji expression for “it’s better to burn too much than to not burn at all” that resonates with my artistic and martial journey?
• How can I overcome creative and intellectual barriers while exploring Zen Buddhism for personal and artistic growth?
• How do chimpanzee Congo’s paintings influence our understanding of reality in artistic form?
• How do Western art practices complement traditional sitting practices compared to Eastern art forms?
• How is Kyudo, the Japanese art of archery, connected to Zen philosophy?
• What are the motivations and reasons behind creating art?
• What are your thoughts or interpretations of this picture?
• What is the deeper meaning of ‘Good Luck’ in calligraphy, and how does it relate to concepts like dualism and karma?
• What is the relationship between SHODO and ZEN practice, particularly in the context of calligraphy?
• What is the significance of the enso in Zen art and its impact on viewers?
• What techniques can I use to improve my calligraphy through Zen principles in my practice of Shodo?
• What types and sizes of Zen Calligraphy brushes, sumi inks, and papers do you use, and where can they be purchased?

Bodhisattva Vow and Practice

• How can we fulfill our Bodhisattva vow to help the world while in a state of mind that is oblivious to worldly affairs?
• How does Buddhism’s perspective on personal transformation relate to the necessity of social work for achieving salvation?
• How prepared should a student be for a teacher to appear?
• Is it morally and ethically acceptable to take medication developed through animal testing despite a vow to save all beings?
• Is life in a Zen monastery or lay practice outside more beneficial for saving all beings?
• Should we assist others, and what are the most effective methods for doing so?
• What is the origin and significance of our vows?
• What is the purpose of saving sentient beings if both the sun and Earth will eventually cease to exist?

Buddha Nature

• Can a deceased dog be said to possess Buddha nature?
• Can we demonstrate that being one with everything transcends ordinary consciousness and represents an attainment of Buddhadhatu?
• Does discovering one’s essence naturally lead to forgiveness, and how does this relate to Buddha nature?
• Does realizing one’s True Nature enhance the understanding of living the Four Vows as the highest purpose in life?
• Does the concept of Buddha Nature imply that our physical body is a manifestation of emptiness as taught in the Heart Sutra?
• How can I demonstrate my Buddha nature when I feel trapped in uncertainty?
• What do Zen teachers mean by breaking emptiness into pieces during satori, and should we leave behind emptiness states or find deeper meaning in their descriptions?
• What does it mean to say life is an illusion or dream in the context of Anatta, the concept of no self?

Buddhist Traditions

• Are there multiple paths to realizing buddha nature, and can studying different traditions like the Pali Canon and Vedanta coexist without confusion?
• Can Rinzai’s teachings be adapted for modern Western practitioners with different ego structures and levels of interest?
• Can self power jiriki and other power tariki be effectively combined in a single practice?
• Can the practice of Zen truly lead to freedom from suffering, despite its focus on understanding the nature of mind?
• Can true Zen exist independently of Buddha worship and ritual practices?
• Do Buddhas and Bodhisattvas practice for others rather than themselves?
• Do I need a master to discover the truth, and why is this process considered difficult?
• Do you accept lifelong vows from students of Zen practice?
• Do you and Rinzai Zen practitioners believe in the concept of Mappo?
• Does nature provide responses to the needs of animals and humans beyond food, including medicine?
• Does Zen Buddhism’s view of body and mind as one contradict the concept of the soul’s rebirth into a new body?
• How can I balance my Zen practice focused on MU with the compassion I cultivated in the Tibetan tradition?
• How can I maintain openness and honesty in Zen practice while facing language barriers?
• How can I reconcile my aspirations for Kensho with the Soto Zen practice of shikantaza, especially in light of criticisms from Rinzai practitioners?
• How can one find their true master in a society distant from monastic traditions?
• How can the Japanese phrase 性癖 be interpreted from a traditional Zen perspective in the context of late 19th to early 20th century teachings?
• How can Zen maintain traditional practices while adapting to Western cultural contexts without losing the essence of the practice?
• How crucial is the selection of a teacher when beginning Zen practice, and what are the reasons for choosing Rinzai Zen over Soto Zen?
• How do Zen Master Seung Sahn’s teachings compare to those practiced in your school?
• How does Zen Buddhism explain the creation of the Universe compared to scientific and religious perspectives?
• How often do Roshi influence their future students’ dedication to Buddhism upon first meeting?
• Is awareness of your true being sufficient for ultimate realization, or is joining a Zen monastery necessary for stability?
• Is it more significant to plant a tree or to understand its emptiness?
• Is the concept of a true man without rank being dead in the past, future, and at birth an accurate understanding?
• Is the Dzogchen view of inherent purity and emptiness discoverable only through zazen practice?
• Is there a connection between the name One Drop Zen and the concept of mottainai, and how does this influence the principles of the sangha?
• Should a monk express gratitude and seek permission from a former teacher before attending sesshin with another roshi?
• Should we focus on a single meditative tradition or embrace a variety of practices?
• What are the key standards and values that define a Buddhist society?
• What are the similarities and differences between mushin and mindfulness?
• What are your insights and experiences with Tibetan and Theravada teachings in Buddhism?
• What does the Zen teaching that “everything is in truth mind” mean, and does it refer to Buddha’s mind or the small mind?
• What factors contribute to the fragmentation of Buddhist practices into different sects in Japan?
• What is the Buddhist perspective on euthanasia for beloved pets, especially after a long and fulfilling life?
• What is the Buddhist perspective on mandatory organ donation laws and their ethical implications?
• What is the concept of Kokyu in Aikido and its relation to Kibreathing?
• What is the relationship between reincarnation and Buddha Nature according to different interpretations of Buddhist teachings?
• What is the significance of Buddha Dharma’s unchanging nature in its ability to influence and transform?
• What is the significance of deities like Kanzeon and Manjushri in Buddhism, and should they be worshipped for spiritual benefits?
• What is the significance of the Buddha’s bones (Shari) in Buddhism?
• What significance does ‘love’ hold in Zen tradition and practice, and should it be embraced or transcended?
• Why do we need to practice Zazen to realize our inherent Buddha Nature if it’s our natural expression, and why do most people seem distant from this realization?
• Why is a 20-year rigorous training period necessary in the Rinzai tradition before recognizing serious experiences, similar to Buddha’s 6 years of searching?
• Why is extensive training necessary if true mind can be experienced directly in simple moments?
• Will a new Buddha emerge, and how will we identify him among existing masters, or can individuals find their own path to well-being?

Buddhist Texts and Practices

• Are the Pali texts on Jhanic Zen meditations more beneficial than studying koans for understanding the Buddha’s enlightenment?
• Did the practice of focusing awareness on the tanden originate from Taoism in China, as it seems absent in Pali sutras like the Satipatthana?
• Do zen training practices involve different levels and stages of development?
• Does ethical discipline support or obstruct the practice of Zen?
• Does Rinzai Zen have a practice similar to shikantaza, and what are its aims and methods?
• Does Rinzai Zen’s emphasis on abandoning tradition conflict with the preservation of valuable teachings and the Dharma?
• Does Sussokan or Koan practice lead to a deeper understanding of the mind?
• Does the Lankavatara suggest that individual karmic memories merge into a universal consciousness at rebirth?
• Does Zen Buddhism have a baptism-like ceremony, and how does one officially identify as a Buddhist?
• How can I choose the right meditation practice for wholehearted commitment among various options like self-inquiry, vipassana, and others?
• How can I improve my Zen practice without a teacher, and is a master essential for achieving Satori?
• How can I recognize my readiness for a teacher, similar to Master Dogen’s journey?
• How can I start practicing Rinzai Zen in Haarlem, and are there resources or teachers available for guidance?
• How can monastic places adjust their schedules to better support older sangha members, particularly those around 60 years old?
• How can one determine the right time to take monastic vows while feeling a calling to serve others?
• How can one discern if the desire to train in a monastery is genuine or merely an escape from societal life?
• How do Buddhist teachings explain the concept that the world is created by the mind and its origins?
• How do the Rinzai and Soto schools differ in their understanding of satori, and are their approaches to Zen fundamentally different or similar?
• How does Dogen’s perspective in Shobogenzo on laypeople versus monks reflect on compassion in practice?
• How does the second precept’s teaching on non-attachment affect the concepts of giving, receiving, and generosity in human interactions?
• How effective is chanting the Lotus Sutra and Na Mu Myo Ho Renge Kyo twice daily compared to practicing zazen, and what are your thoughts on Nichiren Shu?
• How is the practice of repentance approached in Zen traditions to review and let go of inappropriate actions and thoughts?
• Is home practice sufficient for spiritual training according to HuiNeng’s teachings in the Platform Sutra?
• Is it acceptable to learn Zen Buddhism through online resources if I am unable to attend in-person events due to a disability?
• Is it acceptable to use established teachings when discussing Zen practice, or should I express my own understanding?
• Is it appropriate to chant the Heart Sutra after making an offering on the altar for the deceased, and when is a Dai Hi Shu more suitable?
• Is kensho essential for experiencing Zen, especially when practicing shikantaza and studying Master Dogen?
• Is the practice of sussokan widely taught in the Rinzai Sect, or is it confined to specific lineages, and why do you emphasize this teaching?
• Is there a specific method for reciting sutras to enhance the experience of becoming one with the text and sound?
• Should we incorporate practice-oriented discussions into our Zazen meetings, and what texts would you recommend for this purpose?
• What advice can be given to avoid wrong jhana as described by the Buddha during his time?
• What are effective methods for understanding the meaning of the sutras?
• What are the circumstances surrounding Nagarjuna’s death, the claimed author of the Heart Sutra?
• What are the historical origins of keisaku and why do some Zen practitioners oppose its use?
• What are the key differences between zazen practice and samatha-vipassana in Theravada Buddhism?
• What are the proper techniques and guidelines for effective chanting?
• What are the three key statements or teachings of Rinzai in Zen Buddhism?
• What considerations should I keep in mind when placing an altar in my zendo?
• What distinguishes the 6th precept from the 7th precept regarding negative speech and ego?
• What does Hakuin mean by “the gate of the oneness of cause and effect is thereby opened”?
• What does Master Rinzai mean by the term Buji?
• What does the “one last shout of Rinzai” refer to in the Rinzai Roku?
• What does the phrase “opening the mountain” signify in your teachings?
• What does the phrase ‘turning the light around to shine back’ mean in the context of teachings from old patriarchs?
• What does the Preface of Rinzai’s sayings mean by advising Zen students not to exploit the text?
• What does the term ‘the four seas’ refer to in the context of the Teisho at Houkuzan Sogenji?
• What does the term SHIKARYO refer to in the context of a Zen monastery?
• What insights can be drawn from Hakuin’s phrase “Realizing the form of no form as form”?
• What is an example of a heart-centered koan that emphasizes emotional understanding?
• What is the deeper meaning behind the expression “opening the mountain”?
• What is the eating process in Rinzaishu for vegetarians, and how does it compare to Soto, including details on recipes, dishes, cutlery, time, and frequency?
• What is the name of the Sutra that discusses the five ways of seeing as taught by the Buddha?
• What is the significance of receiving a dharma name during a Jukai ceremony, and does it reflect an inherent quality or a potential for growth?
• What is the significance of the famous transmission outside the scripture in Zen Buddhism?
• What practical advice can be offered from the Vimalakirti Sutra for a suffering sentient being to apply its teachings in daily life?
• What specific form of spiritual training is Hakuin referring to in the context of the Six Paramitas in the Song of Zazen?
• What types of studies and books are recommended for Zen practitioners at various levels to enhance their practice and understanding?
• Why did the practice of using physical strikes in Obaku and Rinzai teaching end, and what made it effective?
• Why do you chant sutras quietly, and what is your approach to this practice?
• Why is prostration included in rituals when meditation and community work seem sufficient for finding the way of the heart?
• Why was the decision made to establish Enso House as a hospice service instead of addressing other needs?

Career and Enlightenment

• Can a demanding engineering career in renewable energy lead to personal enlightenment despite its challenges?
• Can I maintain my humanity and emotional authenticity while working in a tough banking environment?
• How can a computer programmer achieve a calm and clear mind through their work, which often feels disconnected from their practice and the present moment?
• How can I find motivation to study Rinzai Zen while balancing work and home commitments, and how can I overcome my ego and fear of judgment in my practice?
• How can I find purpose and success in my life after practicing Zen in a monastery for five years?
• How can I find the strength to leave my family and commit to a monastic life after experiencing a Sesshin?
• How can I overcome my doubts about the impact of Zen practice as a Work Leader in a large temple?
• How can I provide calmness and hope to my colleagues during the anxiety of our workplace being sold?
• How can I transition from corporate life to pursuing a career in farming while managing my studies?
• How can I understand the relationship between my doubts, career intentions, and the concept of karma?
• How can we identify our true vocation and path in life that aligns with our genius and deepest human potential?
• Is it appropriate to believe that simple employment is the best fit for a layperson?
• What does ‘working creatively’ mean in your context?

Daily Practice and Awakening

• Can deep awakening states be achieved through daily practice in society, similar to experiences in a Zen monastery?
• Can lying down and sleeping be done in a way that supports meditation practice?
• Do I need to enter a monastery for training to achieve a centered experience in daily life?
• Do zen practitioners seek comfort and control through sitting, or is there a deeper purpose to their practice?
• Does focusing on body sensations and breath during relaxation truly benefit others, or is it primarily for personal gain?
• Does the direction of gaze in Zen and yoga practices affect mindfulness and mental silence?
• Does the phrase “At every step the pure wind rises” imply that the wind arises naturally, through practice, or is it a combination of both?
• How can I access those life practices and find a teacher for guidance?
• How can I apply the mental discipline from martial arts and meditation to my daily interactions with others?
• How can I continue my meditation practice while managing pain from sitting in a wheelchair due to MS?
• How can I effectively integrate my awakening into daily life for the benefit of all beings?
• How can I effectively practice letting go of overwhelming feelings in daily life when they seem to vanish during meditation?
• How can I maintain a connection to wide flowing energy while concentrating on a specific point, like the tip of a needle?
• How can I maintain engagement in my meditation practice without becoming numb or passive?
• How can I maintain focus in daily life amidst distractions after practicing zazen?
• How can I maintain mindfulness and focus in daily life after experiencing a life-threatening situation?
• How can I maintain the positive habits and energy I developed during retreats after returning to daily life?
• How can I practice Zen as a parent and find inspiration that my path is as valuable as monastic training?
• How can I realign my meditation practice to reduce attachment to time while maintaining my routine?
• How can I regain my ability to meditate after experiencing difficulties and restlessness?
• How can I rekindle my desire to meditate after feeling a loss of motivation and connection to my practice?
• How can lay practitioners effectively practice Buddhism alone in daily life without access to monasteries or Sangha?
• How can lay practitioners navigate their spiritual path and realize their true nature in the context of modern challenges and Covid restrictions?
• How can one cultivate the necessary intensity for practice in a cultural setting that feels unusual or challenging?
• How can one effectively work with a koan during zazen and incorporate it into daily life?
• How can one engage with the past without losing presence and clarity in the moment of satori?
• How can one integrate the formless experience of realization into daily life, especially when meditation feels like a waiting game for grace?
• How can one maintain a host mindset amidst the distractions of family and business after a sesshin retreat?
• How can one maintain the state of becoming the whole Zendo in everyday activities like work and traffic?
• How can one practice effectively in the presence of stronger individuals who can significantly intervene in their journey?
• How can we balance being fully present in the moment while also considering the impacts of our actions as guided by precepts or paramitas?
• How can we balance transcending our needs with self-care in daily life after formal practice?
• How can we effectively practice and enhance our skills in a computer-centric work environment?
• How does the timing of meditation affect energy levels and sleep quality?
• Is cutting one’s hair similar to pruning weeds for maintaining health in a garden?
• Is it acceptable to practice individually without being part of a sangha?
• Is it better to retreat to a monastery for practice or can we achieve the same spiritual growth while living in society?
• Is Naikan practice recommended for students living a lay life before sleep?
• Should I protect spider webs when cleaning corners?
• What are the spiritual benefits and challenges of meditating at night, especially after years of daily practice?
• What are your recommendations for falling asleep and waking up, considering the difference between samadhi and original clear mind?
• What does awakening mean, and is it linked to the realization of no self, along with how long one needs to meditate for liberation?
• What is the ideal wake-up time for meditation in a temple compared to at home?
• What preparations should one consider before staying at a monastery for an extended period?
• Why is it challenging to maintain the calm of sesshin in daily life, and what strategies can help?

Educational Content

• What are the most effective learning strategies for students in a traditional classroom setting with teachers?
• What are the various causes and factors contributing to child mortality?
• What constitutes knowledge and how is it defined?
• What defines wisdom, its practical applications, and the concept of a perfect mind?
• What does intuition mean and how is it defined?
• What does it mean to break through in various contexts?
• What methods can be used to prevent a single drop of water from evaporating?
• What methods can explain the source of your immense energy?
• What qualifications and experiences are necessary to effectively teach meditation and share Buddhist or Zen knowledge?
• What signs indicate that a teacher is being authentic with their students?
• What signs or feelings indicate that you have found your true teacher?
• What steps can a student take when they feel teachers are no longer helpful despite extensive study and understanding?
• What type of training is most essential for adults in today’s world?

Identity and Society

• How can we navigate the conflict between personal identity and societal expectations when feeling stuck in life?
• How do individuals who understand the absence of a distinct ‘I’ navigate a world that appears to require individual identity?
• How does the ethnic and demographic self-segregation in U.S. Buddhism reflect on the practice of extinguishing duality as the tradition grows?
• How will the next generation develop socially and emotionally in a digital-centric world?
• Is it acceptable to consume meat, and do you identify as a vegetarian?
• Is the ego filter formed by emotions like anger and desire, as suggested in MOON BY THE WINDOW?
• Is the ego truly the fundamental problem in society, or can its smaller manifestations, like creativity and individuality, hold value?
• Should I identify as a Buddhist after practicing Zen Meditation for eight years without labeling myself?
• Should I wait for society to embrace a natural state or leave due to feeling out of place?
• What are the reasons behind the creation of the ego and our fragmentation into multiple identities?
• What can we learn from the spider’s ability to create without getting entangled, and how can we cut attachments to achieve freedom from the ego?
• What drives our tendency to compare ourselves to others in a capitalistic society, and how can we find alternative reference points to overcome self-measurement?
• What factors contribute to the lack of wisdom transmission from the elderly to younger generations?
• What is the relationship between personality and the ego in our understanding of self?

Interfaith Dialogue

• Can Buddhism and Christianity engage in deeper dialogue and understanding?
• Can one harmoniously integrate Christian beliefs with Buddhist practices while pursuing Jukai?
• Can we effectively assist others in cultivating Zen essence using different cultural vocabularies and ideas?
• Can we transcend religious traditions and rituals while maintaining a connection to Dharma and our teachers?
• Could the spiritual practice I recall from the Viking age be linked to early tantric paths or Qigong-like exercises?
• Did Christ travel to India to study Buddhism, and what are the implications of this belief?
• How can we authentically practice seeing the divine in others, as exemplified by Mother Teresa and Roshi’s teachings?
• How do Yogi practices compare and relate to Zen traditions?
• Is the concept of Oneness in Buddhism similar to God in Pantheism, and how does this relate to Spinoza’s philosophy?
• Is the Mu practice comparable to the Om meditation in Hindu yoga?

Justice and Non-Duality

• Can a police officer uphold justice while embracing a non-dualistic perspective like Buddha’s teachings?
• Can our actions harm others beyond our own karma, and how do we find true direction in life amidst ego and ‘bad’ actions?
• How can I enhance my Dharma practice to cultivate equanimity while working with clients in deep suffering?
• How can I help others recognize and achieve true freedom beyond societal limitations?
• How can we reconcile the act of removing plants or trees with the belief in the preciousness of all life and interconnectedness?
• How does Buddhism conceptualize justice in relation to harmful behavior and the need for protection?
• Is it ethical to work for a client that promotes hunting despite previously supporting positive causes?
• Is it morally justifiable to kill one person to save many others?

MU Koan

• Can I use my personal urgent life questions as koans, and should I focus on one or allow them to change naturally?
• Does focusing on the word “Mu” hinder my awareness compared to the question “What is This?” and indicate a preference or mistake in my practice?
• How can I effectively explore the concept of MU during my Koan practice when I only perceive darkness?
• How can one maintain concentration on a koan throughout the day while remaining mindful of surrounding sounds and activities?
• How can practitioners effectively transition from Mu breath to deeper inquiry without ample sanzen guidance?
• How do the approaches to the concept of “Wu” in Chinese and Korean Zen differ from the Japanese emphasis on becoming one with “Mu”?
• How should one approach koan study without a true teacher’s guidance?
• How should one recite the koan “Who am I?” during zazen: stretching syllables on the outbreath or repeating it normally at the start?
• Is it acceptable to shorten the question “What is this?” to just “What?” during practice, and how do alternative methods of inquiry compare?
• Should breath counting be used in zazen meditation with a koan, or is it better to focus solely on the koan?
• Should breath synchronization be avoided when contemplating a koan to prevent physical strain?
• What distinguishes holding a koan in mind from merely being preoccupied with a thought in relation to present experiences?
• What should our focus be during the pause at the end of exhalation while practicing Mu—continuing to repeat it or simply resting?
• Why is the Japanese term “Mu” from Zen tradition not translated into English for Western teachings?
• Why is the Mu koan presented simply as “Mu” instead of as a question like “What is Mu?”, and does this reduce the element of inquiry?

Mental Health and Zen

• Are OneDrop’s views on mental illness similar to those of a dojo that forbids mentally ill individuals?
• Can ki energy healing be effective for someone with liposarcoma, and what are the broader implications of cancer as a karmic lesson?
• Can meditation help me achieve a silent mind despite my traumatic past?
• Can my Zen practice help improve my daughter’s life with epilepsy, and what actions can I take as a mother?
• Can questions arise from a silent, clear mind rather than from the ego?
• Can realization in Zen practice be achieved despite limitations in concentration due to brain damage?
• Can training help us identify and separate intertwined aspects of personality and culture?
• Can we achieve awareness of the true mind in today’s society, or is isolation necessary for this awakening?
• Can zen practice provide support for overcoming quarterlife crisis symptoms like fear, procrastination, and self-doubt?
• Can Zen teachings help heal my son’s depression and addiction, and what practices should I consider?
• Does inner fear contribute to negative thoughts and feelings, affecting happiness and peace?
• Does the experience of distinct objects during yaza indicate a lack of unity in perception?
• Does unconscious competence in Zen suggest that deliberate actions are ego-driven while inadvertent actions are not?
• How can I address persistent self-consciousness and anxiety during zazen meditation?
• How can I confront my own fears of death while considering helping others who are dying?
• How can I cope with depression and feelings of unworthiness due to unemployment and trauma?
• How can I cope with feelings of worthlessness and shame despite my family’s support?
• How can I cope with the emotional burden of helping suicidal individuals online?
• How can I cope with the fear of death and its inevitability while finding meaning in life?
• How can I cope with the fear of dying and the potential realization of emptiness without losing my sanity?
• How can I effectively address depression and social anxiety when zazen practice seems ineffective?
• How can I effectively cope with overwhelming sadness during zazen practice?
• How can I effectively link my body and mind to manage idle thoughts in daily life?
• How can I effectively manage feelings of doubt and panic while maintaining clarity and calmness?
• How can I effectively manage feelings of laziness, irritability, and a critical attitude towards others?
• How can I effectively release my pent-up anger and achieve emotional balance?
• How can I effectively use zazen and breathing techniques to manage overwhelming emotions and prevent relapse in my addiction?
• How can I find clarity and purpose in my life when I feel stuck between dissatisfaction and the desire for change?
• How can I fully collapse my self-view after 20 years of Zen practice amidst schizophrenia and cancer?
• How can I manage my own fears and uncertainties while providing full support to hospice patients?
• How can I manage my wandering mind during meditation and understand its connection to my ego?
• How can I manage overwhelming emotions like anger and disappointment that persist even after years of daily meditation?
• How can I manage severe tinnitus during meditation, especially after past trauma?
• How can I meditate to feel more outwardly connected instead of introverted and passive?
• How can I navigate feelings of emptiness and identity loss after intensive meditation?
• How can I navigate my emerging compassion amidst the overwhelming suffering and confusion in society?
• How can I navigate the challenge of practicing when my motivations seem to stem from the ego?
• How can I overcome my mind’s tendency to grasp thoughts as objects and find lasting peace?
• How can I overcome negative memories that disrupt my peace and hinder my Zen practice?
• How can I overcome nervousness and improve my social interactions with friends and family?
• How can I overcome the overwhelming doubt I feel about staying present in my mindfulness practice?
• How can I overcome the restlessness and impatience I feel during meditation sessions?
• How can I reconcile my love for people with my feelings of emotional fatigue and disconnection?
• How can I regain confidence and respect for others after becoming handicapped due to a traumatic experience?
• How can I revive my lost motivation and inspiration for training after experiencing deep disappointment?
• How can I stabilize my inner world when it feels more chaotic than my outer environment?
• How can I support a friend who feels overwhelmed by societal apathy and is struggling to find meaning in caring for others?
• How can I support a friend with physical challenges in starting meditation practice?
• How can meditation help a Vietnam veteran manage traumatic nightmares and anxiety while facing his fears?
• How can one address the fear of becoming evil while practicing Zen, and should this emotional division be resolved beforehand or during practice?
• How can one effectively master their mind while balancing passivity and activity?
• How can one effectively utilize tanden to overcome desires, especially during moments of anxiety?
• How can one maintain focus on the non-ego aspect of the mind amidst daily distractions and social interactions, and does lay practice effectively support this?
• How can one soothe the pain of the soul and start to experience love and laughter?
• How can someone who has lost their desires reignite their inner motivation without external influences?
• How can we discern if our inner heart remains pure and when we might have strayed from our path?
• How can we effectively embrace and release our own and others’ pain, particularly in the context of ancestral trauma and the suffering of cancer patients, without becoming overwhelmed?
• How can we help our energetic 5-year-old son find balance and manage his disruptive behavior at school?
• How can we support overwhelmed healthcare workers facing fatigue and emotional pain during the COVID crisis?
• How do shame and guilt function in Zen philosophy, and why are they considered important emotions?
• How significant is fasting in relation to training effectiveness?
• Is intentionally slowing down activities like breathing and walking beneficial for calming the mind, and what are the potential long-term effects?
• Is it acceptable for someone with a progressive lung disease to continue practicing meditation despite difficulties and concerns about disturbing others?
• Is it justifiable for a parent to end their life after failing to protect their child from harm?
• Is it normal to experience anxiety and panic during a Rohatsu Sesshin, or could it indicate a risk of psychosis?
• Is it normal to feel strong, random energy movements in the body during meditation, and how can I manage my fear?
• Is it safe to practice basic meditation for someone with anxiety and panic attacks?
• Is the strong energy and pain experienced during meditation a dangerous sign of ‘chi’, and what should I do about it?
• Should I focus on my pain or try to distance myself from it for better coping?
• Should I force myself to think more to improve my conversational skills while practicing Rinzai Zen?
• Should I stop using a timer for meditation if it helps manage my ego’s tendency to escape?
• What additional methods can be explored for managing chronic pain from a broken spine when traditional treatments are ineffective?
• What additional techniques or suggestions can I offer my young children interested in mindfulness and breathwork?
• What advice can you offer to someone feeling hopeless and struggling to find purpose in their life?
• What alternative meditation techniques can help someone who has experienced trauma and finds zazen counterproductive?
• What are effective strategies for coping with solitude and loneliness?
• What are effective ways for a 15-year-old to find purpose and happiness in life, and can Zen practices help with this, even in isolation?
• What are effective ways to recognize how attachments like alcohol and marijuana impact personal performance and well-being?
• What are effective ways to support individuals struggling with drug addiction?
• What are the impacts of addiction to entertainment and information on work, health, and relationships, and are isolation strategies effective?
• What are the origins of fear and how can I address my recurring feelings of fear related to survival and health?
• What are the reasons behind my anger and sadness despite having a happy life, and can Zen practices assist me in finding peace?
• What are the underlying reasons for the existence of anger?
• What causes the deep-rooted fear of letting go, and how can one overcome it?
• What could be causing my feelings of apathy and detachment after studying the Shurangama Sutra?
• What could cause a significant shift from experiencing peace during meditation to feeling turmoil and distress?
• What does it mean to possess self-confidence while remaining free from self-conceptualization?
• What does laughing mean to you in the context of seriousness and spirituality?
• What is the crucial point of self that must be protected for survival in autoimmune disorders?
• What is the purpose of emotions, and how can one find wisdom amidst strong feelings like anger?
• What is the relationship between sleep duration and mental clarity according to different perspectives, including Buddhist teachings?
• What is the significance of faith in Zen practice, and how can it help overcome doubts and anxiety?
• What psychological factors lead us to resist beneficial activities like exercise and healthy eating in favor of less productive options like TV and social media?
• What recent humorous moments have brought you laughter amidst global grief and suffering?
• What should we do when aggression and anger become normalized in a serious practice environment?
• What steps can I take to become completely open and vulnerable?
• What strategies can help manage fixation on emotions like irritability or repetitive thoughts about difficult situations?
• What strategies can help manage tinnitus and continue practicing despite the constant sound?
• Why do many meditation students struggle to experience the benefits of practice, often facing tension and frustration?
• Why has my meditation practice led to increased mental noise and distraction despite years of experience?

Mental States and Brahmaviharas

• Can a true man experience mental states beyond the four brahmaviharas of benevolence, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity?
• Do fears and desires truly vanish with a lack of attention, or do they remain hidden and require ongoing struggle?
• Do pure-minded individuals experience emotional reactions based on their belief systems?
• How can I differentiate between attachment and compassion in response to suffering, and how should I act?
• How can I differentiate between ego cravings or karmic influences and my true self in the context of feelings and emotions?
• How can I differentiate between my ego’s protective instincts and my intuition in social situations?
• How can I manage my heightened sensitivity to others’ energies while maintaining social interactions and my meditation practice?
• How can one avoid pointing out the faults of others while focusing on purifying their own mind, especially in roles like a parent, teacher, or citizen?
• How can one break free from the cycle of ignoring that persists from the past into the present?
• How can one distinguish between necessary and unnecessary thoughts in daily life?
• How can we effectively use our desires without being controlled by them?
• How do emotions influence our pursuit of truth?
• How does awareness relate to the functioning of the mind?
• Is my growing indifference to worldly concerns hindering my spiritual path?
• What are the distinctions between various states of mind, such as enlightened, infant, animal, and senile minds, and could enlightenment simply be a return to instinctual awareness?
• What happens to personal history, personality, and relationships if direct perception takes over the mind?
• What is the nature of human self-awareness and its relationship to personal change?
• What is the nature of the mind from which all sensations, emotions, and thoughts arise and vanish like a dream?
• What strategies can help in making the best decision at significant crossroads?

Modern Enlightenment Critique

• Are modern practitioners of awakening seeking comfort and power rather than true enlightenment, and who experiences this so-called great death?
• Can one achieve daigotetti while using cannabis, or is it impossible?
• Can the time and resources spent on meditation retreats be better utilized for charitable efforts to help those in need?
• Does achieving Enlightenment necessarily mean one possesses moral excellence, and can one be immoral despite understanding their true nature?
• Does satori always occur suddenly, or can it develop gradually through life experiences and spiritual wisdom?
• Does the high failure rate of the Eightfold Path suggest that Buddhism is ineffective or misleading?
• Does the nonsensical nature of Zen language hinder faith in enlightenment?
• Does the practice you promote truly lead to the end of duality and suffering, and where can I find those who have achieved this?
• Has society’s shift towards second-hand experiences over first-hand enjoyment affected human development and mindset?
• How can I continue my practice bravely while letting go of the idea that seeing nobody and no visual objects is enlightenment?
• How can one practice Zen with uncertainty about its beliefs, and can deepening occur despite doubt?
• How can the principles of one drop ZEN align with the environmental impact of traveling for sesshins?
• How did Buddha and Lingyun achieve enlightenment through their unique experiences, and does calming the mind with breathing play a role in this process?
• How is Zen manifested in contemporary America during these times?
• Is Dogen’s view on satori as a non-object contradictory to the encouragement to work hard for enlightenment?
• What are your thoughts on the marketing of mindfulness in relation to popular Buddhism?
• What external behaviors or traits can help identify an enlightened person compared to someone who is not enlightened?
• What lessons can we learn from the COVID-19 pandemic, and how can practitioners assist others during this time?
• Why are some Zen masters with a history of sexual misconduct still regarded as Dharma teachers despite their harmful actions?
• Why do realized individuals retain distinct personality traits and preferences despite their enlightenment?

Peace and Conflict

• Are our individual efforts for peace futile in a world perpetually plagued by conflict and suffering?
• Can experiencing deep peace and gratitude amidst sorrow be considered a teaching?
• Can the challenges faced during the pandemic lead to a stronger society and a deeper understanding of Zen for everyone?
• Can the inherent seed for war within us be eradicated through mindful awareness of our actions and words?
• Can we view a country like a body, focusing on its healthy aspects rather than just its problems?
• Did ancestors have teachings or koans addressing the threat of nuclear annihilation?
• Does failing to assist in violent situations equate to killing, especially when arms support leads to further violence?
• Does the inability to find peace in meditation indicate incorrect practice, and how can one be sure that Zen is the right path for them?
• Does the intense experience of heightened awareness during combat make sense in the context of life and reality?
• How can an ordinary individual promote understanding and dialogue between polarized sides in today’s world?
• How can I contribute positively to human society while feeling more connected to nature and experiencing a shift in consciousness?
• How can I contribute to positive change in a world filled with war, pollution, and consumerism?
• How can I effectively handle workplace pressure and jealousy from a colleague?
• How can I manage feelings of hate and aggression towards those who violate moral standards?
• How can I reconcile my feelings of anger and the urge to act against injustice with the reality of conflict in the world?
• How can laypeople respond to catastrophes like tsunamis and mass murders, particularly through the lens of traditional Zen practices?
• How can the apparent contradiction between Zen’s emphasis on non-violence and the fighting skills taught in martial arts be reconciled by practitioners?
• How can we reach individuals who cause harm to others and help them recognize their disconnection from life from a Zen perspective?
• How can we reconcile the benefits of medical knowledge gained through suffering with our moral peace?
• How can you differentiate between constructive criticism and disparaging remarks, especially when faced with hypocritical comments from someone who claims to be wiser?
• How essential is patience and tolerance towards distractions like noisy breathing in a zendo, and does this relate to compassion versus strict adherence to form?
• Is achieving inner peace through meditation sufficient to handle unresolved conflicts with others, or is further action necessary for resolution?
• Is it wrong to prioritize gentleness over assertiveness during sesshin instead of seeking to demonstrate power in sanzen?
• Is there a way to abide in freedom, or is it solely about constant practice amidst the arising of thoughts and forms?
• Is there true freedom from all forms of action, and how does one reconcile this with feelings of compulsion?
• Should understanding your true nature inspire action to change the world or promote personal peace and example for others?
• What are effective ways to achieve everlasting bliss and peace in the present moment?
• What are effective ways to achieve spontaneous actions without worry?
• What are effective ways to cope with the world’s cruelty while remaining aware of it?
• What are effective ways to engage and connect with the world around us?
• What connects subject and object, and why does true peace arise when this connection is severed?
• What role should Zen Buddhists play in the face of war?
• What strategies can a parent use to cope with the death of a child and manage feelings of responsibility towards their grieving parents?
• What strategies can help alleviate fear in children and adults caused by new restrictions like mask-wearing and illness concerns?
• What strategies can we use to effectively deal with uncooperative neighbors?

Philosophy of Being and Time

• Are we, as everchanging beings, a manifestation of time itself, and how would this understanding alter our worldview and way of life?
• Can one discover their true self independently, without guidance from a Master?
• Did you undergo a period of reflection and maturation after your significant experience before becoming a teacher, similar to historical masters?
• Does our existential discontent stem from a perceived separation from unity, and will it remain unresolved until death?
• Does realizing the non-existence of the self lead to understanding our true nature as emptiness and the significance of love?
• Does the Ox’s tail pass through the latticed window when phenomenal experience temporarily ceases?
• How can I balance rational learning with maintaining my true nature and sense of wonder?
• How can I discern if my attraction to Zen after years in Tibetan Buddhism is genuine or just ego-driven?
• How can I discern the right time to quit or continue without judging my thoughts and emotions?
• How can I explore the relationship between my perception of reality and my own mind, and should I focus on one over the other?
• How can I fully embrace my humanity to better serve the Universe despite the suffering I experience?
• How can love and wisdom be understood as one in your teachings, Roshi san?
• How can one balance the dynamic tension of holding both great faith and great doubt in their practice?
• How can one reconcile the recognition of non-existence with the undeniable experience of existence during meditation?
• How can the Self be realized if perception, shaped by the mind, obstructs it?
• How can we discern when to change or accept our circumstances, and what lies beyond free will and destiny?
• How did Einstein comprehend the concept of time dilation without meditation, or was it purely through intelligence?
• How does extensive training influence our understanding of history, economics, and politics, and can it help clarify past mistakes?
• How is focus understood and practiced in Zen philosophy?
• Is it beneficial to balance thinking and being present, or should one focus solely on mindfulness?
• Is our complex consciousness a mistake that leads to unnecessary suffering and separation from our true nature?
• Is the body considered the primary path to understanding or enlightenment?
• Is the body merely a sensation, and can consciousness be shared or deepened between individuals?
• Is the world we perceive truly real, or is it merely a cosmic hologram?
• Is there anything beyond physical form in our world?
• What are your beliefs regarding the existence of a soul?
• What aspirations do you have for your future?
• What concepts or entities possess inherent existence and are not empty of their own being?
• What does it mean to look at the present to understand the future, and can personal change occur through learning and effort?
• What does it mean to question one’s own existence and the concept of self as described by sages?
• What does it truly mean to be human, and can Zen help us discover our purpose in life?
• What does the concept of emptiness mean in various contexts?
• What is the inherent nature of humanity: good or evil?
• What is the nature and definition of God?
• What is the nature of the question being asked?
• What is the purpose of life and the illusion of separateness if we are all one and ultimately return to nothingness?
• What is the relationship between the holographic universe concept and Master Dogen’s teaching on satisfaction and hunger?
• What is the significance of adopting a thousand-year perspective?
• What is the significance of entering the world of zero in relation to the duality of the world of two and the unity of the world of one?
• What is the state of mind that transcends all space and time according to Roshi san?
• What is the true nature of practice if everything is ultimately nothing?
• Which is more essential for spiritual growth: kensho or samadhi?
• Who is the man without a place among the ten thousand things?
• Why do we feel our lives are in vain amidst the fleeting nature of time and existence?
• Why do we rely on external objects to understand truth, as illustrated by the morning star and other metaphors?

Practice and Self-Reflection

• Is the pursuit of pleasant mind-body states in practice a form of self-indulgence that distracts from a deeper search for truth?
• Should I combine mindfulness practice with koans for deeper clarity and connection to my life questions?
• Should we focus on self-inquiry or becoming one with our experiences in daily life as taught by Bassui Zenji?
• What are effective ways for a teacher to practice speaking skills during frequent interactions with others?
• What are the best ways to utilize my abilities effectively?
• What are the essential components needed to cultivate self-love?
• What are the potential dangers of practicing long meditation alone without the support of a sangha or zendo monastery?
• What does it mean to ‘polish one’s mind’ and how can we recognize its effects?
• What does it mean to cultivate a trustworthy mind, and how can we achieve that?
• What emotions arise when I realize I’ve lost focus on my breath during meditation?
• What is the most effective way to utilize sanzen time, and does it vary for each student?
• What is the obstacle to my own freedom as a seeker, according to master Harada Roshi?
• What is the value of years of meditation when many practitioners remain trapped in negative behaviors and emotions?
• What should I be aware of while experiencing a strong practice in Case 12 of Mumonkan, despite feeling like I have no idea what I’m doing?

Relationships and Acceptance

• Can a steady relationship based on acceptance exist despite the power struggles and primitive pleasure-seeking behaviors?
• Can I still connect with my mother who has Alzheimer’s despite her not recognizing me?
• Can individuals maintain meaningful connections in a busy urban life despite societal distractions?
• Can the contrasting perspectives of artistic discrimination and Buddhist acceptance coexist harmoniously in one’s life?
• Does practicing letting go lead to indifference in new relationships?
• Does the intention behind a teacher’s humiliation impact the student’s experience and ability to cope?
• How can a mother determine if her dedication and sacrifices are truly beneficial to her children, and when her work as a parent is complete?
• How can I best support a loved one who is seriously ill and afraid of dying?
• How can I best support my father through his throat cancer diagnosis and my grandmother’s death, despite physical distances?
• How can I differentiate between brotherly love and romantic love when my connection to others deepens through Zazen practice?
• How can I distinguish between love and craving while managing my anxiety about others’ intentions?
• How can I effectively connect with others and overcome feelings of isolation and loneliness?
• How can I learn to accept myself in order to let go and experience true love for others?
• How can I maintain my desire to help others while learning to detach emotionally from their problems?
• How can I maintain my Zen practice while my partner’s emotional turmoil disrupts my calm?
• How can I manage relationships with people who disrespect my boundaries while nurturing my own needs?
• How can I reconcile my desire to become a monk with my mother’s strong opposition and concerns for family continuity?
• How can I support my nephew who is facing a long prison sentence and has been isolated for two years?
• How can I support my nephew who is facing a long prison sentence and has experienced isolation?
• How can I support my partner in moving past his suffering when I practice Zen and he does not?
• How can I support my partner through her job search struggles while also taking care of my own well-being?
• How can one address dishonesty and insecurity in a committed relationship to restore trust and open communication?
• How can one discern if they are truly following their heart, especially when it causes pain to loved ones?
• How can one reconcile personal spiritual pursuits with the potential impact on loved ones and their well-being?
• How can we effectively surrender to situations as they are without resistance?
• How does sexual activity impact our zen practice and overall life experience?
• How has your spouse’s difficult condition influenced your faith and sense of freedom?
• Is it acceptable to embrace both suffering and joy as essential parts of life?
• Is it wrong to rely on a soul mate for inspiration while pursuing personal strength in Zen philosophy?
• Should I proactively guide children or wait for them to seek help?
• What are effective strategies for managing relationships with stubborn and overwhelming loved ones?
• What are the differences in spiritual practice between single and married life, and why do many spiritual masters remain single?
• What factors influence the formation or dissolution of relationships amidst the complexities of love and hate?

Religious Symbolism

• Can Christianity and Buddhism be viewed as earthly expressions of the universal principles of Yin and Yang?
• Do prayers have any tangible benefits beyond providing comfort to those who pray?
• How can the principle of the lotus and Buddha’s body be misinterpreted in a hedonistic and passive manner?
• What accounts for the ornate design of the Buddhist Temple compared to the simplicity of Tahoma monastery?
• What does an enso with a dot in the middle symbolize, and what might visions like this indicate?
• What does leaving the water symbolize for a Zen Buddhist in relation to Nietzsche’s concept of human amphibious nature?
• What is the significance of baldness among monks?
• What is the significance of Dharma names in Zen, their historical origins, and the meaning of a Rakusu?
• Why is the moon chosen as a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment in Zen instead of the sun?

Samsara and Dharma

• Are humans inevitably trapped in samsara despite Dharma practices aimed at benefiting others?
• Could low motivation and lack of practice be linked to ancient karma affecting my insights?
• Do we need to recognize our attachments or struggles before we can truly let them go?
• Does taking pain relief medication before death affect our karma if we are not fully aware at that moment?
• How can I express emptiness if I do not distinguish between Samsara and Nirvana?
• How can individuals with autism adapt traditional Dharma practices to accommodate their unique cognitive differences and needs?
• How can one effectively reduce desires and embrace a simpler life amidst urban temptations?
• How does the transfer of a heart’s owner’s information through transplantation affect our karmic connections?
• How should I approach the interconnected questions of suffering, impermanence, and the meaning of life?
• Is Dharma transmission equivalent to being recognized as a Dharma heir?
• Is there evidence for reincarnation, and does any part of us persist after death?
• What are dharma treasures and how can we practice non-possessiveness towards them in our sangha discussions?
• What are Hakuin’s criticisms of Bankei Yotaku’s Unborn teachings regarding transmigratory rebirth and the finality of death?
• What do the terms “Ten Quarters” and “Wheel of Dharma” signify, and what does it mean to revolve the Wheel of Dharma?
• What does it entail to fully commit one’s life to the Dharma on this spiritual path?
• What is a ‘karmic connection’ and how does it come into existence?
• What is the significance of birth as suffering in the first noble truth, and how does it relate to the concept of dukkha?
• Why do we experience the sadness of impermanence in life, especially when losing a loved one?
• Why must a deeply awakened Master undergo shugyo to open their dharma eye after reincarnation?

Spiritual Experiences

• Can our profound spiritual experiences impact those around us?
• Can our spiritual experiences be shared with others, or are they solely personal?
• Can Reiki be an effective support for our training efforts?
• Can someone truly sense or perceive the concept of an “old soul”?
• Can spontaneous experiences of thought-free moments lead to deeper understanding of samadhi?
• Can training through meditation enable out-of-body experiences and viewing oneself from an external perspective?
• Can you provide distant guidance in discovering the miraculous?
• Could my experiences of deep connection and meditative states indicate that I am experiencing Mushin in Zen Buddhism?
• Does Zen training incorporate techniques for lucid dreaming or out-of-body experiences?
• How are drugs being explored as a means to enhance spiritual experiences and the mind-body connection?
• How can I assist discarnate beings or souls that I become aware of, and do they require help?
• How can I care for the soul of a non-religious hospice patient after her passing, and is it appropriate to do so?
• How can I overcome fear that prevents me from experiencing kensho?
• How can I rekindle the doubt sensation experienced during my satori after 40 years of working with koans?
• How can one reconnect with the experience of satori and understand its permanence without actively seeking it?
• How can someone navigate the experience of Awakening or Satori without formal training or community support in a tradition like Zen?
• How can we differentiate Kensho from mere brain activity or a mental illusion?
• How does Taisen Deshimaru’s expression of longing to see a deceased disciple align with Zen Buddhist beliefs?
• Is my childhood experience of quiet observation in the garden akin to shikantaza or a natural koan practice?
• Is my meditation practice of maintaining open awareness and inquiry into life aligned with koan work or shikantaza?
• Is simply being in silence and surrendering enough for spiritual practice, or does it require more structure and concentration?
• Is the experience of complete rest and peace without self or suffering a form of enlightenment?
• Is this experience a state of Samadhi, characterized by unity and clarity?
• What advice can be offered for someone reflecting on 15 years of meditation and experiencing a profound shift in perception and purpose?
• What are effective strategies for achieving profound insights in meditation despite persistent obstacles?
• What are the meanings of Kensho, Satori, Samadhi, Awakening, Enlightenment, and ‘The Great Death’ in spiritual contexts?
• What are the ways to connect with and experience the life energy of the universe?
• What does the experience of brightness and warmth during zazen signify, and how can I manage the fear it brings?
• What experiences or changes might occur as I embrace the concept of becoming completely empty within myself?
• What insights can you share about spontaneous spiritual experiences like foresight and communication with the departed?
• What insights can you share about the transformative experience of a first sesshin and its impact on one’s life path?
• What is the experience of being in a vast, still bubble while observing the surroundings with complete focus?
• What should I do if I experience unexpected strong white energy during meditation with my eyes closed?
• What state of mind is experienced after achieving kensho in relation to the consciousness of one and zero?
• What type of experience did I have during my zazen practice that shifted my perspective on life, and is it more than just intellectual knowledge?
• When can I expect to achieve peace and awareness through my zazen practice, and is enlightenment a lifelong journey?

True Self Alignment

• How can we align our lives with our true selves and recognize when we are doing so?
• How does Zen philosophy interpret the concept of Quantum Healing in achieving true alignment and happiness?
• Is practicing awareness the primary goal of Zen, and can zazen awareness be taken too far?
• What additional practices can help me eliminate the deep-rooted ego that causes my suffering, despite my meditation efforts?
• What is the journey from the Mind to the Not Self?
• What is the meaning of ‘do not delude the true self’ and can the true self experience delusion?

Western Zen Buddhism

• Should Western Zen groups emphasize Buddha’s teachings in daily life beyond just Zazen practice?
• What essential practices and flexible rules should lay practitioners in the West consider for their spiritual journey?
• What is the current landscape of Western monks in Japan, particularly in Rinzai Zen monasteries like Sogenji?
• Will the Q and A section resume after Harada Roshi’s busy schedule, and how will we be notified?
• Will the Q&A sessions be paused again due to Roshi’s busy schedule?