Seattle Soto Zen

Prajna — Kanshin Allison Tait

Seeing the Nature: Prajna and the Platform Sutra In this Dharma talk, we explore the Platform Sutra of the Sixth Ancestor, Huineng, focusing on prajna (wisdom), kensho (

The Platform Sutra, Part 1: The Woodcutter Who Changed Zen - Kyosen Mark

The Platform Sutra, Part 1: The Woodcutter Who Changed ZenWhat can an illiterate woodcutter teach us about awakening? In this opening class on The Platform Sutra, we exp

Warm Hand to Warm Hand: Reflections on Dharma Transmission - Kanshin Allison Tait

Fresh from receiving Dharma transmission, Seattle Sōtō Zen guiding teacher Kanshin reflects on the ceremonies, traditions, and personal experiences surrounding this signi

The Wild Fox and the Web of Karma: Cause, Effect, and Practice in Zen - Shindo Steve Given

Through the Zen koan of Baizhang’s Wild Fox, this Dharma talk explores karma, cause and effect, and the interconnected nature of our lives. Practice does not free us from

Sangha Jewel - Kanshin Allison Tait

What does it mean to truly belong to a sangha? In this talk welcoming new members to Seattle Soto Zen, Kanshin reflects on community as a shared practice—learning to supp

Enjoy the Dharma! by Kanshin Allison Tait

What does it mean to truly enjoy Zen practice? In this talk, Kanshan explores joy, presence, and the meaning of practicing without a “gaining idea.” Drawing on Suzuki Ros

Four Friendly Facts by Kanshin Allison Tait

This Dharma talk explores the Four Noble Truths through Robert Thurman’s playful framing of the “Four Friendly Fun Facts.” Looking at suffering as something to understand

The Field of Happiness Robe - Kanshin Allison Tait

In this Dharma talk, Kanshin explores the history, symbolism, and sometimes surprisingly contentious traditions surrounding Buddhist robes in Soto Zen. From the origins o

The True Dragon - Fukan Zazengi (Part 13)

This talk concludes Seattle Soto Zen’s exploration of Dogen Zenji’s Fukanzazengi, reflecting on the limits of our perception and the transformative challenge of sincere Z

This Pivotal Opportunity - Fukan Zazengi (Part 12)

This Dharma talk explores Dogen’s reminder in Fukanzazengi that human life offers a rare opportunity for practice—and that we shouldn’t waste it. Through teachings on the

What Is Buddha? - Shindo Steve Given

Shindo Steve Given - August 2nd 2026 - Suggested Donation $5 - Through the koan “What is Buddha? Three pounds of flax,” this talk explores the limits of language and our

Total Engagement in Immovable Sitting - Fukan Zazengi (Part 11)

Total Engagement in Immovable Sitting - Fukan Zazengi (Part 11) - Kanshin Allison Tait - July 26th 2026 - Suggested Donation $5 - The talk explores Dōgen’s teaching that

The Acrostic Jewel Mirror - Genzen Ed Cadman

The Acrostic Jewel Mirror - Genzen Ed Cadman - Talk Date: 03/29/26 - Suggested Donation $5 - Genzen Ed Cadman reflects on the Song of the Jewel Mirror Samadhi, exploring

The Dharma Gate of Repose and Bliss - Fukan Zazengi (Part 8)

The Dharma Gate of Repose and Bliss - Fukan Zazengi (Part 8) - Kanshin Allison Tait - Suggested Donation $5

Everydayness - Fukan Zazengi (Part 10) - Daiho Chris Middleman

Everydayness - Fukan Zazengi (Part 10) - Daiho Chris Middleman - 07/12/26 - Suggested Donation $5 - Drawing on Dogen’s Fukanzazengi, this talk explores Zen practice as so

When You Rise - Fukan Zanzengi (Part 9)

When You Rise - Fukan Zanzengi (Part 9) - Kanshin Allison Tait - 07/05/26 - Suggested Donation $5

Turn The Light Around - Fukan Zazengi (Part 4)

Turn The Light Around - Fukan Zazengi (Part 4) - Kanshin Allison Tait -  May 17th 2026 - Suggested Donation $5

Sanzen Instructions - Fukan Zazengi (Part 5)

Samzen Instructions - Fukan Zazengi (Part 5) - Kanshin Allison Tait - May 24th 2026 - Suggested Donation $5

Zazen Body - Fukan Zazengi (Part 6)

Zazen Body - Fukan Zazengi (Part 6) - Kanshin Allision Tait - May 31 2026 - Suggested Donation $5

Bowing into the Life of Vow - Eko Jeff Kelley

Bowing into the Life of Vow - Eko Jeff Kelley - 06/07/2026 - Suggested Donation $5 - This talk explores bowing as a practice of humility, surrender, and connection. Usin