On the first Saturday of each month many of us gather for a deep study into a Buddhist sutra or other important Buddhist work. This started almost thirty years ago, soon after Tendai Buddhist Institute was established. Originally it was called ‘A Survey of Buddhism’...
Akemashite Omedetou Gozaimasu – (Happy Year). This is the year (2025) of the Wood Snake. According to East Asian astrology 2025 will be a mix of opportunity, difficulties, potential and renewal. Snakes shed their skin and emerge anew. In a similar fashion we should...
According to sutra Shakyamuni saw the morning star at dawn on the 8th day of the 12th month of the lunar calendar and attained awakening. This occurred after six years of arduous practices which prepared him for this final period of realization. He embarked on an...
Thirty years ago this month Shumon and I returned to the states after living abroad, first in Brazil and about six years in Japan. For almost two years before returning to the States we had planned on starting a village temple, modeled on Tamonin, the village temple...
In our spiritual communities we often focus on the leaders of these groups. In the Buddhist sangha we hope to support all the sangha members in their contributions to community. Leadership, both clerical and laity, are important in organizing and maintaining the...
Periodically we have an occasion to present shōmyō at Tendai Buddhist Institute. This is a form of classical chanting sutra and other sacred works in Japanese Buddhism, especially among Tendai and Shingon lineages. Boasting a history of more than 1,200 years shōmyō...
