HANAPEPE — The Kaua‘i Soto Zen Temple Zenshuji announced on Monday that registration for its half-day retreat — “Zen Retreat: Unlocking the Heart Sutra” — is available now online at www.eventbrite.com or by visiting Soto Zen Temple’s website at www.kauaisotozen.org.
“‘Unlocking the Heart Sutra: A Journey to Emptiness and Compassion The Heart Sutra,’ a revered text in Zen Buddhism, often appears paradoxical and enigmatic,” said Kaua‘i Soto Zen Temple President Jerry Hirata. “What message does it hold for us, and how does it guide us towards greater freedom and compassion?”
Led by Brian Butsudo Turner Sensei, the retreat that starts with registration at 7:30 a.m. on Nov. 18 at Kaua‘i Soto Zen Temple. The retreat is available to everyone, including those with no prior experience.
There is a suggested donation of $25 to help cover travel, and provide a humble dana to the teacher.
“If cost is a barrier for attending, we’d still love for you to join,” Hirata said. “Reach out to camerondavidwill@gmail.com to arrange.”
Psrticipants can expect to uncover the social and historical context of the Heart Sutra, discover the profound roots of Kanzeon, and learn how to experience “emptiness” directly from the source.
Butsudo Sensei, a compassionate and wise teacher traveling from the Dragon Lake Zen Center in Colorado, will touch on how to sit Zazen, stories and teachings of Zen Masters, and living a more vivid and compassionate life.
Brian Butsudo Turner Sensei brings more than 15 years of Zen practice within the White Plum branch of the Soto lineage.
With monk ordination in 2012, and Dharma Transmission in 2023, Butsudo Sensei combines warmth, humor and pragmatism in sharing the Dharma.
“Please join us for an enriching exploration of Zen practice,” Hirata said.
Information: Jerry Hirata 808-346-4650, or Kim Loh 808-855-5382.
