SOTOZEN-NET

The Policy for Teaching Activities in 2009

The objective of the teaching activities of the Sotoshu is to realize, by means of the teachings of “Shakyamuni Buddha and the Two Founders” and through intimacy with the practice of zazen, that we are allowed to live our lives in a way that corroborates sociability.
Present-day society is in disarray and this is symbolized by contempt for life. It is apparent that we must carefully consider the question “What is it that we must do as one Soto priest and collectively as the Sotoshu?” When we listen to people’s hopes and sufferings and when we speak of strengthening the bonds between the Buddha and ourselves, between our ancestors and ourselves, between people, and between people and Nature, we must see that people are sincerely looking for the Bodhisattva practice that builds connections filled with sympathy.
We have established the following policy so that we can further promote the issues of human rights, peace, and the environment and also so that this year we can practice the virtue of kind speech everyday:

1. To work at spreading the practice of chanting “Namu Shakyamuni Buddha.”

We will walk together, always feeling that the Buddha is close, bringing this practice to our bodies. This is where the meaning of the practice of chanting “Namu Shakyamuni Buddha” lies.

2. Working at activities to end all discrimination and educating people about human rights.

We aspire to be people who do not harm others, who practice the mind of compassion, who empathize with other people’s sadness and suffering, and furthermore, who will proceed toward a society where such difficulties are dissolved.

3. Aspiring to realize a peaceful society where people can share each other’s joy.

By looking straight at the mistakes of the past and the disasters of war, we vow not to engage in war. We will walk together with others on the path of understanding and cooperation in order to realize a society that is peaceful for all people.

4. Thinking of the way our lives are supported by the greatness of Nature, we will continue the “Sotoshu Movement to Maintain the Earth’s Environment.” (Green plan).

Holding deeply in our minds that we are one with Nature, we will consider the future of the Earth and will live a life of practice near at hand that is environmentally friendly.

5. As we encounter other people, we will do all sorts of Bodhisattva practices.

We will act together with others so that other people’s peace and comfort is our peace and comfort. By drawing close to the minds of those people near us who have all sorts of difficulties, we will constructively do bodhisattva practice such as volunteer work without expecting anything in return.