04/13/2024, Shosan Victoria Austin, dharma talk at City Center.

Zen forms work both in clear and hidden ways. In this interactive lecture, given at Beginner's Mind Temple, Shosan Victoria Austin discusses the ancient chants, called dharanis, which sound like magic spells. At a deeper level, they function as rituals that hold teachings. Chanted with faith and energy, they build safe internal space — physically through posture, physiologically through sound, and mentally through key words of wisdom and compassion. Recited daily in Zen temples throughout the world, the Sho Sai Myo Kichijo Dharani (Jvala-Maha-Ugra Dharani, “Flame of Great Strength Dharani”) empowers us in resources. In times of disaster and conflict, more resources means less overwhelm. Through practice, we can take steps towards refuge and relief.