Original Mind Zen

In this Dharma talk, Doshim talks about suffering and violence, and how to awaken from their clutches.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

This question haunts human existence, mainly because we are so accustomed to viewing the world in terms of means and end. We do certain things, like go to work and brush our teeth, with specific goals in mind--earn money and avoid cavities, for instance. But Zen teaches us that there is another way to live, in which every moment is complete in itself. Nothing is a means to an ends, but rather an expression of the ultimate moment--Now.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

We don't need to take our thoughts that seriously. In fact, the world would be a much more peaceful place if we recognized that thoughts are only thoughts.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

In this guest Dharma talk, Jonson Miller explores the nature of spontaneity in Zen, citing both Zen's Taoist roots and everyday examples.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

The source of human suffering is not the world or external conditions, but the way that we think. The human mind weaves a complex tapestry of concepts and beliefs which eventually ensnares its owner. Buddhism teaches us how to see correctly, through the prejudice of our thoughts.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

Awakening doesn't erase delusion; it clarifies it. The first step in liberating ourselves from the prison of ignorance is recognizing delusion in the first place. When we just see--without the need to respond--the destructive patterns of thought and emotion that ordinarily dominate our lives, we experience freedom.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

In this Dharma talk, Doshim discusses how all roads in Zen lead back to this present moment.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

Zen is not just an East Asian phenomenon; it is an expression of wisdom from all around the world, for it points to a universal human experience prior to words and concepts.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

While reading Zen literature can be helpful and discussing the Dharma is fun, the truth is always present. We don't need to go anywhere, read anything, attend any seminars or retreats--just open our eyes to our lives at this moment.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

Language can trick us if we think that it objectively represents reality. Words inevitably fall short. Zen teaches us to be ever aware of language's provisional nature.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.