Glossary

Dana  Gifts, donations, giving.

Dharma  The teaching of the Buddha as an expression of Universal Law.

All phenomenon and/or its properties.

 

Gassho  A gesture used as a sign of respect and/or greeting with the palms together in prayer position.

 

Kinhin  Zen walking meditation.

 

Meditation Mudra  The way the hands are held when sitting zazen.

 

Oriyoki The practice of mindful eating using set of bowls.

 

Sesshin  A silent meditation intensive held over the course of several days.

• Nehan-e sesshin  spring retreat, Buddha’s Nirvana
• Tanio-e sesshin  spring retreat, Buddha’s Birth
• Denko-e shesshin  fall retreat, Gathering of Light
• Rohatus-e sesshin  winter retreat, Buddha’s Enlightenment

 

Shikantaza  The main practice of  Japanese Soto Zen Buddhism, which is “just sitting” or “Only concentrated on sitting," with the goal of achieving a meditative state free from thought.

 

Zabuton  A mat for a zafu pillow.

 

Zafu A meditation pillow or cushion.

 

Zendo  A hall where zazen is practiced; Zen hall.  

 

Hokoji was founded and survives on generosity. Through the spiritual, material, and monetary contributions — of those too many to mention here — the temple community quietly grows and nourishes. Your dana (donations) and volunteering are welcome.