Women in Buddhism: Prajapati’s  Path June 2012

This program offers an intensive meditation and study experience in the seclusion of the temple grounds. The temple practice is modeled after a Japanese Zen monastery with some Western modifications. The diet is macrobiotic and the modest  accommodations are shared rooms. Women and men are housed separately. Students will be carefully chosen for their suitability and understanding of this unique opportunity for young adults. An interview (by phone if necessary) must be arranged as part of the application process.

Traditional Soto Zen training includes meditation, study and work. Students will be assigned reading,  journal work and writing  prior in preparation.

After several days of orientation, students will join the lay community for a 5 day silent retreat (sesshin).

 Following the sesshin , which begins the first Friday after their arrival,  students will continue to live at the temple adhering to a daily schedule and participating in work-practice (samu): housekeeping , preparing meals communally and everyday activities as a core part of the practice of mindfulness in everyday life.

Each day a lecture and discussion period will be led by one of the faculty. Study, reading and writing  will take place during free time.While meals and meditation periods will be conducted in silence, emphasis will on compassionate and clear communication.