Treeleaf Zendo - Dharma Practices

Treeleaf Zendo - Dharma Practices https://forum.treeleaf.org/ en Sat, 25 Apr 2026 12:56:12 GMT vBulletin 60 https://forum.treeleaf.org/images/og/treeleaf-circle-og-logo.png Treeleaf Zendo - Dharma Practices https://forum.treeleaf.org/ Practices hosted at the hut https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/569294-practices-hosted-at-the-hut Thu, 23 Apr 2026 21:55:04 GMT Because Bird Haven Zendo has zazenkai on Mondays and Fridays local time, and I took an interest in doing a service five days a week, I host a Zoom... https://manzokuan.blogspot.com/p/morning-service.html and calendar at https://birdhavenzendo.blogspot.com/p/calendars.html. Chants rotate; we just finished a few weeks of Sandokai and are heading into Grass Roof Hut.

Access Zoom room here: https://birdhavenzendo.blogspot.com/...ual-zendo.html. Sorry for running long.

gassho
sat and lah, shonin]]> Dharma Practices Shonin Risa Bear https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/569294-practices-hosted-at-the-hut Stories of the Lotus Sutra - Chapter 12: Ananda and Rahula https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/beyond-words-letters-book-club/569119-stories-of-the-lotus-sutra-chapter-12-ananda-and-rahula Mon, 20 Apr 2026 19:57:28 GMT Hello, readers! I hope your Monday is going well. Can you believe it’s time for a new chapter in our book? This week, we’ll be meeting two of the... image-18.jpg Hello, readers!

I hope your Monday is going well. Can you believe it’s time for a new chapter in our book? This week, we’ll be meeting two of the people closest to the Buddha—Rahula, his son, and Ananda, his personal attendant.

In this chapter, we learn about both of them and the Buddha’s relationship with each, along with the usual commentary by Reeves. As you read, please notice how his commentary lands for you—does it feel accurate and helpful, or do you feel he sometimes reads too much into certain points? I’d really like to hear your impressions.

Reading Assignment: Chapter 12 – Ananda and Rahula

Read at your own pace and give yourself a little time to ponder. When you’re ready, come share your reflections. There are some rich topics and discussion points in this chapter, so I hope you’ll bring those into our conversation.

As an extra reflection, I invite you to consider how your own dharma practice has affected your relationships. How has your practice shifted the way you relate to others in your life, or how they relate to you?

We’ll gather for our Zoom meeting next Saturday, April 25th. I’m really looking forward to it and hope to see many of you there—hopefully, along with anyone who hasn’t yet been able to join us. We'd really love to have you with us!

For any other details regarding the book club method, please visit the Study Page.

Let’s chat!

With metta and in gassho,
sat lah
]]> “Beyond Words and Letters” Book Club Bion https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/beyond-words-letters-book-club/569119-stories-of-the-lotus-sutra-chapter-12-ananda-and-rahula Stories of the Lotus Sutra - Chapter 11: Great Treasure is Very Near https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/beyond-words-letters-book-club/568749-stories-of-the-lotus-sutra-chapter-11-great-treasure-is-very-near Mon, 13 Apr 2026 09:48:42 GMT image-17.jpg Hello, friends.

We turn a new page in our book and come across a familiar story: a gem, hidden inside a poor man's robe, makes him both rich and poor at the same time. This new chapter explores this parable in depth, along with other themes, and includes some interesting comments and interpretations by Reeves. It may be slightly longer than some of the earlier chapters, but nothing too intimidating.

Reading Assignment: Chapter 11 – Great Treasure is Very Near

Please read at your leisure, and when you're ready to share, come back here and let us know your thoughts. Do you feel we're circling the same topic, or are we discovering new facets of the Dharma Flower Sutra? Was the rich friend wise in the way he tried to help his friend? Do you also feel the poor man was too dumb, as Reeves says, to realize he had a gem all along? Is there something in this chapter that speaks to your own practice and life?

Last Saturday we had our Zoom meeting, and it was, as always, a wonderful gathering. If you’d like to watch the recording, you can find it on the Study Page. There is also a handout there with examples of traditional early Buddhist texts that are useful for understanding descriptions of arhats and nirvana that existed even before the Lotus Sutra was composed.

Enjoy the reading—I look forward to hearing your reflections on this chapter.

with metta, and in gassho
sat lah
]]> “Beyond Words and Letters” Book Club Bion https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/beyond-words-letters-book-club/568749-stories-of-the-lotus-sutra-chapter-11-great-treasure-is-very-near 109 of 108 Gates of Dharma-Illumination https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568582-109-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:21:17 GMT gate1.jpg
一百八法明門
IPPYAKUHACHI-HOMYOMON
One Hundred and Eight Gates of Dharma-Illumination

[109] The state in which water is sprinkled on the head is a gate of Dharma-illumination; for [with it], following birth in a family, we are at last able to realize anuttara-samyak-sambodhi.

Once again, thank you very much for your contributions to this review of the 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination. These are just the one hundred and eight gates of Dharma-illumination that all
bodhisattvas bound by a single life, when they are going to descend from the fourth (Tusita) Heaven to be born into this world, unfailingly proclaim to the multitudes of Tusita Heaven these one hundred and eight gates of Dharma-illumination, and thereby teach the gods, is the constant rule of the buddhas.

“Bodhisattva Protector of Illumination” was the name of Shakyamuni Buddha when he was in the fourth heaven as a bodhisattva.
When Ri Fuma compiled Tensho-koto-roku, he recorded the name of these one hundred and eight gates of Dharma-illumination. But, the students who have known them clearly are few, and those who do not know them are as common as rice, flax, bamboo, and reeds.

Hope to see you on December 22nd to start the 14th season of reviewing the Gates. Meanwhile, may you enjoy a fulfilling practice.

合掌,生開
gassho, Shokai
stlah
仁道生開 / Jindo Shokai
"Open to life in a benevolent way"]]> The 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination With Shokai Shokai https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568582-109-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination 108 of 108 Gates of Dharma-Illumination https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568576-108-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination Wed, 08 Apr 2026 14:43:20 GMT Happy Vesak to you all!!

20 Quaint gate.jpg
一百八法明門
IPPYAKUHACHI-HOMYOMON
One Hundred and Eight Gates of Dharma-Illumination
[108] The wisdom that leads us from one state to another state is a gate of Dharma-illumination; for [with it], having water sprinkled on the head, we accomplish total wisdom.

The wisdom that leads from one state to another—specifically from the state of suffering and cyclic existence (samsara) to the state of enlightenment and liberation (nirvana)—is known as Prajna. This wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge; it is a profound, experiential insight into the true nature of reality that changes how one perceives the world and acts within it, resulting in the ending of ignorance.
"Having water sprinkled on the head"; ceremonial sprinkling of water on a bodhisattva’s head, is said to be done when
a bodhisattva is about to enter the ultimate state and become buddha. During the Jukai Ceremony, water is sprinkled on the head of the Jukaiee; who then sits in the chair and is circled by the entire Sangha while the Preceptor recites a verse which declares them to be a child of Buddha, welcoming them into the family.

合掌,生開
gassho, Shokai
stlah
仁道生開 / Jindo Shokai
"Open to life in a benevolent way"

]]> The 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination With Shokai Shokai https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568576-108-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination 107 of 108 Gates of Dharma-Illumination https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568511-107-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:42:14 GMT gate 40.jpg
一百八法明門
IPPYAKUHACHI-HOMYOMON
One Hundred and Eight Gates of Dharma-Illumination
[107] The state beyond regressing and straying is a gate of Dharma-illumination; for it is replete with the Dharma of past buddhas.

The state beyond regressing and straying, often termed the stage of non-retrogression, represents a point where a practitioner is guaranteed to achieve enlightenment. It is characterized by unwavering wisdom, the cessation of ego-driven, karmic, and straying actions, leading to the full accomplishment of Buddhahood. Wisdom is crucial to reaching this stage, to avoid merely accumulating merit, ensuring the practice is true Buddhadharma rather than just virtuous acts. Balancing meditation and daily actions helps to eliminate emotional reactivity, allowing the mind to rest in calm awareness.
Releasing attachment and the perception of a permanent self allows for freedom from the cycle of karmic rebirth aswell.

So, we all have something to work on. this gate alone gives us lots to think about until the next review of the Gates. Before we move on to the final two gates, I'd like to thank you all for your contributions to this year's review and hope you'll join us again in December.

合掌,生開
gassho, Shokai
stlah
仁道生開 / Jindo Shokai
"Open to life in a benevolent way"
]]> The 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination With Shokai Shokai https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568511-107-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination 106 of 108 Gates of Dharma-Illumination https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568462-106-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination Tue, 07 Apr 2026 01:29:38 GMT 32 Quaint gate.jpg
一百八法明門
IPPYAKUHACHI-HOMYOMON
One Hundred and Eight Gates of Dharma-Illumination

[106] Attainment of realization of the Dharma of non-appearance is a gate of Dharma-illumination; for [with it] we attain affirmation.
Realization is reached by purifying the mind of defilements through dedicated practice. It is not separate from life. It is the ability to live in accord with the Dharma (the true nature of reality) in daily actions. Mahayana Buddhism interprets this as realizing the "Dharmakaya of realization" and "Dharmakaya of doctrine," representing the ultimate nature of a Buddha.

What, if any, is your greatest problem with realizng the Dharma?

合掌,生開
gassho, Shokai
stlah
仁道生開 / Jindo Shokai
"Open to life in a benevolent way"

]]> The 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination With Shokai Shokai https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568462-106-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination Stories of the Lotus Sutra - Chapter 10: A Fantastic Castle City https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/beyond-words-letters-book-club/568455-stories-of-the-lotus-sutra-chapter-10-a-fantastic-castle-city Mon, 06 Apr 2026 20:03:39 GMT image-14.jpg Hello, good friends in the Dharma,

I hope you're having a wonderful post-retreat Monday.

First, thank you for participating in the retreat, the zazenkai, and the Fusatsu this past weekend. We devoted a lot of energy to nurturing the bodhicitta we’ve been discussing, and I hope you feel supported and enriched by this more intensive period of practice.

As on every Monday, we now turn to a new chapter of our book. Reeves takes up the parable of the magical city and offers his commentary on it. You’ll likely recognize themes that echo earlier chapters, as well as some clear foreshadowing of what is to come. The Dharma Flower Sutra is quite relentless in returning to certain core topics, and we won’t be straying very far from them.

Reading Assignment: Chapter 10 - A Fantastic Castle City

I’m very much looking forward to reading your reflections. Take your time with the chapter: read, pause, and ponder—whether something arises in you immediately or the text initially leaves you unmoved.

???? We’ll meet again on Zoom next Saturday, April 11th, and I can’t tell you how happy that makes me. On our Study Page, you can watch the recording of our previous meeting if you haven’t yet, or if you weren’t able to join us two weeks ago.

Happy reading, and let’s talk whenever you’re ready.

P.S. I’d still like to encourage those of you who signed up for the book club but haven’t posted yet to share a few comments when you can. Everyone will benefit from your contribution.

With metta, and in gassho
sat lah]]> “Beyond Words and Letters” Book Club Bion https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/beyond-words-letters-book-club/568455-stories-of-the-lotus-sutra-chapter-10-a-fantastic-castle-city 105 of 108 Gates of Dharma-Illumination https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568401-105-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination Sun, 05 Apr 2026 20:39:46 GMT 19 Quaint gate.jpg
一百八法明門
IPPYAKUHACHI-HOMYOMON
One Hundred and Eight Gates of Dharma-Illumination

[105] Endurance of obedient following53 is a gate of Dharma-illumination; for [with it] we obey the Dharma of all the buddhas.

Endurance of obedient following is the patient, compassionate commitment to aligning one's actions, thoughts, and speech with the Buddha's teachings. It involves setting aside ego-driven views, enduring emotional discomfort, and upholding ethical precepts to gain freedom from suffering, rather than mere passivity or suffering. The overall sense of this thing is being intellectually receptive to the nature of the dharma. We “endure” or tolerate putting aside our own views and being in accord with reality, listening to and remembering what Buddha taught and then gently and patiently putting that into practice.

Care to add something from your own experience?

合掌,生開
gassho, Shokai
stlah
仁道生開 / Jindo Shokai
"Open to life in a benevolent way"

]]> The 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination With Shokai Shokai https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568401-105-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination 104 of 108 Gates of Dharma-Illumination https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568330-104-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination Sat, 04 Apr 2026 23:37:29 GMT 21 Quaint gate.jpg
一百八法明門
IPPYAKUHACHI-HOMYOMON
One Hundred and Eight Gates of Dharma-Illumination

[104] Attainment of the state of unrestricted speech is a gate of Dharma-illumination; for [with it] we cause all living beings totally to rejoice.

The attainment of the state of unrestricted speech, often referred to as the "ocean of eloquence," is a result of advanced spiritual realization, typically associated with Buddhas and high-level Bodhisattvas. It represents a state where speech is no longer restricted by self-clinging, ignorance, or emotional agitation, but is instead perfectly adapted to the needs of sentient beings to bring about liberation. The process involves abandoning four types of unskilful speech lying, divisive, harsh speech, or idle chatter;
Replacing them with truthfulness, harmonious speech, gentle words, and meaningful communication.

Although not attaining this gate, how do you use these types of speech in your practice??

合掌,生開
gassho, Shokai
stlah
仁道生開 / Jindo Shokai
"Open to life in a benevolent way"
]]> The 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination With Shokai Shokai https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568330-104-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination 103 of 108 Gates of Dharma-Illumination https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568295-103-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination Sat, 04 Apr 2026 01:07:34 GMT 22 Quaint gate.jpg
一百八法明門
IPPYAKUHACHI-HOMYOMON
One Hundred and Eight Gates of Dharma-Illumination
[103] Accomplishment of the state of dharanı, is a gate of Dharma-illumination; for [with it] we hear the Dharma of all the buddhas and are able to receive and retain it.

The accomplishment of the state of dharani refers to the attainment of a high level of spiritual power, characterized by the ability to retain, understand, and embody the teachings (dharma) without forgetting them. As a "state," it represents a deep, meditative concentration that empowers bodhisattvas to retain all taught doctrines and skillful means, effectively becoming a "vessel" of the Dharma. When a practitioner attains this state, their wisdom is no longer disturbed by worldly phenomena or the vicissitudes of life, meaning they can navigate the five aggregates without losing their connection to Nirvana.

Once again, few attain this gate but it doesn't hurt to try. Care to comment??

合掌,生開
gassho, Shokai
stlah
仁道生開 / Jindo Shokai
"Open to life in a benevolent way"

]]> The 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination With Shokai Shokai https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568295-103-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination 102 of 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568239-102-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination Thu, 02 Apr 2026 21:46:27 GMT 12 Quaint gate.jpg
一百八法明門
IPPYAKUHACHI-HOMYOMON
One Hundred and Eight Gates of Dharma-Illumination
[102] Entry into all conduct is a gate of Dharma-illumination; for [with it] we attain realization of the Buddha-eye.

"Entry into all conduct" signifies applying mindful awareness, ethical discipline, and compassion to every action of body, speech, and mind. It involves adopting a Bodhisattva perspective, recognizing interdependence, and letting go of ego-driven habits (clinging to the five skandhas) to avoid harm and promote wisdom in daily life. Acknowledging the "groundlessness" of situations and responding with compassion rather than attachment to outcomes.
Applying ethical training to professional and personal life, focusing on helping others Using ethical behavior to restrain unwholesome impulses and cultivate a clear, peaceful, and wise mind. By embodying these principles, every action becomes a practice, leading to a reduction in suffering and increased wisdom.

This Gate isn't as stringent as yesterday's. How does yhis one make you feel??

合掌,生開
gassho, Shokai
stlah
仁道生開 / Jindo Shokai
"Open to life in a benevolent way"

]]> The 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination With Shokai Shokai https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568239-102-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination 101 of 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568191-101-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination Thu, 02 Apr 2026 01:08:27 GMT 19 Quaint gate.jpg
一百八法明門
IPPYAKUHACHI-HOMYOMON
One Hundred and Eight Gates of Dharma-Illumination

[101] Entry into the state of unrestricted speech is a gate of Dharma-illumination; for [with it] we attain realization of the Dharma-eye.

"Entry into the state of unrestricted speech" is a concept referring to a high level of spiritual realization where speech is no longer bound by self-centeredness, false views, or the need for deception. It reflects a state of total freedom, eloquence, and profound understanding of emptiness and interdependence. This state originates from "unobstructed wisdom" (prajna), seeing clearly the impermanence of all things and the emptiness of the five skandhas. It is inherently compassionate and skillful, aimed at benefiting others and alleviating suffering.
This state represents a transformation where the practitioner, through sustained practice and wisdom, moves from restrained, careful speech to a spontaneous, natural expression of truth (the Dharma) that promotes harmony and enlightenment. This state represents a transformation where the practitioner, through sustained practice and wisdom, moves from restrained, careful speech to a spontaneous, natural expression of truth (the Dharma) that promotes harmony and enlightenment.

There is a saying in Buddhism; "Kill the Buddha." If someone were to tell me they had successfully attained this Gate, I would get as far away from them as possible! How do you feel about your chances of completing this gate??

合掌,生開
gassho, Shokai
stlah
仁道生開 / Jindo Shokai
"Open to life in a benevolent way"

]]> The 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination With Shokai Shokai https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568191-101-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination 100 of 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568126-100-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination Tue, 31 Mar 2026 23:45:21 GMT gate 41.jpg
一百八法明門
IPPYAKUHACHI-HOMYOMON
One Hundred and Eight Gates of Dharma-Illumination

[100] The wisdom-view is a gate of Dharma-illumination; for [with it] wisdom is realized and fulfilled.

Wisdom (prajñā) is not merely intellectual knowledge or accumulation of information, but a direct, experiential understanding of the true nature of reality. It is the foundational, transformative insight that penetrates the veil of delusion, allowing one to see phenomena as they truly are rather than as they appear to be. Recognizing that all conditioned things are constantly changing, passing away, and in flux. Understanding that clinging to impermanent things causes pain and dissatisfaction. And, that everything is devoid of a fixed, permanent self. It is continuously supported by mindfulness, leading to a "view" that is not a fixed opinion but a direct perception.

Take five to watch this clip then tell us how you feel.

合掌,生開
gassho, Shokai
stlah
仁道生開 / Jindo Shokai
"Open to life in a benevolent way"

]]> The 108 Gates of Dharma Illumination With Shokai Shokai https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/the-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination-with-shokai/568126-100-of-108-gates-of-dharma-illumination <![CDATA[A Chance to CELEBRATE with YOUR FAMILY: Hanamatsuri (Vesak) 2026! Buddha's Birthday!!]]> https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/celebrate-buddhist-holidays-with-your-family/568069-a-chance-to-celebrate-with-your-family-hanamatsuri-vesak-2026-buddha-s-birthday Tue, 31 Mar 2026 01:08:45 GMT https://www.treeleaf.org/2025/12/bud...-family/#vesak. What a great opportunity to introduce a bit of Buddhist lore and traditions to your family, especially to young children! It is the Buddhist Spring holiday! We have put together some small activities for this time, easy to do at home, such as a simple "bathing the Baby Buddha" ceremony, maybe a little fun "birthday party for the Buddha," some enjoyable activities for kids like making lanterns, taking walks in nature, and more! Please have a look, especially if kids at home.

You and your family are also invited to our Spring Retreat on April 4th, which commemorates Hanamatsuri. If you can't make the retreat live, it will be available to sit with in recorded form afterwards.

.
A bit about Hanamatsuri from our teacher, Jundo:

April 8th is traditionally celebrated as Buddha's Birthday in Japan, where the day is known as Hana Matsuri (花祭り), or the "Flower Festival"!
The event is marked on a different day from most of the rest of Asian Buddhism, where the date varies year by year according to the lunar calendar, usually late April or in May in most other countries. However, having two or more birthdays is no problem for a Buddha! Truly, his/her/their birthday is your birthday, and all is born every moment.... In Japan, at many temples, a small stature of the Baby Buddha is placed, and adults and children bathe the child in sweet tea.

Vesak is also a celebration of the Buddha's birthday, although it is part of Theravadan and Tibetan traditions. This year it will be observed on the first of May. Some of the same practices, such as bathing the baby Buddha are shared with Hanamatsuri, while lantern parades are particular to Vesak. If you're curious about our Buddhist cousins, Plum Village has a nice essay with photos here.

I'm looking forward to listening to your accounts of the Buddha's Birthday celebrated in your own family!

Gassho,
Shujin]]> Celebrate Buddhist Holidays With Your Family! Shujin https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/celebrate-buddhist-holidays-with-your-family/568069-a-chance-to-celebrate-with-your-family-hanamatsuri-vesak-2026-buddha-s-birthday