Practice-Study Training Tour

The RFPE of the CSZCM It is structured in six progressive cycles, focused on introduction, deepening and transmission of Zen.

Presentation

On behalf of the Soto Zen Camino Medio Community (CSZCM), I want to express our deepest and sincere gratitude to the Soto Zen Buddhist Community (CBSZ) y, very especially, to the teacher Dokusho Villalba roshi, for their invaluable work and dedication over more than 30 years in the development and promotion of a practice and study program that has served as inspiration for the creation of our practice-study training path.

I want to make special mention of the work carried out in the Serena Light Temple and in the urban centers assigned to the Soto Zen Buddhist Community, spaces where so many have been able to begin and deepen the practice of Zen. The structure of our tour reflects the same values ​​of respect for tradition, commitment to the Dharma and dedication to the Sangha.

This route that we now present, and which develops over six cycles, It has been carefully designed to continue the work of disseminating and practicing Zen in the context of our community.. Like the program promoted by the CBSZ, our journey is focused on the cultivation of practice, rigorous study and relationship with the teacher Dharma, essential elements in the Path of Soto Zen Buddhism.

Finally, We reiterate our gratitude and commit to continuing the work of disseminating and practicing Soto Zen Buddhism.. May our actions and teachings be worthy of this lineage and contribute to the awakening of all beings..

We trust that this map offers a clear vision of the spiritual and human journey we follow in the CSZCM and guide all practitioners to correctly position themselves on the path of awakening.

Daizan Soriano. Master of Dharma.

FIRST CYCLE

1. Goals

  • Introduction to Zen Buddhism.
  • Transmission of the spirit of Budismo Mahayana.
  • Study in a clear and systematic way the essential principles of Buddhism, from its origins to its global expansion, with a doctrinal and historical approach that facilitates the understanding and appropriate use of Buddhist vocabulary and concepts in Western culture.
  • Read and analyze key texts from different Buddhist eras and schools, in order to promote knowledge and application of Buddhism in personal maturation and its practical application to daily life.

2. Practice

The First cycle begins with the introduction to the practice of Soto Zen Buddhism and concludes with the Bodhisattva ordination.

3. Requirements

No initial requirements are required, salvo:

  • Respect for the Soto Zen Tradition and the teachers of Dharma.
  • Respect for the rules of coexistence of the CSZCM and the Zen urban centers attached.

4. Contents

  • Introduction to Soto Zen Buddhism.
  • Urban retreats (1 day or weekend).
  • Sesshin introduction to the practice of Zen.
  • Basic Introduction to Buddhism Course I.
  • sewing a rakusu and/or the kesa man-e (For those who wish to receive the Precepts of Bodhisattva).
  • Bodhisattva Ordination.

5. Commitments

When starting, there are no formal commitments. However, those who wish to deepen and receive the Precepts of Bodhisattva They must meet the requirements to advance to the next cycle.

6. Development

The First Cycle begins with the introduction to the practice of zazen, whether in a day or a Sesshin introduction, or participating in another activity, directed by the teachers of the CSZCM.

Urban Retreats

They are practice and study meetings of the Way of Zen that take place on weekends.. Its purpose is the theoretical-practical approach to Zen meditation.. Different activities are energized for learning and developing the cultivation of attention.

Introductions to Zen

They are practice days open to all those who want to have a first contact with the Way of Zen.. There are no requirements to participate in these sessions., except the natural respect for the place and the practice that takes place there. In these days the practice of meditation is taught (zazen), ritual recitations and everything that concerns the Zen way of life. Participation in these sessions does not imply any type of commitment to the Community, not even with the teacher Dharma. All those who want to continue delving deeper, must necessarily participate in one or more of these days, regardless of your previous experience in this or other Zen communities.

Bodhisattva Ordination

To receive the Bodhisattva Ordination these requirements are needed:

With the Bodhisattva ordination The First Practice-Study Cycle is considered to have been completed. Those who do not wish to access the Second Cycle, nevertheless, They can stay as long as they want in the First Cycle.

Practitioners who have satisfactorily completed it, They have the possibility of accessing the Second Cycle as long as they feel it in their hearts..

SECOND CYCLE

With the Second Cycle begins a practice committed to Dharma and with the Sangha

1. Goals

  • Delve into the practice-study of Soto Zen Buddhism.
  • Commitment to the Sangha through involvement in organization and maintenance.
  • Training in practice through sesshin and practice in urban centers.

2. Requirements

3. Contents

  • He was an apprentice
  • Deepening Retreats
  • Presence and participation in the practice center to which you are assigned.
  • Course II (PEB)
  • Annual Study Practice Program.

4. Commitments

The practitioner undertakes to:

It is understood that a practitioner has satisfactorily completed this level when he or she has fulfilled all the commitments made..

5. Development

The Second Cycle focuses on consolidating and deepening the practice of Soto Zen Buddhism, through a structure that encourages commitment to the Dharma, the Sangha and traditional forms of Zen practice.

5.1. Deepening Retreats

Deepening Retreats are essential activities within the Second Cycle. They aim to intensify the practice and study of Zen, providing a suitable environment for the cultivation of samadhi, introspection and communal harmony. To participate in them, The following requirements are established:

  • Be a member of the Practice-Study Circle: Membership in the Circle ensures that the practitioner actively participates in collective learning.
  • Have a game of Oryoki: Zen bowls are a central element in retreats, since they symbolize gratitude and interdependence.
  • Correct learning of ritual practices: It is essential that the practitioner masters the fundamental forms and liturgies.
  • Harmonious insertion into the community: The ability to interact with other practitioners from empathy, Collaboration and respect is crucial for a full practice.

5.2. Apprentice Training

Apprentice training establishes a commitment that goes beyond personal practice and points towards active participation in the community. During this cycle, the learner delves into essential aspects:

  • Study of Dharma: Reading and reflection on key texts of the Zen tradition, with teacher guidance and group discussions.
  • ritual practice: Perfecting the execution of ceremonies, including the use of the kesa.
  • daily practice: Regular attendance at sessions zazen at the attached center, including participation in cleaning tasks, organization and maintenance of space.

5.3. Course II of the Buddhism Study Program (PEB)

Course II of the Buddhist Studies Program (PEB) constitutes an integral part of the development of the Second Cycle.

5.4. Evaluation and Monitoring

During the cycle, The practitioner's progress will be continuously monitored through:

  • Regular interviews with the teacher and teachers: A space to share concerns, evaluate progress and receive personalized guidance.
  • Participation in activities: Active involvement in the organization and development of activities reflects the degree of commitment of the practitioner.
  • Practice Review: At the end of the cycle, The practitioner will have a meeting with the teacher to evaluate their learning and decide the steps to follow.

The development of the Second Cycle seeks to create a solid foundation for continuity in the Way of the Bodhisattva, strengthening the connection with the Sangha and with the principles of Dharma, as well as consolidating the necessary tools for full progress on the spiritual path.

6. Skills.

  • Lead sessions zazen in the dojos.
  • Use ceremonial instruments.
  • Perform the functions of assistant in the sesshin and conferences organized by the CSZCM.

Practitioners who have satisfactorily completed it, They have the possibility of accessing the Third Cycle as long as they feel it in their hearts..

THIRD CYCLE

1. Goals

  • Deepen the practice of Zen Buddhism.
  • Establish connection with the Lineage of Transmission through a disciplic relationship.

2. Requirements

  • Establish a disciplic relationship with a teacher Dharma of the CSZCM.
  • Have the authorization of a teacher Dharma to access the Third Cycle.

3. Contents

  • Retreats organized by CSZCM
  • Course III (PEB)
  • Course on the teacher-disciple relationship.

4. Commitments

The practitioner undertakes to:

  • Practice on retreats with your teacher Dharma.
  • Take the Zen Meditation Assistant Training Course.
  • Attend the Assistant-Instructors follow-up seminar.
  • Attend the Annual Assembly of members of the CSZCM.

5. Development

In this cycle Discipleship begins when a teacher of Dharma accepts the practitioner's request bodhisattva. If accepted by the teacher, From that moment on the disciple can continue the III Cycle as a disciple and member of the CSZCM.

The practitioner must ask his teacher, through a personal interview, your admission as a third cycle practitioner. During the Third Cycle, The practitioner will perfect his training in the practice of Zen by attending retreats organized by the CSZCM and the completion of the Zen Meditation Assistant Training Course. A close relationship with the teacher is essential.

6. Certification

Document accrediting the spiritual bond that the teacher grants to the DISCIPLE during a private ceremony.

Practitioners who have satisfactorily completed the cycle, They have the possibility of accessing the Fourth Cycle as long as they feel it in their hearts..

FOURTH CYCLE

1. Goals

  • Deepen the practice-realization of the Way of Zen through the Training of Zen Instructors.

2. Requirements

  • Have satisfactorily completed the Third Cycle and have the Zen Meditation Assistant certificate.
  • Have the authorization of a teacher Dharma to access the Fourth Cycle.

3. Contents

  • Retreats organized by CSZCM
  • Zen Meditation Instructor Training Course.
  • Follow-up seminar Assistants-Instructors.
  • Course IV (PEB)

4. Commitments

  • Practice on retreats with your teacher Dharma.
  • Complete the Instructor Training Course.
  • Receive a kesa 7 bands at the end of the Cycle.
  • Dress a Samue summer brown and winter brown.
  • Attend the Assistant-Instructors follow-up seminar.

5. Development

Practitioners who have completed the Third Cycle and want to access the Fourth, You must request it from your teacher. Dharma. With the consent of this, begins a year of specific training on teaching within the CSZCM.

6. Certification

Practitioners who have successfully completed the Fourth Level will receive the ASSISTANT ZEN MEDITATION INSTRUCTORS certificate.. For the delivery of this Certificate, the Council of Dharma will value the disciple's abilities, taking into account, preferably:

  • The assimilation of teaching content.
  • The correct understanding of Dharma.
  • Ethical behavior in accordance with Dharma.
  • The correct and regular practice of zazen, both in sesshin, like in everyday life.
  • The mastery of the liturgy of the CSZCM.
  • The capacity in resources and human relations.
  • Knowledge and practice of the rules of the CSZCM.

7. Skills

Practitioners who have obtained the Zen Meditation Assistant Instructor certificate, will have the following powers:

  • Lead Introduction to Zen Conferences.
  • Function as teaching managers of the Zen Centers.
  • Give introductions to the practice of zazen in urban centers.
  • Organize and disseminate CBSZCM activities in your city of residence, as well as in other locations.
  • Access the Fifth Cycle.

Practitioners who have satisfactorily completed it, They have the possibility of accessing the Fifth Cycle as long as they feel it in their hearts..

FIFTH CYCLE

1. Goals

Experimentation of the teaching function of the new Assistant Instructors.

3. Requirements

  • Certificate of aptitude to access the Fifth Cycle.
  • Have the authorization of a teacher Dharma to access the Fifth Cycle, obtained during a personal meeting.

4. Contents

  • Practice on retreats with your teacher Dharma.
  • Assumption of responsibilities in the organization of the Sangha.
  • Teaching practice zazen.
  • Follow-up seminar Assistants-Instructors.

5. Commitments

  • Deepen commitment through greater involvement in the organization of the CSZCM.
  • Lead at least one Introduction Day per year and/or accompany the teachers of Dharma in the sesshin as assistant instructor.
  • Participate in the Annual Monitoring Seminar.
  • Participate in the Annual General Assembly of the CSZCM and in organization and maintenance work.

6. Development

In the Fifth Cycle, the Assistant Instructor experiences the work of a teacher, both practically and theoretically, while continuing to deepen his responsibility and commitment as a disciple of his teacher. So, These experiences are contrasted with the teachers of Dharma and with the other instructors during the Annual Follow-up Seminar. On the other hand, the commitment of the Assistant Instructors with the organization of the CSZCM gets even stronger, which allows them to get to know closely, participate and learn from the organizational functioning of the Sangha.

7. Certification

A practitioner who has successfully completed the Fifth Cycle will receive the ZEN MEDITATION INSTRUCTOR Certificate..

8. Skills

Practitioners who have obtained the Zen Meditation Instructor certificate, will be supervised by teachers Dharma or other older instructors. They will have the following powers:

  • Give introductions to the practice of zazen in the centers.
  • Direct conferences and Sesshin Approach.
  • Direct the Zen Centers integrated into the CSZCM.
  • Organize the Zen Center of your city of residence according to the rules of the CSZCM.
  • Organize and disseminate the activities of the CSZCM in your city of residence and in other locations.
  • Participate in the media as representatives of the Community.

Practitioners who have satisfactorily completed it, They have the possibility of accessing the Sixth Cycle as long as they feel it in their hearts..

SIXTH CYCLE

1. Goals

  • Experience the practice of Dharma in the continued presence of the teacher.
  • Prepare the disciple for the Transmission of the Dharma.

2. Requirements

  • Have the authorization of a teacher Dharma to access the Sixth Cycle, obtained during a personal meeting.

3. Contents

  • Zuishin (follow the teacher).
  • Learning the task of transmitting the Dharma.
  • Learning the task of leading a Zen community and a sangha.
  • Intensive practice both in everyday life, as in the periods of sesshin.
  • Hôssen-shiki.
  • Transmission of Dharma.
  • Ceremonial Officiant Apprenticeship.

4. Commitments

  • Dedication, as a student and as a teacher, to the activities of the CSZCM, both religious and administrative.
  • Perform the ceremony Hôssen-shiki.
  • Perform the Transmission ceremony Dharma.
  • Receive a kesa 9 bands at the end of the Cycle.

5. Development

The Sixth Cycle is intended for those disciples who feel in the vocation and in the disposition to receive the Transmission of the Dharma. For this, especially in this cycle, the teacher-disciple relationship is fundamental. It is about the disciple sharing most of the time with the teacher, both in daily practice and in periods of Sesshin, Buddhist Studies seminars, organizational meetings, social projection, human relations, teaching, etc.

In this cycle, the future teacher of Dharma comes into full contact with the role of the teacher, learning from his doing, assisting him and imbuing him with his spirit in all the circumstances of his life.

This Cycle begins with the ceremony of Hôssen shiki (Dharma fight) in which the practitioner will be presented to the Sangha as an Aspiring Disciple for the Transmission of the Dharma (shuso).

In the event that the teacher considers that the Disciple Aspiring to the Transmission of the Dharma is ripe for it, Transmission of the Dharma during a private ceremony between the disciple and the teacher, just as it has been done in our tradition.

Our wish is that each cycle of this training journey inspires, guide and support practitioners on their path to awakening, always in tune with tradition and the values ​​that have been transmitted to us. May it be for the good of all beings.