Lowcountry Community Zen
About Us
Our Story
The Charleston Zen Group was formed in 1987 to provide both a place and support for the practice of Zen in the Soto tradition. We are not affiliated with any specific lineage or teacher and practitioners from all traditions are welcome here.
Today
Currently we meet Sunday mornings to practice sitting meditation (zazen), walking meditation (kinhin) and chanting as well as to discuss topics related to Zen practice and its application in daily life.
The group does not have a resident teacher. Senior members share leadership responsibilities. Group members are encouraged to establish and maintain a relationship with a teacher if they choose to do so. To find teachers in our region, check out the Soto Zen Buddhists Association website, or the Atlanta Soto Zen website. Newcomers are always welcome, whether or not they have experience with Zen practice. We encourage newcomers to contact us before visiting so that one of our senior members can provide orientation and instruction as needed.
When a person attains realization, it is like the moon’s reflection in water. The moon never becomes wet; the water is never disturbed. Although the moon is a vast and great light, it is reflected in a drop of water. The whole moon and even the whole sky are reflected in a drop of dew on a blade of grass. Realization does not destroy the person, as the moon does not make a hole in the water. The person does not obstruct realization, as a drop of dew does not obstruct the moon in the sky. The depth is the same as the height. [To investigate the significance of] the length and brevity of time, we should consider whether the water is great or small, and understand the size of the moon in the sky— Ehei Dogen, Genjo Koan
Sunday Mornings at Holy Cow Yoga
- First sit
- Followed by 10 minutes of Kinhin
- Second sit
- Followed by 10 minutes of Kinhin* Newcomers arrive at 8:15 for instruction
- Third sit
- Followed by chanting and discussion
Donate Today
Charleston Zen depends on your donations to provide a comfortable and supportive community. Any donations are appreciated, but if you are a regular member, please consider setting up a monthly donation.
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