SOTOZEN-NET > What’s Sotoshu? > A Message from the Head Priest of Sotoshu in 2020

A Message from the Head Priest of Sotoshu in 2020

“Every single person, without exception, is a vessel of the Way.”

These are the words of Keizan Zenji. Originally, we are essentially an irreplaceable existence. Therefore, each and every person can live a brilliant life.

In the meantime, various social imbalances bring forth many forms of anxiety and we live our lives while suffering. We receive hardship and pain generated by the high frequency of natural disasters, and consequently we contemplate our sufferings and sorrows.

Our way of life is being questioned as we look toward a world of leaving no one behind.

Let's learn together.

Our actions in which we pursue our own interests has brought forth many conflicts. Let's study and learn about the state of the original self that exists in living together with others. It is within our activities that world peace is realized.

Let's pray together.

We live by receiving many blessings, both in terms of people and material things, including our natural environment. By cooperating with all these aspects of our lives, let us never forget the feeling of gratitude. Let us live with the bodhisattva's vow to create a world where people can live in peace regardless of generation.

Let's practice together.

Shakyamuni Buddha taught about wisdom and compassion. Through the practice of compassion and kindly interacting with everyone we encounter, this naturally encourages the mind of wisdom so that we can live a peaceful life in which we honor each other.

Dogen Zenji stated that “We should simply face everyone with a gentle countenance.” Let us sit calmly in front of the Buddha, put our palms together honoring our ancestors, and walk together with the aspiration that this can be a benevolent world where everyone can live happily.

Gassho

I take refuge in Shakyamuni Buddha

I take refuge in Koso Joyo Daishi Dogen Zenji

I take refuge in Taiso Josai Daishi Keizan Zenji

April 1, 2020

Fukuyama Taiho

Head Priest of the Sotoshu