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Master Okuda Roshi Zen and the Art of Living Friday October 3, 2003 Over 50 people sat together for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet one of the most important leaders of Japanese Zen in the Quaker room at the Abbey. The Abbey was honored to host this informal talk about Zen meditation (Zazen) and Zen philosophy, as it is applies to everyday life. Okuda ‘Roshi’ (Zen Master) was the head Roshi of the Obaku Zen lineage and Master of ‘Manpukuji’ temple, 
Obaku’s headquarters in Kyoto, Japan for over 30 years. Obaku is one
of the newer schools of Zen. Founded in 1644 by Chinese Monks. By
the Eighteenth Century there were some 400 Obaku temples throughout
Japan. Obaku introduced technology, and culture. They practiced a
creed of “good works”. People flocked to Obaku temples to learn about
Continental advances in science and the arts. Obaku calligraphy was
much admired, as was its bright “realist” manner. Portraits of eminent
monks (chinsô) were often given out as certificates of lineage, and
were influential in Japan. Obaku painting introduced a new range of
subjects as well as new styles. Okuda Roshi is now retired and one of Zen’s leading calligraphers. He was joined by his wife, daughter, son, (also a Zen monk,) and Tea Master, Kikuchi San. The evening concluded with Okuda presenting to everyone in attendance one of his calligraphs which he created as gifts to his American audience. While performing a special blessing in the upper Buddhist Meditation Room, Okuda presented to Lewis Randa, his Buddhist Alms Bag which he used for years in Japan to receive generous contributions for his trip to America. This extraordinary gift comes at time when the Abbey needs continued financial assistance to survive -- and is seen as most auspicious. We are especially grateful to Geof and Po D'Arcy (D'Arcy Naturals, Natick, MA) for bringing Okuda and his family to the Abbey and for all the many blessings that were showered on the Abbey and those fortunate enough hear Okuda. |