The Baker Roshi Audio Archive

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Showing 542 talks

Title	Speaker	Date
Engage Enlightenment Through Daily Practice Serial: RB-00273 The talk focuses on setting forth the mind and cultivating the way through practices like the six paramitas. It explores naming the unnameable, the distinction between activity and information, and emphasizes practical engagement... *Compassion, Manjushri, Patience, Passions, Priest*	Richard Baker	Apr 03 1975
Embodied Zen in Everyday Life Serial: RB-00305 This talk examines the practice of setting forth the mind and cultivating the way through the six paramitas and unnameable aspects of life. It discusses the differences between activity and information, emphasizing that Buddhist... *Sambhogakaya, Priest, Patience, Bell, Cultivation*	Richard Baker	Apr 03 1975
Every Day a Good Day Serial: RB-00272 The talk emphasizes the centrality of personal experience and realization in Zen, suggesting that true understanding cannot be taught but must be discovered individually. Referencing Blue Cliff Record case number six, the... *Observe, Seigen Gyoshi, Shuso Ceremony, Sangha, Lineage*	Richard Baker	Apr 02 1975
Realize Zen Beyond Words Serial: RB-00304 This talk emphasizes the fundamental Zen teaching that true understanding comes from personal realization rather than external instruction. Specific references include the Blue Cliff Records, the teachings of various historical... *Observe, Seigen Gyoshi, Shuso Ceremony, Sangha, Lineage*	Richard Baker	Apr 02 1975
Just One Thing: Zen Focus Serial: RB-00271 This talk explores the practice of Sashin and Zen, focusing on the concept of doing "just one thing" to unravel deeper existential questions and reflect on human experiences. It contrasts Zen with Pure Land Buddhism, highlighting... *Sangha, Community, Religion, Nirvana, Doubt*	Richard Baker	Apr 01 1975
Focus and Faith in Enlightenment Serial: RB-00303 This talk explores the importance of single-minded focus during Sesshin and the larger implications of such practice. It compares Pure Land Buddhism with Zen practice, suggesting Pure Land's emphasis on belief parallels Zen's... *Sangha, Community, Religion, Nirvana, Doubt*	Richard Baker	Apr 01 1975
Zen Birth: Embracing Interconnected Presence Serial: RB-00270 The talk emphasizes the transformative nature of Zen practice, comparing it to a birthing process requiring care, trust, and humility. It discusses the importance of mutual participation in spiritual growth, highlighting the... *Humility, Rinzai, Avalokiteshvara, Pain, Aspects of Practice*	Richard Baker	Feb 21 1975
Zen's Transformative Path: Trust and Unity Serial: RB-00288 This talk explores the transformative nature of Zen practice, emphasizing its role as an experiential journey akin to a birth or creation process requiring trust and humility. It underscores the importance of shared vision and... *Humility, Rinzai, Avalokiteshvara, Pain, Aspects of Practice*	Richard Baker	Feb 21 1975
Unveiling True Self Through Zen Serial: RB-00287 The talk focuses on the core essence of Buddhism, emphasizing the stripping away of preconceived notions to understand the true self and achieve a form of enlightenment. It highlights specific Zen stories and koans to elucidate... *Intention, Rinzai, Bowing, Freedom, Avalokiteshvara*	Richard Baker	Feb 20 1975
Zen Stories: Path to Self-Awareness Serial: RB-00553 The talk primarily explores the themes of Zen practice and understanding, using analogies and stories to illuminate complex philosophical concepts. The speaker delves into koans and Zen stories by figures such as Rinzai,... *Intention, Rinzai, Freedom, Avalokiteshvara, Priest*	Richard Baker	Feb 20 1975
Embodying Eastern Wisdom in West Serial: RB-00552 The talk discusses the integration of Asian Buddhism into Western practice, emphasizing the importance of forms, symbols, and traditions in enhancing spiritual understanding and practice. Concepts such as Buddhist vows, non-... *Vow, Gratitude, Happiness, Freedom, Intention*	Richard Baker	Feb 19 1975
Buddhism Beyond Boundaries and Identities Serial: RB-00285 The talk focuses on Buddhist teachings and practice, emphasizing the interconnectedness of teacher and student, the importance of daily life details in Buddhism, and the influence of cultural perspectives on the understanding and... *Faith, Community, Zendo, Truth, Sangha*	Richard Baker	Feb 18 1975
Living Zen: Practice as Path Serial: RB-00551 The talk focuses on the teaching and practice of Buddhism not only as an instructional endeavor but as a way of life. It emphasizes the interconnection between the teacher and the student, underscoring that Buddhist teachings are... *Community, Zendo, Faith, Truth, Sangha*	Richard Baker	Feb 18 1975
Zen Embodied: Posture and Presence Serial: RB-00283 The talk centers on the importance of developing what is referred to as a "will-body" to sustain practice and understanding in Zen. It discusses the necessity of posture in meditation practice, cautioning against overly... *Vow, Baso, Posture, Sesshin, Offering*	Richard Baker	Feb 17 1975
Commitment in Zen Practice Serial: RB-00549 The talk centers on developing the "will body" crucial for consistent Zen practice, addressing practices like zazen postures and the limitations of using down jackets, which can impede proper energy and heat regulation. The... *Vow, Baso, Kinhin, Posture, Sesshin*	Richard Baker	Feb 17 1975
Mindful Posture, Timeless Practice Serial: RB-00178 The talk focuses on the life and teachings of Suzuki Roshi, particularly his experiences growing up in the challenging socio-political environment of post-Meiji Japan and his dedication to revitalizing Buddhism. It discusses his... *Priest, Evil, Heart Sutra, Aspects of Practice, Posture*	Richard Baker	Feb 16 1975
Embodied Zen: Beyond Thought and Form Serial: RB-00548 The talk outlines Suzuki Roshi's early life experiences and his perception of Buddhism's decline during the Meiji period. It addresses his motivation for becoming a priest, influenced by teacher Oka Sotan and the desire to... *Priest, Evil, Heart Sutra, Aspects of Practice, Posture*	Richard Baker	Feb 16 1975
Transforming Desire into Enlightened Action Serial: RB-00547 The talk focuses on the complexity of desire, the pitfalls of spiritual practice, and the interplay between the practices of Manjushri and Samantabhadra in Buddhist traditions. The discussion emphasizes the provisional nature of... *Manjushri, Vow, Love, Passions, Funeral*	Richard Baker	Feb 14 1975
Living Zen: Embodying Wisdom Daily Serial: RB-00545 The talk explores the integral role of posture, particularly the half or full lotus pose, in Zen practice, emphasizing its significance beyond mere physicality to embodying wisdom and the essence of Buddhist life. It also... *Posture, Priest, uchiyama, Ceremony, Money*	Richard Baker	Feb 06 1975
Ready Minds in Spiritual Practice Serial: RB-00176 This talk explores the readiness for commitment, the importance of preparation over immediate understanding, and the role of spirituality in perceiving the nature of life deeply. Key Zen stories such as those involving Seppo and... *Commitment, Tozan, Chanting, Five Ranks, Observe*	Richard Baker	Dec 07 1974
Zen Readiness and Spiritual Clarity Serial: RB-00543 The talk focuses on the process of understanding and developing spiritual and philosophical insights through Zen practice, using various Zen stories and analogies. Emphasis is placed on commitment, readiness, and observation as... *Commitment, Chanting, Observe, Rinzai, Tozan*	Richard Baker	Dec 07 1974
Zen and Modern Tools Serial: RB-00625 The talk discusses the history and practical uses of down in outdoor equipment, highlighting the shift from traditional heavy materials to modern down products influenced by developments around WWII. This introduction sets the... *Rinzai, Tozan, Tenzo, Buddha Nature, Sekito Kisen*	Richard Baker	Dec 06 1974
Zen and the Art of Warmth Serial: RB-00542 The talk focuses on the use and history of down in camping equipment, the comparison of Japanese and Western clothing for maintaining body heat, and various Zen teachings and practices. It examines the adoption of modern hiking... *Rinzai, Tenzo, Tozan, Buddha Nature, Joshu*	Richard Baker	Dec 06 1974
Embracing Reality Through Zen Practice Serial: RB-00289 The talk explores the concept of real choice and the importance of encountering genuine circumstances to better access personal strength and understanding. It emphasizes the significance of facing realities, emotional honesty,... *Anger, Zazen Mind, Concentration, Samadhi, Sangha*	Richard Baker	Dec 05 1974
Embracing Instincts Through Zen Practice Serial: RB-00540 The talk delves into themes of real choice, the nature of personal strength, and the experience of consciousness within Zen practice. It highlights how isolating oneself from experiences, such as the environment or emotions,... *Anger, Samadhi, Zazen Mind, Zendo, Concentration*	Richard Baker	Dec 05 1974
Roots of Enlightenment Practice Serial: RB-00286 The talk focuses on the preparation for enlightenment and the importance of having a real context of choice. It discusses Zen practice, monastic life, and their roles in fostering a connection with the roots of culture and... *Community, Interdependence, Two Truths, Anger, Money*	Richard Baker	Dec 04 1974
Zen Roots for Modern Life Serial: RB-00539 This talk delves into the importance of returning to fundamental sources in spiritual practice and daily living, highlighting the influence of Zen teachings and monastic life. It emphasizes the preparation necessary for... *Community, Interdependence, Two Truths, Anger, Money*	Richard Baker	Dec 04 1974
Reimagining Society through Zen Practice Serial: RB-00212 The talk delineates how our thought processes are conditioned by the five skandhas (form, feelings, perceptions, impulses, and consciousness) and the transformative potential when perceiving space over form. Emphasis is placed on... *Sangha, Politics, Lotus Sutra, Community, Posture*	Richard Baker	Dec 03 1974
Title: Refining Impulses Through Zen Practice Serial: RB-00537 This talk discusses themes related to Zen practice, particularly focusing on the five skandhas and the significance of impulses. It underscores the conditioned nature of perception and the importance of recognizing and refining... *Sangha, Politics, Lotus Sutra, Community, Posture*	Richard Baker	Dec 03 1974
The Unborn Path to Realization Serial: RB-00211 The talk emphasizes the dual nature of self-realization as both exceedingly simple and exceedingly difficult, discussing human weaknesses and societal influences. It references Banke's teachings on the "unborn" and argues that... *Joshu, realization, Ordinary Mind, Death*	Richard Baker	Dec 02 1974
Pathways to Natural Realization Serial: RB-00536 This talk explores the complexity and ease of realizing one's nature, emphasizing the duality inherent in human efforts and limitations. It provides an in-depth examination of the analogical thinking underpinning our existential... *Joshu, realization, Ordinary Mind, Death*	Richard Baker	Dec 02 1974
Crossing Boundaries in Zen Practice Serial: RB-00175 The talk delves into how "pivotal attitudes" influence one's approach to Zen practice, beginning with language analysis and extending into cultural norms such as clothing and human interactions with the environment. The... *Death, American, Shuso Ceremony, Samadhi, Pain*	Richard Baker	Dec 01 1974
Transcending Boundaries in Zen Practice Serial: RB-00535 The talk explores pivotal attitudes and the concept of boundaries within Zen practice. It begins by discussing deeply ingrained beliefs and their influence on our actions and perceptions. This is followed by an examination of... *Death, American, Shuso Ceremony, Samadhi, Pain*	Richard Baker	Dec 01 1974
Sesshin as Continuous Practice Serial: RB-00174 The talk on November 30th, 1974, primarily challenges conventional understandings of sesshin and zazen practice. It emphasizes that sesshin should not be viewed as fragmented periods of concentrated zazen but as a continuous... *Posture, Concentration, Kinhin, Intimacy, Continuous Practice*	Richard Baker	Nov 30 1974
Wholehearted Living Through Sesshin Serial: RB-00534 The talk discusses the concept of sesshin and challenges commonly held perceptions about it. Rather than striving for concentrated zazen or reaching a highly focused state, sesshin should be seen as an integrated experience of... *Posture, Concentration, Instruction, Kinhin, Intimacy*	Richard Baker	Nov 30 1974
Zen and the Craft of Choice Serial: RB-00532 The talk, dated November 21st, 1974, addresses the crucial themes of awareness, failure, and the intersection of Zen practice with cultural and disciplinary contexts. The discussion begins with a reference to a poem by Cavafy,... *Buddha Mind, Balance, Priest, training, Okesa*	Richard Baker	Nov 21 1974
Respectful Conduct in Zen Practice Serial: RB-00173 This talk discusses accurate conduct within Zen practice, focusing on reinterpreting the precepts beyond simple rules to adhere to. The discussion emphasizes understanding the precepts of not using power to harm and the... *Intention, Money, Anger, Joshu, Precepts*	Richard Baker	Nov 01 1974
Mindful Conduct in Everyday Zen Serial: RB-00531 The talk delves into the understanding of conduct within the framework of Zen practice, reminding that the precepts are not rigid rules but guidelines for cultivating awareness and personal strength. Emphasis is placed on the... *Money, Intention, Anger, Joshu, Precepts*	Richard Baker	Nov 01 1974
Experience Zen Directly Serial: RB-00172 This talk primarily examines how direct understanding and embracing one's immediate experiences, without discrimination, can advance one's Zen practice. Various Zen stories and teachings highlight the importance of non-... *Rinzai, Instruction, Fox, Doubt, First Principle*	Richard Baker	Oct 31 1974
Zen Encounters Beyond Thought Serial: RB-00529 The talk emphasizes the importance of cultivating one's own "area of familiarity" to deepen understanding and direct experience in Zen practice. Through stories of Zen figures such as Toksan, Isan, and Ryutan, it highlights the... *Rinzai, Instruction, Fox, Doubt, First Principle*	Richard Baker	Oct 31 1974
Zen Wisdom in Everyday Adversity Serial: RB-00210 The talk explores the intersection of personal experiences with Zen philosophy, focusing on how one navigates real-life challenges without losing alignment with spiritual principles. The narrative uses a recent dental mishap and... *Joshu, Doubt, Enemies, First Principle, Truth*	Richard Baker	Oct 30 1974
Zen in Every Moment Serial: RB-00528 This talk primarily explores themes of perception, decision-making, and the interplay of actions and outcomes, starting with a personal anecdote about dental experiences and transitioning into broader philosophical reflections... *Joshu, Doubt, First Principle, Truth, Enemies*	Richard Baker	Oct 30 1974
Zen Dialogues: Beyond Grasping and Granting Serial: RB-00209 The talk centers on an exploration of story number four from "The Blue Cliff Record," focusing on the encounter between Zen masters Toksang and Isan. The discussion addresses the interpretation of their interactions as a metaphor... *Tozan, Blue Cliff Record, Sixth Patriarch, Lineage*	Richard Baker	Oct 29 1974
Zen's Dual Pathways Revealed Serial: RB-00527 The talk dissects Blue Cliff Record story number four, focusing on the encounter between Tokusan and Isan. It highlights the interpretative differences in Zen teaching methodologies, contrasting dramatic and quietistic approaches... *Tozan, Blue Cliff Record, Sixth Patriarch, Lineage*	Richard Baker	Oct 29 1974
Embodying Nature Through Zen Action Serial: RB-00208 The talk on October 28th, 1974, discusses the interplay of Vajrasana practice in aligning with one's nature, the importance of action in Zen, and the necessity of comprehensive experience to grasp teachings like koans. A... *Thich Nhat Hanh, Issan, Tenzo, Precepts, Bowing*	Richard Baker	Oct 28 1974
Polishing the Jewel of Zen Serial: RB-00526 The lecture explores the confluence of individual nature and universal essence through the practice of Zazen. Emphasis is placed on how Zen practice enables practitioners to act on the insights gained during meditation, thereby... *Issan, Tenzo, Precepts, Bowing, First Principle*	Richard Baker	Oct 28 1974
Beyond Duality: Experiencing True Existence Serial: RB-00207 The primary theme of the talk centers on comprehending where one’s life truly happens and moving beyond a dualistic subject-object relationship. The discussion revolves around the interaction between Ryutan and Tokusan,... *Precepts, Zazen Mind, Truth, Dragons*	Richard Baker	Oct 27 1974
Aligning Life Through Zen Practice Serial: RB-00206 The talk held on October 26th, 1974, emphasizes the importance of zazen posture and conduct, highlighting that meditative practice requires order in one's life. It further explores the depth conveyed by specific words such as "... *Ceremony, Dragons, Dharmakaya, Transmission, Lineage*	Richard Baker	Oct 26 1974
Embodied Path to Enlightenment Serial: RB-00524 The transcript explores the role of zazen and conduct within Zen practice, emphasizing that understanding one’s physical and emotional behavior is central to accessing meditative awareness. It uses the Blue Cliff Record story No... *Ceremony, Zendo, Dragons, Transmission, Blue Cliff Record*	Richard Baker	Oct 21 1974
Buddhist Economics: Generosity and Conduct Serial: RB-00205 The talk on September 8th, 1974, delves into the integration of Buddhist principles within community living and economic practices, using the examples raised by E. F. Schumacher’s book "Small is Beautiful," particularly the... *Community, Paramitas, Aspects of Practice, Sangha, Patience*	Richard Baker	Sep 08 1974

The Baker Roshi Audio Archive

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