The Baker Roshi Audio Archive

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Showing 542 talks

Title	Speaker	Date
Zen Resilience Through True Nature Serial: RB-00168 The talk offers a deep examination of the concept of "reality" as understood in Zen Buddhism, particularly during periods of historical hardship, such as the persecution in China around 1000 A.D. It explores how Zen practitioners... *First Principle, Attachment, Love, Emotions, confusion*	Richard Baker	Aug 16 1974
Zen Resilience Through Suffering Serial: RB-00522 The talk focuses on the "Blue Cliff Records, Case 5," specifically on the concept of reality in Zen Buddhism. It discusses historical context, particularly the persecution of Buddhism in 1000 A.D. China, and its impact on... *First Principle, Attachment, Love, Tozan, Pain*	Richard Baker	Aug 16 1974
Embracing Chaos, Welcoming Joy Serial: RB-00169 The talk explores the concept of reducing internal commotion without shielding oneself from external disturbances, emphasizing a traditional Zen approach over specific techniques like breathing practices. The discourse... *Bodhisattva Vow, Discrimination, Religion, Separation*	Richard Baker	Aug 15 1974
Balancing Zen: Joy and Turmoil Serial: RB-00521 The talk focuses on the inherent tension in Zen practice between reducing inner commotion and avoiding escapism from external disturbances. Emphasis is placed on genuine engagement with one's own mental turmoil in contrast to... *Blue Cliff Record, Bodhisattva Vow, Separation, Joshu*	Richard Baker	Aug 15 1974
Understanding Emptiness Through Buddhism Serial: RB-00166 The talk explores the relevance of Buddhism, emphasizing the abstract nature of Buddhist concepts such as suffering, perception, and realization. The discussion touches upon the Prajnaparamita literature, Zen practices, and the... *realization, Addiction, Discrimination, Doubt, Manjushri*	Richard Baker	Aug 14 1974
Zen Balance: Form and Emptiness Serial: RB-00516 The discussion addresses alterations to the Zen meditation schedule and their effects on practitioners, emphasizing the need for adjustments to accommodate both new and experienced participants. It then delves into the Blue Cliff... *First Principle, Bell, Intimacy, Anger*	Richard Baker	Aug 12 1974
Embracing Zen Through Daily Intimacy Serial: RB-00517 The talk on August 12th, 1974, Serial No. 00517, explores the challenges of Zen practice for new and seasoned practitioners, the importance of experimenting with practice schedules, and the significant role of achieving an... *First Principle, Bell, Intimacy, Anger*	Richard Baker	Aug 12 1974
Embracing Emptiness Through Mindful Zen Serial: RB-00164 The talk focuses on understanding and practicing Zen principles during sesshin, emphasizing the significance of mindfulness and the distinction between different aspects of practice. It critiques the fabrication of self and... *Tozan, First Principle, Doubt, Sekito Kisen, Way-Seeking Mind*	Richard Baker	Aug 11 1974
Balancing Zen: Practice and Perception Serial: RB-00515 The talk delves into the nuances of Zen practice during a Sashin, emphasizing the balance between physical actions and mental awareness. It begins with reflections on the significance of breathing and the pitfalls of... *Tozan, First Principle, Doubt, Sekito Kisen, Way-Seeking Mind*	Richard Baker	Aug 11 1974
Awaken Through Zen Embodiment Serial: RB-00171 In the talk from August 10th, 1974 (Serial No. 00171), the central thesis addresses the importance and challenge of realizing one's true, unconditioned self through Zen practice. The speaker emphasizes the fleeting nature of... *Sangha, Posture, Doubt, Freedom, causation*	Richard Baker	Aug 10 1974
August 10th, 1974, Serial No. 00508 Serial: RB-00508 - *Sangha, Posture, Doubt, Freedom, causation*	Richard Baker	Aug 10 1974
Generosity and Interdependence in Action Serial: RB-00523 The talk reviews Dr. Schumacher's visit and his book "Small is Beautiful," discussing its relevance to Buddhist economics. It then explores the formation and purpose of their community, which evolved into a supportive, self-... *Community, Paramitas, Aspects of Practice, Sangha*	Richard Baker	Aug 09 1974
Bridging Breath and Intention in Zen Serial: RB-00165 The talk from August 1974 delves into various aspects of Zen practice, focusing primarily on the themes of intentionality, bodily consciousness, and the nuances of breathing during Zazen meditation. The discourse references key... *Concentration, heart, First Principle, Posture, Sixth Patriarch*	Richard Baker	Aug 1974
Embodied Mindfulness in Zazen Practice Serial: RB-00518 This talk explores the themes of intentionality and spontaneity within the practice of Zazen. Using the Blue Cliff Record's story number five, the speaker addresses the dynamic between purposeful action and natural occurrence,... *Concentration, heart, First Principle, Posture, Sixth Patriarch*	Richard Baker	Aug 1974
Realizing Reality through Illusion Serial: RB-00519 The talk addresses the paradoxical relevance of Buddhism, focusing on concepts of self, suffering, and perception as highlighted in the Prajñāpāramitā literature and Zen teachings like the Blue Cliff Records. The discussion... *realization, Addiction, Discrimination, Bodhidharma, Non-discrimination*	Richard Baker	Aug 1974
Zen Vows: The Flowing Journey Serial: RB-00162 The talk discusses the importance of vow or resolve in Zen practice, using the metaphor of a leaf in a stream to illustrate one's spiritual journey. It emphasizes that vows in Buddhism are not one-time commitments but are... *Vow, Tozan, Way-Seeking Mind, Letting Go*	Richard Baker	Jun 21 1974
Embracing Vows on Zen's Path Serial: RB-00510 The talk centers around practicing with intimacy and the significance of making and holding a vow in the context of Zen practice. The metaphor of a leaf in a stream is used to describe the vow and the inevitable push towards... *Vow, Tozan, Sesshin, Sixth Patriarch, Way-Seeking Mind*	Richard Baker	Jun 21 1974
June 20th, 1974, Serial No. 00161 Serial: RB-00161 - *Posture, Lineage, Sixth Patriarch*	Richard Baker	Jun 20 1974
Zen: Embracing Non-Dual Wisdom Serial: RB-00511 The talk focuses on the distinction between absolute and relative truths, as emphasized by Nagarjuna, with a discussion of Tozan's circle number five, the practice of Zazen, and the integration of Zen teachings into daily life.... *Posture, Lineage, Sixth Patriarch*	Richard Baker	Jun 20 1974
Transcending Pain Through Poetic Effort Serial: RB-00160 The talk discusses the approach to pain, emphasizing that true nature transcends the ability to withstand pain or achieve calmness. The speaker references the poem by Setso and its reinterpretation, suggesting that Setso... *Love, heart, Pain, Dragons, First Principle*	Richard Baker	Jun 19 1974
June 19th, 1974, Serial No. 00512 Serial: RB-00512 The talk centers around addressing pain not as something to manage or control through calmness but as a path to understanding one's true nature. The discussion emphasizes the concepts presented in Zen teachings, focusing on true... *heart, Dragons, Pain, Baso, First Principle*	Richard Baker	Jun 19 1974
June 18th, 1974, Serial No. 00159 Serial: RB-00159 The discourse revolves around the significance and contributions of Zen teacher Vassa, particularly highlighting the depth of Zen insight encapsulated by Vassa’s statement, "sun-faced Buddhas, moon-faced Buddhas." The discussion... *Baso, Tozan, Religion*	Richard Baker	Jun 18 1974
Enlightenment Beyond Sun and Moon Serial: RB-00513 The talk focuses on the influential Zen master Vassa and his notable teaching encapsulated in the phrase "sun-faced Buddhas, moon-faced Buddhas." This phrase exemplifies the profound and seemingly paradoxical teachings found... *Religion, Avalokiteshvara, Sixth Patriarch*	Richard Baker	Jun 18 1974
Buddhist Resilience Amid Suffering Serial: RB-00158 The talk from June 17th, 1974, primarily addresses the intellectual and experiential aspects of suffering in Buddhism, emphasizing the distinction between those who feel compelled to alleviate suffering and those who do not. It... *Lineage, Sangha, Buddha Nature, Pain, Hyakujo*	Richard Baker	Jun 17 1974
Empathy and Enlightenment Through Zen Serial: RB-00514 The talk examines the nature of suffering and the fundamental Zen Buddhist concepts of Sangha, personal development, and societal engagement. The significance of suffering is emphasized through Buddhist scriptures which... *Lineage, Sangha, Buddha Nature, Pain, Hyakujo*	Richard Baker	Jun 17 1974
Zen Unity in Duality Serial: RB-00170 This talk delves into the Zen concepts of the Absolute and the Relative, exploring the common misunderstanding and practical implications of these ideas. The discussion includes references to Zen literature and teachings,... *First Principle, Bodhidharma, Tozan, Baso*	Richard Baker	Jun 16 1974
Beyond Duality: Zen Insights Serial: RB-00507 The talk focuses on the concepts of the Absolute and the Relative within Zen philosophy, emphasizing their pervasive yet often misunderstood roles in Zen literature and practice. It is discussed that most practitioners either... *First Principle, Bodhidharma, Tozan*	Richard Baker	Jun 16 1974
Mindfulness Through Zen Practice Serial: RB-00157 This discussion emphasizes the importance of establishing and maintaining a stable state of mind through correct posture, breathing, and attentiveness during Zen practice, particularly in a Sashin. Essential details include the... *Posture, Breath, Sangha, Happiness, Pain*	Richard Baker	Jun 15 1974
Stabilizing Mind Through Zen Practice Serial: RB-00506 The talk on June 15th, 1974, centers around the meticulous practice of Zen meditation (Zazen) during a Sashin, emphasizing the importance of correct posture and breath control for stabilizing the state of mind. The discussion... *Posture, Breath, Sangha, Happiness, Pain*	Richard Baker	Jun 15 1974
Buddhist Precepts for Authentic Living Serial: RB-00153 The talk describes the importance of the sixteen Buddhist precepts, highlighting their significance in the transmission of Buddha's teachings. The precepts, including the ten prohibitory precepts, three pure precepts, and the... *Precepts, Sangha, Pain, Discrimination, Evil*	Richard Baker	Apr 25 1974
April 21st, 1974, Serial No. 00154 Serial: RB-00154 The talk on April 21st, 1974, delves into the concepts of relative and absolute within Zen practice, using ancient stories and teachings to illustrate the nuances of these philosophical terms. The discussion references the... *Dragons, realization, Seigen Gyoshi, Tozan*	Richard Baker	Apr 21 1974
April 6th, 1974, Serial No. 00504 Serial: RB-00504 This talk centers on concepts of Zen practice, particularly exploring non-action (non-doing) and its relationship to creativity—termed "great activity." There are detailed reflections on key Zen parables and teachings, including... *Lotus Sutra, Dragons, Daily Life, Joshu, Sixth Patriarch*	Richard Baker	Apr 06 1974
Zen Embodiment: Living Non-Duality Serial: RB-00503 The talk from April 5th, 1974, discusses the concept of non-duality and the relationship between the relative and the absolute within Zen Buddhism. The role of the teacher is emphasized in guiding students towards this... *Sixth Patriarch, realization, Nirmanakaya, Sambhogakaya*	Richard Baker	Apr 05 1974
Beyond Dualities in Buddhist Practice Serial: RB-00155 The talk discusses the various dimensions and principles of Buddhist practice, emphasizing the significance of moving beyond dichotomies like absolute and relative existence. It explores the concept of "practice" in Buddhism,... *heart, Intimacy, Heart Sutra, Oneness, Precepts*	Richard Baker	Apr 04 1974
Embodying Buddhism in Everyday Life Serial: RB-00502 The main thesis of the talk explores the nature of Buddhist practice, emphasizing that Buddhism manifests through practice rather than defined doctrines or schools. Key concepts include the recognition of absolute and relative... *heart, Intimacy, Heart Sutra, Oneness, Buddha Nature*	Richard Baker	Apr 04 1974
Zen Precepts for True Perception Serial: RB-00501 The talk discusses the significance of taking the precepts and their role in Zen practice, emphasizing the Ten Prohibitory Precepts, Three Pure Precepts, and Three Refuges. It underscores that precepts serve to guide... *Precepts, Sangha, Pain, Discrimination, Big Mind*	Richard Baker	Apr 03 1974
Zen Beyond Duality Serial: RB-00500 The talk centers on the concept of the Absolute versus the Relative in Zen practice, employing various koans and poetry to elucidate the balance between them. The essence is that Zen practice transcends the duality between the... *Dragons, realization, Seigen Gyoshi, Tozan*	Richard Baker	Apr 02 1974
Inner Realization in Zen Practice Serial: RB-00156 This talk focuses on interpreting the Zen story from the Blue Cliff Records, emphasizing the interplay between the relative and absolute realities, particularly in teacher-student relationships. Discussion centers on Joshu's... *Joshu, Breath, Discrimination*	Richard Baker	Apr 01 1974
Zen Insights Beyond Words Serial: RB-00263 The main thesis of the talk explores the intricate relationship between Zen teacher and student through the lens of the Blue Cliff Records, focusing on the second story and Engo's introductory words. It delves into the themes of... *Joshu, Breath, Discrimination*	Richard Baker	Apr 01 1974
Lost to Find True Zen Serial: RB-00264 The talk emphasizes the importance of becoming disordered and lost during a sashim to find the true source of strength and create an intimate relationship with Zen practice. It critiques the idea of achievement and accumulation... *Way-Seeking Mind, Lotus Sutra, Priest*	Richard Baker	Mar 31 1974
Zen Mastery: Compassion and Wisdom Embodied Serial: RB-00265 The talk eulogizes a Zen master, reflecting on the teachings of Zen and the embodiment of compassion and wisdom in daily practice. It references the idea of interconnectedness, highlighting key Zen texts and figures that shaped... *Bell, Heart Sutra, Hindrances, Perfect Wisdom, Compassion*	Richard Baker	Feb 24 1974
Zen's Path to Insightful Inquiries Serial: RB-00266 The talk on February 22nd, 1974, with Serial No. 00266 primarily discusses the essence of asking meaningful questions in Zen practice. The discussion emphasizes the profound difference between superficial and insightful inquiries... *Bodhidharma, Money, Transmission, Buddha Nature*	Richard Baker	Feb 22 1974
Genuine Zen Practice Unveiled Serial: RB-00268 This talk addresses practical aspects of Zen monastery rituals, specific changes in meal chants, and the nature of Buddhist questioning. It also elaborates on the significant interactions between Bodhidharma and the emperor,... *Bodhidharma, Shosan, Dharmakaya, Ceremony, Commitment*	Richard Baker	Feb 21 1974
Discovering Buddha Within Yourself Serial: RB-00269 The primary thesis of the talk addresses the concept of seeking within oneself versus seeking externally, using the story of Bodhidharma’s encounter with Emperor Wu as an illustrative backdrop. The narrative pivots around... *Bodhidharma, Gratitude, heart, Funeral, Fox*	Richard Baker	Feb 17 1974
Embrace Non-Dualism Through Zazen Serial: RB-00152 The talk discusses the concepts of relative and absolute perspectives in Buddhism, emphasizing the importance of understanding non-dualism. The discussion includes references to the teachings of Suzuki Roshi and Joshu, as well as... *Joshu, Pain, Dokusan, Happiness*	Richard Baker	Feb 09 1974
Zen and Non-Dualistic Reality Serial: RB-00255 The talk explores the profound principles of non-dualism within Zen Buddhism, emphasizing how deeply embedded the concepts of relative and absolute realities are in the practice. Key teachings highlighted include the importance... *Joshu, Pain, Happiness, Buddha Nature*	Richard Baker	Feb 09 1974
February 8th, 1974, Serial No. 00257 Serial: RB-00257 The central theme of the talk revolves around the concept of living in the present moment, emphasizing the principle that true Buddhist practice is found in everyday activities rather than extrinsic achievements or searching in... *Bodhidharma, Happiness, Greed, Hate, Delusion*	Richard Baker	Feb 08 1974
February 7th, 1974, Serial No. 00259 Serial: RB-00259 The talk centers on the essence of Zen practice, emphasizing that true understanding comes from embodying precepts and living mindfully rather than merely following rules. It also discusses the parallels between Zen practice and... *zen meditation, Right Effort, Lotus Sutra, Chanting, Offering*	Richard Baker	Feb 07 1974
February 6th, 1974, Serial No. 00261 Serial: RB-00261 The talk primarily addresses the concept of "transmission outside the scriptures" in Zen practice, emphasizing the necessity of deep commitment and energy in pursuing a path towards enlightenment. It explores the relationship... *Priest, Joshu, confusion, Offering, Vow*	Richard Baker	Feb 06 1974
Zen Practice: Simplicity and Discipline Serial: RB-00262 The talk fundamentally addresses the practice of Zen Buddhism, focusing on the concepts of simplicity in practice, the significance of facing grief and fear, and the importance of physical discipline through zazen and the use of... *Kinhin, Pain, Aspects of Practice, Community, Breath*	Richard Baker	Feb 05 1974

The Baker Roshi Audio Archive

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