Zen Center

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Zen Center

Abstract Zen Center image

A Zen Center is a term for a Zen Buddhist temple. The term appears to be a western in origin because the term Zen Temple appears in China and Japan. They are considered places of worship and meditation. Most of the centers in the United States are large converted homes for the purpose of Zen Buddhism.

1 Architecture
2 Zen Center resident life
3 Etiquette
4 Donations
5 Community involvement
6 Gallery
7 References
8 See Also
9 External links

[edit] Architecture

While the exteriors of the centers often fit in with the areas they inhabit the interiors tend to have Asian influences. While not required most Zen Centers have a zendo or meditation hall. Zen Centers may have residents. Residents, also known as a monk (males) and nun (female) may live in the residence areas of the center. Most have Kitchens and communal areas.

Some centers do not have mirrors in the bathrooms. This is to assist the practitioner from focusing on unimportant parts of the practice, such as facial appearance.

[edit] Zen Center resident life

Life as a resident is different than lay life (also known as householder).There are no televisions in the residential rooms or common areas. Access to many creature comforts are reduced. Residents have daily chores required of them. Built into each day is a time for zazen or meditation time. Superfluous talking is not encouraged, instead a resident should be practicing mindfulness in all they do.

[edit] Etiquette

As in Asian cultures shoes are not worn in most of the centers common areas.

Members of Zen Center have access to areas outside of public areas. It is not considered polite to wander around the Zen Center un-escorted. The abbot or Roshi is available by appointment only at most centers. A level of respect must always be observed with regard to all things in the center from the Roshi to the kitchen.

For Zendo etiquette see Zendo General zendo etiquette: When entering the Zendo bow towards the Buddha with hands held in Gassho.If someone is sitting in the Zendo all effort to remain quiet must be observed.

[edit] Donations

Most centers rely on donations from private individuals.

[edit] Community involvement

Many centers are located in urban areas. In an effort to increase acceptance the centers will have community programs that are beneficial to the community as a whole. This is also a tenant of Buddhism.

[edit] Gallery

San Francisco Zen Center	Rochester Zen Center front entrance	Chicago Zen Center	Upaya Zen Center - New Mexico
Rochester Zen Center Garden and Buddha Hall.	RZC Zendo