Philosophy
To study Zen
is to study one’s self.
To study one’s self
is to forget one’s self.
To forget one’s self
is to be one with all things.
Master Dogen
The Morro da Vargem Zen Buddhist Monastery was established according to the centuries-old Soto Zen school, introduced in Japan in the 13th century by Master Dogen Zenji (1200-1253), founder of the Eihei-ji Monastery in 1244. Throughout his life, Master Dogen emphasized the importance of simplicity, discipline and the practice of zazen, which requires a sitting posture for meditation.
Life in the Zen Monastery is ruled by strict discipline, aimed at creating a lightness of posture and freedom of the mind rather than stagnation. Nevertheless, good humor is a hallmark of the day-to-day activities of the monks. Pranks, unexpected answers and vivacity in even small gestures are traditional in Buddhism. Far from turning him into a mythological figure or causing trepidation of an all-powerful and severe deity, Zen treats Buddha without dogmatism. Frequently, the teachings are transmitted through amusing stories that often seem to be meaningless at first, but always have a subtle touch to them.
“Simple, just don’t think about monkeys,” a master once said to a monk who asked him how to clear his mind. Some days later, the monk returned, confused, and implored: “Master, I no longer want to clear my mind; now, please, help me get rid of the monkeys.”
Thus, with humor, discipline and concentration, Zen practitioners stride through life.
BR-101, Km 217, Ibiraçu/ES
CEP:29670-000
tel/fax 27 3257-3030