During the past 5 years for most of us, our sense of community has been tested. Our ability to be together in an actual, as opposed to a virtual sense, has put incredible stresses on each of us and in our relationship with others. We see these stresses on display in individual tensions and anxieties along with social displays of violence and disorder. In many ways we have lost our sense of community. The Zen Buddhist Temple of Chicago. as a Soto Zen Center dedicated to helping practitioners realize their true nature through Zazen [seated meditation], is uniquely able to address the source of this dis-ease.
Zen holds that all living beings are pure Buddha nature that seems to be obscured by the workings of the discursive mind, fueled by the pressures of modern life. Through daily practice of seated meditation, we allow the discursive mind to settle, and let this true nature be expressed in our daily life.
Buddhism is non-theistic. The historical Buddha is not worshipped as a deity, but rather serves as an example of the realization that is expressed through our Zazen practice. Practitioners of other faiths may cultivate themselves through Zazen, supplementing their existing spiritual practice.
While we welcome newcomers to all of our regular services and instructions are given at each, once a month [typically the 3rd Sunday] we offer an "Introduction to Zen Meditation Workshop" for those who prefer a more structured introduction to our practice.
All are welcome. Please wear loose clothing.
For more information
www.zbtc.org
info@zbtc.org
847-272-2070
FAQs
We comply with all health guidance as issued by the CDC, State of Illinois, and city of Evanston. Currently, face masks are optional.
- What are the transport/parking options getting to the event?
We are located across the street from the Evanston Dempster St. CTA elevated station. Parking meters in Evanston are free on Sundays.
- Can anyone attend your meditation services?
Yes, all of our services are open to everyone. Newcomers are always welcome.
- What should I wear to a meditation service?
We have no specific dress code at the Temple. Since our practice involves seated meditation, we recommend that people attending the Temple wear clothing that is loose and comfortable enough to allow them to sit comfortably for an extended period of time. Sitting in a chair is also an option.
- Do I have to be a Buddhist to practice meditation?
No, it is not necessary to be a Buddhist to practice meditation. Zen is a non-dogmatic practice. & does not expound a dogma or require adherence to a belief system. We have a number of people who regularly attend our meditation services who are not Buddhists. Anyone is able to practice meditation, regardless of their personal belief system [or lack thereof].
