Tracing the Sutras, Dedicating the Merit
- Fueko: Learn the meaning and spirit behind the dedication of merit in Zen.
- Shakyo: Experience the mindful art of sutra tracing, an embodied meditation.
- Chanting: The Heart Sutra, Bodhisattva Vows and Fueko itself.
Join us for a morning of Zen teaching with Rev. Jiko Nakade, resident minister of Daifukuji Soto Mission in Kona, Hawai‘i Island. This class offers a hands-on exploration of devotional practices, connecting heart, hand, and community in the Soto Zen tradition.
Rev. Jiko will teach the meaning of "dedicating merit" in the Zen tradition, a practice which is a vital component of all Buddhist services where the efforts of our Zen practice are offered humbly to the Buddha and to all beings. In our session, we will learn to trace sutras or images of Buddha and chant together to offer the fruits of our practice for the benefit of all beings. Our class will conclude with a special blessing service with Rev. Yoshida, and the opportunity to offer flowers.
This gathering is open to all, including those with no prior experience in Zen practice. It also offers a more creative access point to the Dharma, beyond literary and cognitive teaching.
*special note: Please avoid burning incense at this event for health reasons.*
Agenda
10:00–10:45 AM: Registration
10:30 AM: Optional Zazen Meditation
11:00 AM: Dharma Class and Sutra Tracing
12:45-1:15 PM: Special Blessing Service with flower offerings
1:15-2:15 PM: Vegetarian Lunch
About Rev. Jiko Nakade
Born in Ohio and raised in Kona, Rev. Jiko Nakade is the 12th resident minister, and the first woman minister, of Daifukuji Soto Mission. She is a graduate of the Department of Religion and Department of Japanese Language at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, and she also studied at Komazawa University in Tokyo. Rev. Jiko trained under the Reverend Ryuji Tamiya of Niigata, Japan, and is a graduate of the Hawai‘i Soto Shu Ministers Training Program.
Suggested Donation: $25
The donation supports Rev. Jiko’s visit and practice offerings, and the meal. If cost is a barrier, please reach out, we’d still love for you to join.
Questions: Call or text Kim at [808-855-5382]
