History
The Zen Studies Society was established in 1956 to assist the Buddhist scholar D.T. Suzuki in his efforts to introduce Zen to the West. ZSS is one of the oldest organizations dedicated to the practice of Rinzai Zen in the United States. Read More
Related Zen Centers
The Zen Studies Society maintains two practice centers and a close association with the Zen Center of Syracuse Hoen-ji. Other related centers include Endless Mountain Zendo in Pennsylvania, Charles River Zen in Massachusetts, Hollow Bones, and Chisoku-an in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan. Read More
Mission
We are an American Zen Buddhist community, committed to fostering awakening to inner freedom and true happiness for all. Read More
Ethics Guidelines
The Buddhist Precepts are a fundamental part of Zen Buddhist practice. They help create a safe and supportive environment for all. It is each person’s responsibility to follow and honor these Fundamental Precepts and Ten Important Precepts: Read More
Bylaws
The purpose of the Zen Studies Society, Inc. (“the Society”) including its monastery and temple, is to support and promote the study of Zen Buddhism in its religious, philosophical, cultural, historical, and educational aspects; to support and promote the practice of zazen; to train monastics in the Rinzai Zen tradition; and to strengthen the roots of Rinzai Zen practice in the West. Read More
Board of Directors
For members of The Zen Studies Society Board, contact links, and press inquiries: Read More
Annual Report
Click to see our Annual Report 2022