NYZ: Rohatsu Week Zazen

Rohatsu (a Japanese word meaning “the eighth day of the last month of the year”) is held each year in Zen monasteries throughout the world to commemorate the enlightenment of Shakyamuni Buddha, which occurred when he saw a star at dawn on the eighth day of his retreat. During this week, we manifest the Buddha’s determination as he sat beneath the Bodhi tree, vowing not to rise until he achieved true awakening. Every student contributes to and takes strength from the powerful energy and determination of all.

At New York Zendo, we will sit from 7 – 9 p.m. each night from December 1 through December 7. Yaza, voluntary sitting after the formal close of the evening, is encouraged. We will sit all night December 7th, and Rohatsu will end with the chanting of the Jodo-E ceremony on the morning of the 8th. ZSS Health Protocols  apply.