Jukai Program

Jukai, or the taking of the Buddhist precepts, is a formal commitment to the Way of Buddha through the path of Zen. One may, of course, follow this Way without such formal commitment since the Way is, essentially, about nothing other than living it. Many practitioners follow such a path. But jukai is available at Still Mind Zendo for members who wish to commit formally. 

Jukai is open to all those who have been members of Still Mind Zendo for at least two years, who sit regularly with the sangha, and who are working regularly with a teacher in daisan.

During the preparation meetings, the Sixteen Bodhisattva Precepts, which are simply the expression of one’s practice in life, are studied and discussed.

There is also the sewing by each participant of the rakusu, the small bib-like garment that symbolizes the Buddha’s mendicant robe. And, of course, regular zazen and service to the sangha.

Information on Jukai is sent to members in early February and the ceremony usually takes place in November.