Diving Deep into Zen

This eight-month, online program is geared towards students who have an established practice and basic understanding of Zen. It offers a broad sweep of Buddhist teachings, beginning with early Theravada and continuing through the Mahayana and Zen. Each month we will explore a different topic, including: The Three Characteristics, Dependent Origination, Emptiness and the Heart Sutra, The Two Truths, Mind and Awareness, Suchness, Buddha Nature, and Awakening.

Each session will weave meditation, a Dharma talk, and interactive inquiry to explore and deepen our understanding. The main Thursday sessions present material through a Dharma talk and include interactive Inquiry and discussion. The second Thursday Inquiry sessions provide an expanded opportunity for further exploration of the topic. There will also be opportunities for small peer discussion groups, arranged to best match the schedules of participants.

After each session, you will receive readings, reflections, and practices to support the integration and embodiment of the teaching topics in everyday life. Access to recorded talks, readings, and assignments for the program will be available through a dedicated program portal.

Program Dates:

• Opening Session: Sunday, April 12, 1pm-5pm PT

• Closing Session: Sunday, December 6, 1-5pm PT

Every other Thursday evening: 

• 7:00pm-9:00pm PT: Thursdays May 7, June 4, July 16, August 6, September 3, October 8, November 5

• 7:00-8:00pm PT: Thursdays April 23, May 21, June 18, July 30, August 20, September 17, October 8, November 19

For more information or to register, please go to the SFZC website: https://www.sfzc.org/calendar/events/online/diving-deep-zen-online-412-126