The practice of Zen mind is beginner's mind. The innocence of the first inquiry—what am I?—is needed throughout Zen practice. The mind of the beginner is empty, free of the habits of the expert, ready to accept, to doubt, and open to all the possibilities. It is the kind of mind which can see things as they are, which step by step and in a flash can realize the original nature of everything. - Shunryu Suzuki; Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind
For the foreseeable future, San Francisco Zen Center is unable to offer on-site programs, classes, and other events. Please see the Online Zendo page for Zoom links to online meditation (zazen), Dharma talks, and ceremonies. And check the calendar for upcoming online practice events, classes, sittings, and workshops.
Information for newcomers:
Online Zendo
Sitting meditation (zazen) is available live online Monday through Friday mornings at 5:50 am and 6:30 am, Saturday morning at 6:30 am and 9:25 am, and Monday through Friday evenings at 5:30 pm.
Recorded Study Classes
This recommended class series offers listeners an overview of the fundamentals of Buddhism and Zen.
Books
Recommended reading for beginners.
Temple Sounds
Audio recordings of familiar sounds heard at our temples.
Videos of Suzuki Roshi
Access to movies showing San Francisco Zen Center's founder, who died in 1971.