The heart of the Kwan Um School of Zen is practice.

Our practice is, moment by moment, to return to our original nature as it is before thinking arises. Our founding teacher, Zen Master Seung Sahn, very simply called it “Don’t Know.” This means, in each moment to open unconditionally to all that presents itself to us, perceive clearly and act with our natural compassion and wisdom to benefit all beings.

The Zen centers of the Kwan Um School of Zen around the world offer training in Zen meditation through meditation instruction, daily morning and evening meditation practice, public talks, teaching interviews, retreats, workshops, and community living. Our programs are open to anyone regardless of previous experience.

The School’s purpose is to make this practice of Zen as accessible as possible. It is our wish to help human beings find their true direction and to help this world.