Dharma Teacher Training Guidelines

We dedicate this booklet to Zen Master Seung Sahn. It is a tribute to his teaching, a tribute to his relentless efforts to help us to see the way and consequently to help others. I can see him now, straightening the cushions, correcting our chanting, encouraging us to go on as many retreats as possible. How many times did I hear him shout, “Time will not wait for you! Nobody guarantees your life!”

He also always said this practice is “not only for me.” Learning the forms, attending retreats, staying in close contact with your guiding teacher are the foundations of our practice. Let us never assume we already understand this. I trust we will all continue to bow very deeply to Zen Master Seung Sahn’s memory and to his instructions.

It is not a coincidence that the sutras and other suggested readings are in the last section. This rich tradition insists on live speech, direct understanding: “A special transmission outside the sutras.” A slow cultivation and understanding of the teachings of past teachers can be skillfully used to touch the hearts and minds of our wide sangha.

This manual is offered to you. Use it well. Know when to open it, know when to close it. Try, try, try, for ten thousand years, non-stop.
– Zen Master Soeng Hyang, School Zen Master