Rohatsu sesshin is held each year at Zen temples and monasteries throughout the world to commemorate the enlightenment of Shakyamuni Buddha, which occurred when he saw a star at dawn on the eighth day of his retreat. This intensive sesshin is an unsurpassable opportunity for deep practice and realization, inspired by the Buddha’s determination as he sat beneath the Bodhi tree, vowing not to rise until he achieved true awakening. Read more »
When Shakyamuni Buddha resolved to realize the end to old age, sickness and death, he sat beneath a Bodhi tree and did not rise until finally, at dawn on December the 8th, a glimmering star caused him to awaken to his own true nature. The enlightenment of Shakyamuni is commemorated around the world by eight days of sesshin, during which particpants sit longer and longer each night, recognizing the unshakable faith and determination of Shakyamuni. Read more »
