Rohatsu Sesshin

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, known as Rohatsu, during which participants sit longer and longer each night, recognizing the unshakable faith and determination of Shakyamuni.

The Zen Center of Syracuse offers an intensified schedule of zazen from November 30th through December 8th. Sitting with each other, we not only commemorate Shakyamuni's great struggle and enlightenment, but we also offer our silent support for those sitting Rohatsu Sesshin at Dai Bosatsu Zendo and around the globe. Please join us in the zendo as much as you are able.

Vaccination is no longer required for in-person sitting. Please check the current Covid protocol before coming to the Zen Center and let us know you plan to attend by emailing admin@hoenji.org.

Rohatsu sitting schedule at Hoen-ji:

November 30, 6 to 8 p.m.
December 1 - 7, 6 to 7:45 a.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.
December 8, 5:40 to 7:45 a.m.

If you can't come at the start of the sit, plan to arrive during kinhin (walking meditation). In the early morning, that is between 6:45 and 7 a.m. In the evening, kinhin is from 6:55 to 7:05 p.m.

DBZ Rohatsu Sesshin via Zoom: If you wish to participate in Rohatsu Sesshin on Zoom, please sign up for Zen Studies Society's DBZ Rohatsu Sesshin by November 28.