In this installment of our reading and discussion groups, we’ll explore Zen’s unruly beginnings and the spirit of questioning that has continued to inspire and invigorate teachers and students alike, even as the tradition itself has become increasingly established. From early pre-Buddhist texts, to early Chan stories, and on up to modern teachers who have moved beyond conventional Zen frameworks, we’ll investigate whether a radical rethinking of practice, meditation, and awakening lies at the heart of what makes Zen distinctive; and whether that spirit can persist even when its traditional forms are left behind.

This course will be a rare opportunity to explore both Dharma and the English language. Class discussions will be in English, so participants will get plenty of practice to speak, read and listen in this language in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Dates: 9th, 23rd January, 6th, 20th February and 6th March 2027 (Saturdays) at 10:00 – 11:30 via zoom

Cost: 250zł for five meetings

Enrolment: fundacja@kannon.pl

Facilitation by: Erik Konpo Imhoff. He is a Religious Studies graduate who focused mainly on Eastern religions and philosophies. A longtime Zen practitioner and ordained monk in Suzuki Roshi’s lineage. A native English speaker and teacher.

He has led Zen study groups, meditation instruction workshops and given many lectures on the Dharma as well as Buddhist history and practices. Over the years, he has combined Buddhist traditions, pre-Buddhist Chinese philosophies and secular scholarship to inform his worldview and analysis of Zen. Now, for the first time, I can introduce an element of language education to a Zen discussion group.

You don’t necessarily need to be a Soto Zen practitioner, or even a Buddhist, to attend. Just an honest curiosity and a willingness to participate in open discussions. No official translation will be provided, but participants may help each other when necessary.