Sweeping out the Dust, Finding the Buddha | Shōyōroku 68

In this episode, Sensei Michael Brunner of One River Zen explores Case 68 from the Shōyōroku (Book of Equanimity), “Kasan’s Slashing Sword.” Through the contrasting teachings of Kasan and Sekisō, this teisho examines key Zen concepts such as:The interplay between practice and realizationThe dynamic balance of relative and absolute truthsMoving beyond dualistic thinking to embody the DharmaThe transformative power of cutting through illusionsActualizing wisdom and compassion in the present momentSensei Michael also reflects on the nature of karmic momentum, the importance of embracing life's challenges, and how true practice allows us to meet life fully. This talk invites us to see the Buddha not as a distant idea but as a living, moving force that manifests through us when we step beyond concepts and into direct experience.This talk was recorded live at One River Zen, where mindfulness, community, and awakening come together.🌟 Join Us for Meditation at One River Zen 🌟🧘‍♀️ Morning Meditation: Monday–Friday, 6:30–7:15 AM🧘 Evening Meditation: Wednesdays, 6:00–6:45 PM🧘‍♂️ Weekend Meditation: Saturdays, 9:00–10:00 AMCome in-person or join online to sit in stillness, connect with our sangha, and deepen your practice.Key Themes Addressed:The paradox of emptiness and form: How Zen teaches us to hold both perspectives without clinging to either.Kasan’s directive to “slash with a sword”: Cutting through attachments and delusions.Sekisō’s response: “He has no country. Where could he be met?”: The boundlessness of absolute reality.The inseparability of relative and absolute truths: Why both must manifest together.How practice transforms karmic patterns and helps us engage with life skillfully.Resources Mentioned:Shōyōroku (Book of Equanimity)The teachings of Kasan and Sekisō  🪷 Awakening Streams: The One River Zen PodcastTeachings and reflections with Sensei Michael Brunner (Sōen) of One River Zen Center, 121 E Prospect St, Ottawa IL 61350.🌐 Learn more & join practice: https://www.oneriverzen.org🎧 Listen to more episodes: Awakening Streams Podcast🙏 Support the Sangha: https://www.oneriverzen.org/donate#SenseiMichaelBrunner #MichaelBrunnerOttawa #OneRiverZen #ZenKoan #ZenPodcast #OttawaIL #SotoZen