When Effort Becomes Intimacy - Jogen Salzberg, Sensei

What this episode covers

In this opening retreat talk, Jogen explores the nature of effort in zazen, describing practice as a living, responsive correction of the mind’s continual drift from intimacy with body, breath, and present awareness. Using the image of driving a car, he shows how meditation requires both gentle steadiness and, at times, wholehearted intensity, always guided by sincerity rather than force. He unpacks the “discriminating itch” that divides experience into right and wrong, and invites practitioners to trust their innate diamond wholeness and big tender heart through unwavering attention, prayer, reflection on impermanence and death, and a deep commitment to stay on the path that leads beyond habitual suffering into freedom. This is talk 1 of the 2026 Dharma Gates retreat at Great Vow Zen Monastery. ★ Support this podcast ★

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Zen Community of Oregon Dharma Talks?

This episode is 42 minutes long.

When was this Zen Community of Oregon Dharma Talks episode published?

This episode was published on January 31, 2026.

What is this episode about?

In this opening retreat talk, Jogen explores the nature of effort in zazen, describing practice as a living, responsive correction of the mind’s continual drift from intimacy with body, breath, and present awareness. Using the image of driving a...

Is there a transcript available for this episode?

Yes, a full transcript is available for this episode. You can read the complete transcript on the episode page.

Can I download this Zen Community of Oregon Dharma Talks episode?

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