Nyoho-e Sewing Practice

“Be concentrated on every stitch . . . as you are concentrated on your breathing . . . to become one with your practice . . .concentrated on each stitch.“

~Shunryu Suzuki, Roshi

The Rakusu is a miniature version of the five-paneled Okesa, or the Buddha’s Robe. Sewing is initiated through permission of the teacher in preparation to receive the 16 Bodhisattva precepts in the ordination ceremony. Sewing the rakusu at Two Rivers is practiced in the tradition and lineage of Sawaki Kodo Roshi as transmitted to Zen Center practitioners. This ongoing practice  at TRZC brings together individuals who are planning for Lay Teacher Ordination or Jukai (taking refuge in the Dharma through Lay Ordination) to come together as sangha for the support, encouragement and energy of shared practice. A committed Zen practice and relationship with a teacher as well as the sangha is required before undertaking the sewing of Buddha’s robe.