1) Respect the hierarchy.
Time here is a rare opportunity not to be squandered. It is an opportunity to engage in the “freedom of no-choice.” It is not a vacation, a break, an opportunity to do your own thing. This is a place of Rinzai Training; set your expectations accordingly.
2) All scheduled activities are required.
Advanced notice must be given to the Head Monk if one needs to miss or be late to a scheduled activity.
3) Be on time for all events.
– For Choka this means 4:50am.
– For Evening Zazen this means 6:25pm (at the latest).
– All other events as set in the schedule.
4) Kaichin is always mandatory and directly follows evening zazen.
– You are required to wear your formal sitting wear for kaichin.
– The head monk may set a specific time due to circumstances.
5) Samu is a continuation of our practice and is essential for keeping the monastery operational.
– Be on time.
– Do work as assigned by the head monk. This is not a time to “do your own thing”.
– Do the tasks as directed, especially when perishable resources are involved.
– Work diligently.
– At the end of the period clean tools, put away supplies, leave everything in order.
6) Formal meals are a continuation of our practice
– Come as directly as possible to these meals to assist with preparation.
– Remain in your sitting clothes for all formal meals.
– Wash your hands before eating.
– Help out as directed by the tenzo (or head monk)
7) When assigned a temple post you are expected to diligently take on this responsibility
– Give yourself enough time to complete the task in accordance with the schedule
– Do tasks as instructed, do not try to “improve” upon it, or make it more “easy.”
– Accept correction gracefully without excuses.
8) Stay in common areas: the Zendo, Dining Hall and Kitchen.
Stay out of Roshi’s, Chisan’s and the Office unless assigned there for samu. Ask the Head Monk if you have any need to be in these spaces.
9) Temple Resources are all provided via donation and should be used lightly.
– Take this into consideration especially using perishable items for personal use.
10) “Treat all tools as you would your own eyes.” -Roshi
11) Follow all guidelines for health and safety.
12) Remain in the spirit of residency during free periods.
– Limit use of media
– Stay with your practice
– Take advantage of the time to rest, be in the outdoors or study.
13) When in residency you are expected to remain on campus.
Ask the Head Monk if you need to leave for personal reasons. Off campus recreation in the free periods (biking, hiking, etc) is freely allowed.
14) Interact with visitors in a courteous and helpful manner
– Refer questions to the website or the Head Monk.
– Do not offer up monastery resources.
– Do not allow visitors into buildings apart from the zendo.
– Refer visitors to the head monk if there are any questions or issues.
15) Be respectful of the wildlife.
– Do not handle, feed, harass or harm the local flora and fauna.
16) No Pets
We can not support residents with pets nor is it in accordance with the practice here.
17) No Couples
Residents of the monastery are expected to treat their time at the monastery as an opportunity to engage in solitary practice focused solely on their practice and not on other individuals. Coming here as a couple is discouraged and those who do are expected to be apart while they are here.
18) All residency is up for periodic review.
Failure to follow these rules or a lack of commitment to the practice or community will result in your being asked to conclude your residency.