Dojo’s Rules

dojo’s rules :

 1) In this Dojo, only concentrated people and those willing to continue zazen to look for the Way are admitted. Those making mistakes must think about it.

 2) All the disciples must deeply harmonize like milk and honey, and create a nice and strong atmosphere. Though you are just disciples for the moment, you may later become masters - for eternity. During zazen, each person is like Buddha or God.

 3) In the Dojo, you will meet spiritual friends, deserving respect. Together you practise precious zazen. So you must never forget their deep fervour, which is more important, and eternal, than family links.

 4) Old disciples must teach with gentleness, without an arrogant mind.

 5) The disciples must follow all the Master’s teachings and protect all the Dojo’s rules. If some people don’t follow them, the person in charge of the Dojo must ask them to leave.

 6) In the Dojo, don’t wear loud clothes. If possible a black kimono or zen clothing with rakusu or kesa.

 7) During zazen, take off any jewellery : necklaces for example...

 8) Drug addicts or mentally ill people are forbidden in the Dojo.

 9) Those who like quarrelling, arguing, fighting or causing trouble are not allowed to enter the Dojo.

 10) A strict sexual ethic must be observed in the friendships struck up in the Dojo.

 11) Everyone must be on time. Those who arrive late mustn’t disturb the others. Shoes and clothes must always be tidied correctly.

 12) It is forbidden to take the Dojo’s zafus, incense or any other object.

 13) At the end of zazen, everyone must leave, the head only can stay on.

 14) Only those people who are expressly authorized can come into the Dojo.

Maître Taisen Deshimaru

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