Zen Center of Los Angeles — Local services in Los Angeles

ZCLA takes up half a city block in a gritty but improving corner of Koreatown. Unlike many other famous teachers and gurus that came from Asia in the 60s and 70s, the founder had the foresight to cultivate a strong group of disciples. There is a lively group of teachers here offering frequent and practical events and instruction. The rental property on site ensures a sizeable and involved group of practitioners as well as a solid source of income. There is a bookstore/giftshop, dining hall and commercial kitchen, guest rooms for multi-day retreats, manicured grounds, a dedicated zendo and at least one other event space. So far, the speakers I've heard were very eloquent, insightful, and...

There’s a deep irony in a Zen center that often seems more attached to ideological performance than to actual practice. Group discussions frequently begin with land acknowledgments and quickly shift into lengthy commentary dominated by older practitioners, many of whom appear more interested in hearing their views echoed than in engaging in true inquiry. It's hard not to wonder what Dōgen would say about a sangha so entangled in attachment to identity and opinion.

That said, Sensei Myoho is a refreshing presence—steady, sincere, and grounded in the Dharma. Her approach stands in contrast to the performative tendencies that sometimes take...

Zen Center represents a more purest approach to Zen Buddhist Meditation practices. It is not filled with personalities, and those who have built up personal brands in theymeditatuin space that then call the teachings their own. This is a place for purists who which two find the teachings of Zen Buddhism delivered in a simple and highly...