Contemplate this quiet garden. It is home to Romania’s only Zen temple the Mokushozen-ji. This temple stands as a beacon of silent illumination in Eastern Europe.
Master Yvon Myoken Bec founded the Mokushozen-ji in 1996. He sought a serene place for Zen practice after arriving in Bucharest in 1990. He discovered a house with a tranquil garden and a vision.
In 2006 the community extended the house. Now it accommodates the Mokushozen-ji temple. This is a unique space dedicated to Zen practice.
The Mokushozen-ji’s story extends beyond its physical structure. Master Etienne Mokusho Zeisler’s teachings inspired it. Master Taisen Deshimaru transmitted these teachings in Europe. Master Myoken carried on this legacy.
The Mokushozen-ji offers daily Zen practice. They also host monthly Zen-weekends. Intense practice periods called sesshins are held several times a year. Master Myoken and Sensei Ionut Koshin guide these Zen activities.
But what exactly happens during these sessions at Mokushozen-ji? A practitioner entering the Zen Temple in Dristor must remove their shoes. This is a sign of respect. Comfortable clothing is essential for zazen practice.
Inside the zazen room sits an altar. It holds a Buddha statue. Practitioners sit on mats around the altar. The atmosphere is calm and contemplative.
Monk Ionuţ explains Zazen. It involves posture and breath. Body and mind unite. Thoughts should flow without clinging.
A typical zazen session lasts about 70 minutes. It consists of two 30-minute periods. Walking meditation occurs between them. A ceremony concludes the practice with a recited text.
The Mokushozen-ji emphasizes community. Zen is not practiced alone. It is transmitted from master to disciple within the sangha. Mutual support helps practitioners abandon the ego.
The Mokushozen-ji asks for serious commitment from practitioners. Though there are no strict attendance rules. Those who come to Mokushozen-ji should come constantly.
The Mokushozen-ji stands as a testament to Zen’s enduring appeal.