A New Book on Christian Zen by a former Jesuit Priest
I’m a sucker for Christian Zen. While I ultimately think the yogic techniques of meditation are more systematic and useful for advanced meditators, the simplicity and power of Zen (and early Ch’an teaching) probably explain why so many Christian seekers are drawn to Zen practice. For years, there were only a handful of guides to walking “the razor’s edge” of Christian Zen, but recently there has been an explosion of new books about Christians who have studied Zen in depth — and lived to tell the tale.
One book I am reading right now is Reuben L.F. Habito’s marvelous Living Zen, Loving God. A former Filipino Jesuit priest who has studied Zen since 1971, Habito’s book has a fresh, nonchalant perspective on Zen not seen since perhaps William Johnston’s classic book published more than 30 years ago.
Link (here) to Christian Yoga Magazine
Link (here) to Christian Yoga Magazine
Any connection between Zen and his being a "former Jesuit?" Is he still a Catholic?
ReplyDeleteHis bio in wiki says.
ReplyDelete"Ruben L.F. Habito (born c. 1947) was born in the Philippines and is a former Jesuit priest turned Zen Buddhist master practicing in the Sanbo Kyodan lineage of Zen. In his early youth he was sent to Japan on missionary work where he began Zen practice under Yamada Koun-roshi, a Zen roshi with a very open mind (he allowed many Christians to sit zazen with him at his temple). In 1988, Ruben received Dharma transmission from Yamada Koun. Ruben left the Jesuit order in 1989, and in 1991 founded the lay organization Maria Kannon Zen Center in Dallas, Texas."
Sounds like he is a Buddhist.
"Yamada Koun-roshi, a Zen roshi with a very open mind (he allowed many Christians to sit zazen with him at his temple)."
ReplyDeleteWell, looks like he gained a convert.
Although the "Maria Kannon" name makes me think he sees some connection with the kakure Kirishitan of Japan.
My next question...since it seems he's been laicized...is he married? (I'll check wiki myself)
It seems he has 2 sons (one is named "Flo Rider!") - but it doesn't say how old they are.
ReplyDelete