Silent Illumination Chan Retreat, Vancouver, Nov 15-22

“Silently and serenely, forgetting all words,
clearly and vividly, it appears before you.”

The above verse comes from “The Inscription on Silent Illumination,” a poem composed by Master Hongzhi Zhengjue of the 12th century Caodong (Soto) lineage of the Chan school. This verse is a guideline for a method of practice, which he called “Silent Illumination.” With this simple method, one cultivates relaxation and awareness of the state of body, mind, and environment. With the settling of wandering thoughts and conceptualization, there is “silence”; with the emergence of clarity, there is “illumination.”

This 7-Day Silent Illumination retreat will be led by Zarko Andricevic. Drawing on teachings of Master Sheng Yen, he will lead us in understanding the concepts and applying the method of Silent Illumination. He will also give personal interviews to provide additional guidance.

Retreat Program

The Silent Illumination method will be taught in the context of daily life activities, such as sitting, standing, walking, sleeping, working, and eating. Chanting and gentle yoga exercises further harmonize the body, breath, and mind. The retreat also includes daily lectures, meditation instruction, guided meditation, and personal interview.

Note: This is an intensive retreat, intended for practitioners who:

• have established a routine personal practice
• have prior retreat experience (3-day or longer meditation retreat)

Website:   http://www.ddmba.org