COMPASSION | WISDOM | HARMONY | CLARITY
Harmonize with family, community, and the world through Harmony of your Body and Mind. Clarity in everything we do.
Founded in 1997, we are a community learning and living the Buddha’s teachings through the tradition of the Dharma Drum Lineage of Chan Buddhism, as established by our founder Chan Master Sheng Yen. Master Sheng Yen passed on to us a view of the Dharma based on his experience in the Linji and Caodong lineages of Chan.
WHAT IS CHAN?
Ancient Roots
Chan emerged as a school of Buddhism in China around 500 AD. Chan teachings emphasize the realization and embodiment of the potential that is present everywhere, constantly manifesting itself. This tradition traces its roots through teacher-to-student affirmation of awakening back to the time of Shakyamuni Buddha in India and to the present day through the Caodong and Linji lineages (known in Japan as Soto and Rinzai).
Modern Revival: The Work of Master Sheng Yen
After years of training and study, Master Sheng Yen (b. 1931 – d. 2009) was recognized as a lineage holder in the Linji and Caodong schools of Chan. As part of his efforts to reform and revitalize Chinese Buddhism, Master Sheng Yen established the Dharma Drum Lineage in 2006 — bringing the traditional methods of practice from the Caodong and Linji traditions under one roof.
In order to bring the benefits of Chan Buddhism to people across the globe, Master Sheng Yen spent much of his later life teaching in North America, founding numerous centers, including Dharma Drum Retreat Center in 1997.
Chan in Daily Life
In the Chan tradition, we try to incorporate the Buddha’s teachings into all aspects of daily life. We apply them dynamically, so that the practice becomes inseparable from daily life. In this way, we overcome the tendency to see spiritual practice as something special, separate from ordinary situations and challenges.
CHAN METHODS OF PRACTICE
Foundation
The principles of this method are to relax, to be natural, and to be clear. Breathe naturally, do not try to control your breathing. The breath is used as a way to focus, to concentrate the mind. In other words, we bring the two things together – regulating the breathing and regulating the mind.
Silent Illumination
“Silently and serenely, forgetting all words; clearly and vividly, it appears before you.”
With this method, the aim is to develop and maintain relaxation, clarity and openness of mind. Ultimately, the goal is to see into the nature of the mind. One who has achieved this insight establishes a solid understanding and confidence of how to cultivate freedom and ease in dealing with all situations.
Huatou
“What is my original face?” | “What is Wu?”
In this method, we use these puzzling, seemingly illogical questions to point directly at this mind while putting aside all other concerns. With tremendous determination, you will discover that which you have always had. As a result you’ll find real peace and ease within yourself and together with others, generating wisdom and compassion.
OUR COMMUNITY
At Dharma Drum Retreat Center, all are welcome with an open heart, wherever you may be on your journey. This is a safe space for stillness and meditation, and for connecting and awakening together within a caring community—where wisdom is nurtured, service is lived, and compassion naturally unfolds. It is a place to return to when you seek rest for the body, quiet for the mind, and clarity for the heart.