Fall Higan and Ryosoki Online Service

On September 20 @ 9:30 AM (Online), we will be observing Fall Higan and Ryosoki Service.

Click Here to view Fall Higan and Ryosoki Online Service (September 20 @ 9:30 AM)

Higan meaning “the other shore”, the land where the Buddhas and our Ancestors lived. It is time for us to reconnect with our Ancestors. Also, Ryosoki is the service dedicating to the two founders of Sotoshu, Dogen Zenji and Keizan Zenji.

Dogen Zenji is the original founder of Sotoshu, who traveled to China to learn the teachings of Zen from his master Nyojyo Zenji. After returning to Japan, he established Eiheiji Temple located in the mountains in Fukui Prefecture.

On the other hand, Keizan Zenji, who is also the founder of Sotoshu is the fourth disciple of Dogen Zenji. You may wonder why we have two founders but its the fourth and not the second is because Keizan Zenji was responsible for teachings to the lay community and spreading the teachings throughout Japan.

Thus, in Sotoshu, we honor both of them, one as the original founder of the sect and the other as the disseminator of the sect. 

If you would like to have your deceased love ones or your ancestors be a tribute and dedicated during the service, you may make a donation with your credit card by calling us at 808-537-9409.