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Unsui literally means clouds and water. Clouds and water are manifestations of the same element – freely adapting and transforming in accordance with circumstances. Unsui is the traditional Japanese term which refers to a Zen monk or follower of the Way.
Like clouds, the unsui moves effortlessly through the sky, and like water around obstacles. Freedom from attachments enables the unsui to gain access to the wisdom of how the self and the world arise and disappear. This is the teaching of Tathagata Zen.
The quest for such wisdom means to investigate the very foundation of the universe, the process that encompasses the activites of life and death. Fortunate seekers encounter a great Zen master and gather like clouds around a mountain peak. Through formal practice the unsui studies and experiences the very foundation of the Buddhist teachings.
Sitting meditation (zazen), kōan study, chanting, and meditative walking are part of traditional Japanese Zen training in the Rinzai school. North America holds one of the greatest Dharma treasures in the world of Rinzai Zen, namely Kyōzan Jōshū Sasaki, Rōshi who will be celebrating his 103rd birthday in April 2010. Jōshū Rōshi is still conducting many week-long intensive retreats in 2009.
Unsui.org is the web site of Hōun-an, Dharma Cloud Hermitage, Inc., a non-profit organization that has the long-term goal to establish an independent Zen temple in Sasaki Rōshi’s lineage in the greater Boston area. We currently practice at the Cambridge Buddhist Association where Kyōon Dokurō, Oshō (the abbot of Hōun-an) serves as the Spiritual Director and teacher of the Zazen-kai. Hōun-an is a 501(c)3 organization recognized as a church.
There are many choices for Zen practice in the Boston and Cambridge area. When looking for a place to sit, please take the time to visit and see if this sangha is a good fit for you.