In this Dharma talk, Sensei Sōen Michael Brunner takes us deep into the Platform Sūtra and the legendary verse contest between Jinshū and Daikan Enō. Through vivid storytelling and lived insight, Sensei explores how the desire to “polish the mirror” of the self can subtly undermine our realization of Buddha Nature.
The talk is both grounded and profound, moving from a humorous account of a temple bat rescue to the core question that still echoes through Zen halls today:
“Where did you get this dust?”
The story of Daikan Enō and the Sixth Ancestor transmission
Jinshū’s verse and the trap of self-perfection
Why true Zen practice dissolves form, hierarchy, and ambition
The nature of awakening as already complete
Practice as everyday life: pounding rice, catching bats, being present
Join our meditation community:
🕣 Monday–Friday at 6:30 AM CT
🌙 Wednesday Evening at 6:00 PM CT
🌅 Saturday Morning at 9:00 AM CT
💻 https://oneriverzen.org
Everyone is welcome—no experience needed.
If you find these talks meaningful, consider sharing with a friend or leaving a review to help others discover One River Zen.
🌐 Website: https://oneriverzen.org
📷 Instagram: @oneriverzen
🪷 Awakening Streams: The One River Zen Podcast
Teachings and reflections with Sensei Michael Brunner (Sōen) of One River Zen Center, 121 E Prospect St, Ottawa IL 61350.
🌐 Learn more & join practice: https://www.oneriverzen.org
🎧 Listen to more episodes: Awakening Streams Podcast
🙏 Support the Sangha: https://www.oneriverzen.org/donate
#SenseiMichaelBrunner #MichaelBrunnerOttawa #OneRiverZen #ZenKoan #ZenPodcast #OttawaIL #SotoZen
