Samu Zen
Samu in Zen refers to voluntary work performed as part of the practice at a Zen center. The word “samu” comes from Japanese and means work carried out with mindfulness, serving as a form of moving meditation. Samu is an essential part of Zen monks’ lives and offers an opportunity to apply the Zen spirit to everyday life.
Samu tasks can include activities such as gardening, cleaning, cooking, or any maintenance and management work at the Zen center. What makes this form of volunteering unique is the attitude with which it is carried out: it is done with full attention to the present moment, free from mental distractions, and in silence. Samu is a form of moving meditation and an opportunity to cultivate mindfulness in every action.
The Karma Yoga of Zen
Like “karma yoga,” Zen volunteering is based on performing selfless and conscious actions as a means of achieving spiritual liberation. Both in samu and karma yoga, the focus is on performing actions without seeking personal rewards or specific results, but rather with the intention of serving others and contributing to the well-being of humanity.
The term “karma” refers to the law of karma, the belief that every action has consequences in a person’s life. It is believed that an individual’s actions, whether positive or negative, have effects on their present and future lives. In samu and karma yoga, the goal is to act selflessly, without attachment to the results of one’s actions, in order to break free from the chain of actions and reactions that bind individuals to the cycle of rebirths. Through this selfless and mindful attitude, one can purify the mind, release attachments, and achieve spiritual self-realization.
Samu also promotes values such as humility, selfless service, and the integration of spiritual practice into daily life. Zen monks and practitioners believe that through samu, one can transcend the ego, learn to live in the present, and experience a deep connection with reality as it is. Samu is a fundamental part of training in Zen Buddhism and is considered a path to gaining a deeper understanding of the nature of the mind and reality.
Samu zen workshop
Saturday, January 25:
08:30–10:15: Zazen and Zen ritual
10:15–11:45: Samu
This is a free activity. Who can participate? All members of Zen Kannon.
There will be a general volunteer meeting to review completed tasks, plan upcoming work, and form teams. If you would like to join a samu team, please complete the registration form to receive all information about volunteering.