Dainin Katagiri, the founding Teacher of our Soto Zen
lineage in the Midwest, once said regarding Meditation:
“Don’t disturb your neighbor, or be disturbed by your neighbor.”
Arrive ten minutes before Meditation starts.
Leave your shoes at the door.
Modest, comfortable clothing is suitable.
Enter the meditation hall when the wooden “han” is struck
four times.
Take a seat on a cushion or a chair.
If you arrive late, please consider taking a seat in the outer
hall.
Silent meditation (25 or 40 minutes) begins with three bells.
Sit as still as possible.
If you are unable to sit still, please consider relocating to
the outer hall to complete the meditation.
At the conclusion of the Meditation, there will be either a short chant then a longer service.
One may exit after the chant.
Join in, to the degree which you feel comfortable, by observing others and using the chant book.
If there are bows, it is appropriate to do a standing bow from the waist with hands palm to palm.
Iowa City Zen Center 