Ordaining as a Zen Priest

In the Soto Zen tradition, when practitioners ordain as priests, they vow to commit themselves forever to the service of others. While traditionally, practitioners left their homes to study and practice the Buddhist path, most practitioners in this country do not actually leave their families, occupation, or residence. Instead, they leave the "home" of greed, anger, and ignorance and vow to live a life devoted to freeing all beings from suffering. 

Priest Ordination marks the beginning of priest practice. Additional ceremonies of Shuso (head monk) and Dharma Transmission (end of formal training) may follow as a priest continues on the path, formally working with their teacher and the sangha/community. 

The priest ordination ceremony includes homage and dedication to the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha; a ritual shaving of the head or cutting the hair of the ordainees to represent relinquishing attachments; and the ordainees receiving priest robes, bowls, a "way name," new lineage papers; and the ordainees renewing their commitment to the Buddhist precepts. 

Here, Shozoku, who ordained in Fall 2022, is assisted in her traditional head shaving by her daughter, with sangha member, Keika, looking on. This is a powerful and symbolic practice that signals the transition into priesthood from lay practice.

Congrats to KoRin (left) and Keika (far right), who ordained in March 2024 after years of study, service, practice, and reflection. We are inspired by their wholehearted practice and support for our community.

Deep bows to their teacher, Sosan (center, for her unflagging encouragement and deep wisdom.