Introduction

This pamphlet describes the oryoki, a Zen student's eating bowls. The use of oryoki during sesshin provides an opportunity for us to deepen our practice. Paying careful attention to the way in which we take our meals, our true relationship between ourselves and our food is made clear. Emphasizing each simple activity, we continually learn our way.

The sangha of Kannon Do offers this pamphlet to all practicing students. We hope you will find it useful. Feel free to reproduce as many copies as you need.

Further instructions can be found in Dogen's Fushukuhanpo.

A Monk told Joshu: "I have just entered the monastery. Please Teach me."

Joshu asked: "Have you eaten your rice porridge?"

The monk replied: "I have eaten."

Joshu said: "Then wash your bowl."