Ango, or “Peaceful Dwelling,” is a period of intensive practice, a tradition whose origins go back to the time of the Buddha. Back then, he and his disciples would cease their customary wandering lifestyle at the beginning of the monsoon season, taking shelter from the incessant rains for three months. During this time, they devoted themselves to intensive study, the teaching of laity and younger monks, and meditation. The Buddha delivered many of his sermons during these periods, often at the vihara in Jeta Grove.
In the Zen tradition, there are typically two three-month ango each year, one in the summer and one in the winter. This year, Great Wave’s Summer 2022 Ango will take place from June 1 to August 20. As in years past, my hope is that all those who I have formally accepted as students will commit to more intensive practice by completing our Ango Commitment Form prior to June 1. However, you needn’t be a formally recognized student to complete the form. I encourage everyone to make a commitment to further their practice. Your forms will be printed and stored inside the altar in the ancestor room at Myogenji.