Dogen-ki (Memorial Day for Dogen)

What Is Dogen-ki (Memorial Day for Dogen)?

August 28 marks "Dogen-ki," a day commemorating Dogen, the founder of the Soto school of Zen Buddhism, who passed away on the 28th day of the eighth lunar month in 1253 (the fifth year of the Kencho era).

Remembering the Monk Who Brought Zen to Japan

Dogen was a Kamakura-period Zen monk who brought the teachings of Soto Zen from China to Japan and founded Eihei-ji Temple in present-day Fukui Prefecture. Dogen-ki is a day set aside to reflect on his teachings and life.

• Origin: The death anniversary of Dogen, founder of the Soto school, who died on the 28th day of the eighth lunar month, 1253
• School: Soto Zen Buddhism
• Observance: Memorial services are held at temples associated with him on this day

The Teaching of "Shikantaza"

Dogen placed great importance on "shikantaza" — the practice of sitting in meditation with single-minded focus. His teaching of quieting the mind and being fully present in the moment continues to resonate today.

Ways to Mark the Day

• Learn about Dogen's life and teachings
• Read about the Soto school and the philosophy of Zen
• Look into temples associated with him, such as Eihei-ji
• Set aside a quiet moment to sit still and clear your mind

A Teaching on Stillness That Still Reaches Us Today

Dogen-ki is a day to hold in mind the teachings of a Zen monk who lived nearly 800 years ago in the Kamakura period. August 28 is an invitation to pause amid a busy day and quiet the mind, if only for a moment.