Noah Kodo Roen: Winter Practice Period 2024: Dharma Talk With Noah Kodo Roen

Sensei Kodo speaks on his koan adaptation “every atom samadhi,” inspired by Case 50 of the “Blue Cliff Record”. The discussion begins with an playful and encouraging inquiry into what constitutes “every atom samadhi,” inviting participants to offer their interpretations. “There is no wrong answer” he says, reminding us it is the question itself that is important. Sensei Kodo shares his personal reflections on his phrasing of the koan, initially drawn to the term due to its scientific connotations of atoms. Kodo goes on the interpret “every atom samadhi” as a practice of mindfulness and concentration, emphasizing moment-by-moment awareness and the importance of focusing on one task at a time to cultivate a deep, stable concentration that is both relaxed and alert. The talk continues as a critique of the modern, external pursuit of happiness through materialism and multitasking, suggesting that such efforts lead to a never-ending cycle of craving and dissatisfaction.