Tokudo Study
The following is the course of study required for Tokudo (Junior Priest Ordination).
A. Core Sutra Study
Diamond Sutra
Written understanding of teaching of each section
- used as meditation subject and presented in Daisan.
Some or all of the following Sutras to be studied under direction of a teacher.
- Heart Sutra
- Sandokai - Identity of Relative and Absolute
- Hokyo Zanmai - Jewel Mirror Awareness
- Genjo Koan
- Atta Dipa
B. Study of Basic Early Teachings
To be studied under direction of a teacher.
The following teachings are found in What the Buddha Taught
by Walpola Rahula, Grove Press, NY 1959.
Chapters II, III, IV, V: "The Four Noble Truths."
Page 109: The Satipatthana Sutta - The Foundation of Mindfulness
C. Personal Reading:
Zen Master Dogen by Yuho Yokoi, Weatherhill, New York (1987).
Read Sections:
- The Merit of Becoming a Monk
- Receiving the Precepts
- The Merit of a Kasaya
- Taking Refuge in the Three Treasures
- The Four Horses
- The Eight Aspects of Enlightenment
Lotus Sutra. Translated by Gene Reeves, Wisdom, Boston 2008
The Vissudimagga. The Path of Purification. Bhadantacariya Buddhaghosa, Pariyatti Publishing, 867 Larmon Road, Onalaska, WA 98570 (1999).
D. Recommended Reading
The Lankavatara Sutra. Tr. Daisetz Teitaro Suzuki. Motilal Banarsidass. 41 U.A. Bungalow Road, Jawahar Nagar, Delhi, 110 007 (1999)The Hundred Thousand Songs of Milarepa. Tr. Garma C.C. Chang. Oriental Studies Foundation, 1962
Perfection of Wisdom Sutra (in any of the various lengths).
E. Final Stage:
Tokudo Sesshin (Retreat) of 7 days Liturgical Training (during Sesshin) Making of Zagu (folding mat) and Kesa (upper robe). (Both should be made before the Tokudo Sesshin).) Tokudo Ceremony