The Oxford Zen Centre of Sanbo Zen, Kamakura, Japan

The Oxford Zen Centre of Sanbo Zen, Kamakura, Japan is a UK-based nonprofit organization dedicated to educating the public in the study and practice of Zen meditation. It is registered as a charity under the number 1093036.

Background and Affiliation

The Centre follows the Sanbo Zen lineage, a lay tradition of Zen founded in 1954 that combines the Soto school heritage with Rinzai koan study. This lineage emphasizes the direct experience of True Self (kensho) and its integration into daily life. The Sanbo Zen tradition is rooted in the teachings of Zen Master Dogen (1200-1253) and has been led by successive abbots including Yamada Koun Roshi and his successors in Kamakura, Japan, where the headquarters of the lineage is located[2].

Activities and Practice

The Oxford Zen Centre supports a single Sangha (community) practicing in two UK locations: Oxford and London. Both groups are led by Zen Teacher Sandy Chubb. Regular weekly sittings are held every Thursday evening in Oxford and Tuesday evening in London. In addition, the Centre organizes regular retreats (sesshins) in the UK and abroad. The practice centers on zanzen, seated meditation focusing on the breath to cultivate stillness of body and mind. Practitioners aim to develop greater energy, clarity, compassion, kindness, and peace through this discipline[1][3].

Mission

The charity's stated purpose is to educate the public about Zen meditation, promoting its benefits and encouraging authentic practice consistent with the Sanbo Zen lineage. They welcome newcomers but emphasize the importance of initial contact and invitations to ensure adequate support for beginners[1][5].

Governance and Finances

As of the financial year ending January 31, 2024, the charity reported an income of approximately £59,655 and expenditure of £60,274, reflecting a well-managed budget focused on its educational mission. It operates with the support of eight trustees and ten volunteers. None of the trustees receive remuneration or benefits from the charity. The organization does not operate any trading subsidiaries nor engage in fundraising activities beyond its membership and public events[4][5].

This Centre represents an important hub for the dissemination and practice of Sanbo Zen meditation in the UK, bridging traditional Japanese Zen teachings with Western practitioners in Oxford and London.

[1] https://oxfordzencentre.org.uk [2] https://oxfordzencentre.org.uk/history-of-sanbo-zen/history-of-sanbo-zen/ [3] https://londonjizozencentre.org [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-details/3987687/trustees [5] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/3987687