https://www.reddit.com/r/zenbuddhism/comments/1iyvako/how_important_is_the_sanghateacher/
created by niplig on 26/02/2025 at 19:01 UTC
1 upvotes, 4 top-level comments (showing 4)
Apologies if this gets asked a lot!
I move around a lot, and never really felt much benefit from meditating in groups (not that I dislike it, it just doesn't feel any different to me). As such I have mostly just sat alone, while also reading and watching dharma talks.
Am I limiting myself with this sort of practise? Is it imperitive I find something like an online sangha?
Thanks :)
Comment by awakeningoffaith at 26/02/2025 at 21:25 UTC
3 upvotes, 1 direct replies
There's no zen without a teacher. You won't go beyond a certain point without a teacher.
Comment by yanquicheto at 26/02/2025 at 21:07 UTC
2 upvotes, 1 direct replies
Soto is generally more DIY, while Rinzai places more of an emphasis on the student-teacher relationship.
Regardless of which school you identify with more, I would recommend finding some sort of community and teacher that you can interact with at least on a monthly basis. You'll benefit from access to those that may have previously dealt with the same challenges, obstacles, or misunderstandings that arise for you.
Comment by prezzpac at 26/02/2025 at 22:15 UTC
1 upvotes, 1 direct replies
Yes, you’re definitely limiting yourself. But you don’t need to be close to your teacher. A lot of people travel a few times a year to see their teachers.
Comment by Ariyas108 at 27/02/2025 at 11:26 UTC
1 upvotes, 0 direct replies
A personal connection with a wise master is invaluable.