In this guided meditation Peter takes us into the silence of mind and body and introduces us to the practice of Silent Illumination (shikintaza) – where we drop away obstructions to perceive reality clearly, transcending noise and separation. He quotes Zen Master Hongzhi, who describes Silent Illumination as the “field of bound less emptiness” where everything functions freely in suchness, and “illuminates without leaving traces”. Peter emphasizes that silent illumination is an innate awakening—”just sitting” without striving. He guides practitioners to cultivate stillness, broad awareness, and serenity, using the body to awaken to this bright, boundless field. 

This talk was given by apprentice teacher Peter Bursky at Autumn sesshin 2025 at Kodoji.