Join Peter for a talk exploring Zhaozhou’s famous koan, “The Cypress Tree in the Courtyard.” Found in the Wumenguan and Book of Serenity, this koan, often presented in a shorter form, offers profound insights when viewed within its broader dialogue. Peter will delve into the context provided by the Record of Zhaozhou, examining how this seemingly simple response to the question of “Bodhidharma’s coming from the west” points to the fundamental, immeasurable nature of reality. By considering the possible translation of “meaning” as “mind,” the talk illuminates how the cypress tree isn’t an external object but a direct manifestation of awakening, inviting us to see the boundless truth in the everyday.

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