Bodhin Kjolhede
Usa·Sōtō/Rinzai Zen·Male·20th century
Bodhin Kjolhede is an American Sōtō/Rinzai Zen roshi and Abbot of the Rochester Zen Center, a role he assumed in 1986. He is known for founding the "Cloud-Water Sangha," an international network of Zen centers guided by teachers within his lineage. Kjolhede was ordained as a priest in 1976 and formally recognized as a Dharma-successor in 1986.
Key Facts
- ›Born in 1948, Bodhin Kjolhede is an American Zen Buddhist.
- ›He is the Abbot of the Rochester Zen Center, a position he has held since 1986.
- ›Kjolhede founded the "Cloud-Water Sangha," an international community of Zen centers.
- ›He was ordained as a priest in 1976.
- ›He is recognized as a Dharma-successor to Philip Kapleau.
- ›Kjolhede has authorized ten disciples as Zen teachers.
Important Relationships
Rochester Zen Center, Chapin Mill
Philip Kapleau
Priest Ordination
About Bodhin Kjolhede
Bodhin Kjolhede, born in 1948, is an American roshi recognized within both the Sōtō and Rinzai schools of Zen Buddhism. He holds the position of Abbot at the Rochester Zen Center (RZC), a significant role he assumed in 1986 when Philip Kapleau stepped down from teaching. Kjolhede is also the founder of the "Cloud-Water Sangha," an international network of Zen centers that are guided by teachers within his spiritual lineage.
Life and Training
Kjolhede's journey into Zen leadership began with his ordination as a priest in 1976. His formal installation as Philip Kapleau's Dharma-successor and Abbot of the Rochester Zen Center occurred in 1986. While he has been offered transmission within a Sōtō lineage, he has thus far chosen not to accept it, indicating a specific focus within his recognized lineage.
Lineage and Influence
As a teacher, Bodhin Kjolhede has authorized ten of his disciples to become teachers themselves. Some of these individuals have gone on to establish their own dharma successors, extending the reach of his teachings. The Cloud-Water Sangha, named as a translation of the Japanese term "unsui," comprises centers led by these students and their disciples, including notable centers in New Zealand, Germany, Mexico, and various locations within the USA and Europe.
Associated Locations
Key locations associated with Bodhin Kjolhede's work include the Rochester Zen Center and Chapin Mill, suggesting significant centers of practice and teaching under his guidance.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Bodhin Kjolhede?
Bodhin Kjolhede is an American Sōtō/Rinzai Zen roshi and Abbot of the Rochester Zen Center. He was born in 1948 and ordained as a priest in 1976.
What is the Rochester Zen Center?
The Rochester Zen Center (RZC) is a Zen Buddhist center where Bodhin Kjolhede serves as Abbot. He assumed this role in 1986 upon the retirement of Philip Kapleau from teaching.
What is the Cloud-Water Sangha?
The Cloud-Water Sangha is an international community of Zen centers founded by Bodhin Kjolhede. These centers are led by teachers within his lineage, including his authorized disciples and their successors.
When did Bodhin Kjolhede become Abbot of the Rochester Zen Center?
Bodhin Kjolhede became Abbot of the Rochester Zen Center in 1986, succeeding Philip Kapleau.
How many teachers has Bodhin Kjolhede authorized?
Bodhin Kjolhede has authorized ten of his disciples as teachers. Some of these teachers have gone on to establish their own dharma successors.
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