Choan Bertelsen Roshi
Choan Bertelsen Roshi, also known by several other names including Choan Denko Mokudo Bertelsen, Egmund Sommer, Denko Møller, and John Mortensen, is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist priest and teacher. He is recognized for founding Cho-An, the first Zen temple building in Denmark, and for his role within the American Zen Teachers Association. Bertelsen received Dharma transmission in 2002.
Key Facts
- ›Founded Cho-An, the first Zen temple building in Denmark.
- ›Ordained as a Rinzai Zen Buddhist priest on July 4, 1980.
- ›Received Dharma transmission from Eido Shimano in 2002.
- ›Broke with his teacher Eido Shimano to become an independent teacher.
- ›Is a member of the American Zen Teachers Association.
Important Relationships
- Eido Shimano
Cho-An , Denmark, Ryutaku-Ji, Japan
Soen Nakagawa, Eido Shimano
Ordained As A Rinzai Zen Buddhist Priest
About Choan Bertelsen Roshi
Choan Bertelsen Roshi, also known by aliases such as Choan Denko Mokudo Bertelsen, Egmund Sommer, Denko Møller, and John Mortensen, is a significant figure in the introduction of Rinzai Zen Buddhism to Denmark. He is recognized as the founder of Havredal Zendo (meaning 'Oats Valley Zendo'), which holds the distinction of being the first dedicated Zen temple building established in Denmark.
Life and Historical Context
Bertelsen's interest in Zen Buddhism began in Denmark during the late 1960s. His path led him to Ryutaku-ji in Japan, where he encountered Soen Nakagawa. Later, he became a student under Soen Nakagawa's successor, Eido Shimano. Bertelsen was formally ordained as a Rinzai Zen Buddhist priest on July 4, 1980. He received Dharma transmission from Eido Shimano in 2002, signifying his qualification to teach and transmit the lineage.
Teachings and Affiliations
Following his Dharma transmission, Bertelsen eventually separated from Eido Shimano and established himself as an independent teacher. He is a member of the American Zen Teachers Association, an organization that connects Zen teachers in North America. While specific details of his teachings are not elaborated, his foundation of a Zen temple and his lineage within Rinzai Zen indicate a commitment to traditional Zen practices and philosophy.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Choan Bertelsen Roshi?
Choan Bertelsen Roshi, also known by names such as Choan Denko Mokudo Bertelsen, Egmund Sommer, Denko Møller, and John Mortensen, is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist priest and teacher. He is known for establishing the first Zen temple building in Denmark.
What is Cho-An?
Cho-An, also known as Havredal Zendo, is a Buddhist temple in the Rinzai Zen tradition. It was founded by Choan Bertelsen Roshi and is notable for being the first Zen temple building established in Denmark.
When was Choan Bertelsen Roshi ordained?
Choan Bertelsen Roshi was ordained as a Rinzai Zen Buddhist priest on July 4, 1980. He later received Dharma transmission from his teacher, Eido Shimano, in 2002.
What is Choan Bertelsen Roshi's affiliation?
Choan Bertelsen Roshi is affiliated with the Rinzai Zen tradition. He is also a member of the American Zen Teachers Association.
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