John Garrie
John Garrie, also known as John Garrie Roshi, was a British actor who transitioned into a respected teacher of Zen Buddhism. His teachings integrated elements from Zen, Theravada, Tibetan Buddhism, Taoism, and martial arts, with a particular emphasis on mindfulness practice he termed "Sati." He founded the Sati Society and authored "The Way is Without Flaw," a collection of his writings.
Key Facts
- ›Born John Garrie on May 18, 1923, and passed away on September 22, 1998.
- ›Began his career as a British actor, appearing in television shows like 'the Avengers' and films such as 'Madhouse'.
- ›Became a teacher of Zen Buddhism, drawing from multiple traditions including Theravada and Tibetan Buddhism, as well as Taoism and martial arts.
- ›Founded the Sati Society, which was primarily based in the West Country of England.
- ›Developed and taught a mindfulness practice called 'Sati', heavily influenced by Theravadan Satipatthana training.
- ›Authored the book 'the Way is without Flaw', a collection of his writings and talks.
Important Relationships
- Sati Society
the Way Is Without Flaw, Peace To All Beings
West Country, England
Zen Buddhism, Theravada Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism, Taoism, Martial Arts
English
About John Garrie
John Garrie Roshi
John Garrie, later known as John Garrie Roshi, was a British actor who found a second career as a respected teacher of Zen Buddhism. Born in 1923, his life journey spanned both the performing arts and deep spiritual practice, culminating in his significant contributions to Buddhist teachings in the West.
Acting Career
Before his spiritual path, John Garrie was active in the British entertainment industry during the 1960s and 1970s. He appeared in popular television series such as "The Avengers," "Z-Cars," and "UFO." His film credits include roles in "Madhouse" and "The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes." An episode of "Danger Man" saw him play an "Old Japanese Man," a role that uncannily foreshadowed his later immersion in Eastern philosophy.
Meditation Teacher
Transitioning from acting, John Garrie Roshi became a prominent teacher of Zen Buddhism. His approach was notably inclusive, integrating teachings from Zen, Theravada, and Tibetan Buddhist traditions, alongside influences from Taoism and martial arts. He emphasized a mindfulness practice he termed "Sati," which drew significantly from the Theravadan Satipatthana training. To facilitate this practice and community, he founded the Sati Society, primarily based in England's West Country. He is also remembered for composing the blessing "Peace to all Beings," which remains in use by his former and current students.
Published Works
John Garrie Roshi's teachings have been preserved through various means. Many of his talks from Satipatthana 'Workshops' were recorded and are still accessible. A significant collection of his written works was published in 1998 under the title "The Way is Without Flaw," with an online publication following in 2015, ensuring his wisdom continues to be shared.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What was John Garrie known for before becoming a Buddhist teacher?
Before dedicating himself to teaching Buddhism, John Garrie had a career as a British actor. He appeared in various television shows during the 1960s and 1970s, including 'The Avengers', 'Z-Cars', and 'UFO', as well as in films like 'Madhouse'.
What Buddhist traditions influenced John Garrie Roshi's teachings?
John Garrie Roshi's teachings were eclectic, drawing from several traditions. These included Zen, Theravadan Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism, as well as Taoism and martial arts. He placed a significant emphasis on mindfulness practice.
What is 'Sati' as taught by John Garrie Roshi?
'Sati' was the term John Garrie Roshi used for the mindfulness practice he taught. This practice was heavily influenced by concepts found within Theravadan Buddhist Satipatthana training.
What organization did John Garrie Roshi found?
John Garrie Roshi founded the Sati Society. This organization was generally based in the West Country of England and served as a hub for his teachings and community.
What are some notable published works by John Garrie Roshi?
A collection of John Garrie Roshi's writings was published in 1998 under the title 'The Way is Without Flaw'. Many of his talks given during workshops were also taped and are available.
Related Buddhists
Diego Rafecas
Diego Rafecas was an Argentine actor and director, born in Buenos Aires in 1970. He is primarily known for directing and acting in the film "Un Buda" (A Buddha). Rafecas also studied philosophy and Zen Buddhism, integrating these influences into his artistic work before his death in 2017.
Małgorzata Braunek
Małgorzata Braunek was a Polish film and stage actress who also became a dedicated practitioner and teacher of Zen Buddhism. She is known for her acting career, which began after she left acting school to pursue film, and later for her significant role in the Zen Buddhist community.
Adyashanti
Adyashanti, born Stephen Gray, is an American spiritual teacher and author known for his teachings on awakening and embodying enlightenment. He founded Open Gate Sangha with his wife Mukti, a nonprofit organization that disseminates his talks, courses, and retreats. Adyashanti's work draws from Zen Buddhism and Christian mysticism, emphasizing a direct experience of truth beyond religious dogma.