Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - speaks about recovery from addiction in relation to Buddhist practice and responds to questions in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded at an online talk as the keynote speaker at an online summit conference of the international Buddhist Recovery Network.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations:
- AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003, also as ebook and audiobook) 
- Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021, also as ebook and audiobook)
- On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024, also as ebook)
- Applied Zen- A Short Guide to an Active Meditation Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2025, also as ebook)
 
https://www.zaltho.org/books/

To support, donate.

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:


31:28
 Could you describe the two types of karma? And how do you spell "Mara," and what does it mean?
33:30
 You mentioned that we don't really have choices. Could you say more about that?
35:06
 What is the second part of making one's bed in the morning?
35:50
 I am curious about your pilgrimage from Poland to Vietnam—could you share more about that?
39:12
 What can I do in response to the rise of authoritarianism in the United States?
42:20
 Could you explain the logic or purpose behind making one's bed in the morning?
44:37
 How did you work through or heal from your war wounds?
46:29
 Do you still attend AA meetings?
47:00
 Could you tell us about your experience studying in a monastery?
48:20
 Sometimes I can sit easily; other times it's difficult. How should I work with shorter or more challenging sitting periods?
50:40
 What do you recommend for those of us who live alone and tend to stay in our heads a lot?
52:00
 Regarding sitting with suffering—did you learn to do that on your own or with others?
53:55
 Do you believe addiction can be cured?
56:20 
Can you recommend any books that have been helpful to you?

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, peace activist, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses on September 14th, 2025 after Claude AnShin Thomas' weeklong visit to Odessa, Ukraine and a 5-day pilgrimage in and around Cologne, Germany.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021, also as audiobook)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003, also as audiobook)

-       On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

https://www.zaltho.org/books/

 To support, donate.

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:

1:09 — How do you work with ambivalence?
1:47 — How do you deal with people who are inattentive?
2:53 — In addition to waking up, is sitting also a practice for reducing suffering?
4:48 — Does ambivalence manifest as resistance?
5:23 — Are you afraid of rejection?
6:00 — What kinds of reflections have arisen for you after your recent visit to Ukraine?
7:24 — Can you tell us what will happen tomorrow as you begin your pilgrimage?
8:55 — Do you think it's helpful to work with the nervous system and how it stores trauma responses?
9:40 — What is your experience of walking in silence during pilgrimage?
11:02 — Would you be willing to share something about your trip to Ukraine and your time with Washin?
17:40 — During pilgrimage, did you sing out loud or remain silent?

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations: 
- Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)
- AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)
- On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

https://www.zaltho.org/books/

To support, donate.

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

1:13
How was the feedback and resonance with your event last year in Amsterdam?
2:46
Have you experienced any of the violence in Amsterdam that took place last year?
3:42
Do you expect your students to not mention you as their teacher?

4:52 How does one negotiate how much silence to have in one's life? 6:06 Would you speak more about the compassion you developed for your mother who showed violence to you when you were a child? 6:57 What do you think about memorial services for the historic day of the Reich's Progrom Night in Germany? 9:31 Are you concerned with all the happenings in and around the world? 10:26 Do you have any plans to get on the road on you motorcycle when you your are in the US? 10: 38 Is it important to practice in one lineage with one practice and not dabble around here and there? 11:24 If a public memorial service falls into one of our practice times, should I go to the memorial service or come to practice?  13:09 In the mornings I recite the Four Great Vows; in the evening I recite the life-death-verse. Should I change something?  14:02 Did I understand it correctly that Cleo was a cat? 14:29 Have you ever had to put one of your pets to sleep? If so, did you stay with the animal during the euthanasia? 15:26 After experiencing the euthanasia of a cat several times, does it get easier?

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations: 
- Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

- AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

- On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

https://www.zaltho.org/books/

 If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.
Questions and Time Stamps:

1:23
When a person gets killed who has done many terrible things, should one celebrate their death?
2:09 How do you differentiate the inner voice that gives good advice and the one that keeps one trapped in suffering?
2:34 When does it happen to you that you don't see what the world is telling you?
3:16 Would you talk about it or give an example of the decision that past trauma can become an asset?
5:11 What is the point to answer a person who always asks the same questions?
5:39 Did you do a specialized therapy to address the consequences of your mother's violent behavior toward you?
7:25 Can competitiveness be a good thing or is it always best not to compare oneself with others?
8:24 Is part of the healing process to "re-feel" the feelings of the child that has been abused?
10:28 When the neighbor across the street verbally assaulted you, were there any feelings when you didn't respond violently or agressively?
12:12 When you no longer have to react  the same way to certain events, isn't that the freedom through practice?
12:45 Would you share your thoughts on the precept of not being stingy with the Dharma?
13:19 When I am asked to provide instructions on the form of meditation, should I always say yes no matter the circumstances
14:08 Do you think that it is important to make mistakes so we can develop ourselves?
14:37 Do you still repeat mistakes?
15:31 Are all practical things spiritual?
15:44 Is there a difference between mistakes and errors?
16:26 When you make a mistake, do you feel embarrassment, humiliation or shame?
16:45 How is it to be back at the Red Maple Zen Center in Italy?
17:47 The room that you are in looks like it is an ancient structure. Can you describe where you are physically?

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations: 
- Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)
- AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)
- On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)
https://www.zaltho.org/books/

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.
Questions and Time Stamps:
1:49 Is it necessary to be barefooted when doing sitting meditation?
3:05 I do sitting meditation in the dark prior to going to bed. Does the amount of light matter?
3:58 How has it been for you working with restless energy?
4:45 Would you say your experience with also having leadership that it goes along with some form of sacrifice?
6:08 Sometimes I find it so difficult to sit with restless energy. Do you have a recommendation?
7:44 Is the 99 percent of the time when I am distracted from paying attention to my breatht a waste of time?
8:30 Have you been able to stay present to your breath for the full period of sitting?
8:50 My breathing and  heartbeat sometimes get quicker during sitting, and I try to get this into a more even pattern, but that then becomes stressful.
10:05 When you have a period of sitting where you didn't get distracted at all, do you say to yourself, "great job."?
10:57 How did you spend your birthday?
12:49 You have said that, "If you think you are enlightened, then you are not." Is it possible to know when one is enlightened?
14:33 Do you feel a difference when you do listen to that small inner voice?
15:20 Why do you emphasize making your bed accurately ?
17:25 How do you teach that commitment to children?

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

-       On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

https://www.zaltho.org/books/

 

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

 

Questions and Time Stamps:
2:18 Why were you referring to "your" son and "that" grandson?
3:09 How do I work with my ego taking over when I have achieved many goals?
4:51 Does impermanence sometimes frighten you?
6:07 Would you be willing to share some of your experience about the sentence, "As I am, the world becomes."?
8:12 Is there anything that we can possibly think that is indeed the way we think it is?
9:24 Would you be willing to speak on the process that you use for choosing a dharma name for a student?
11:01 Is there something that scares you?
14:49 How would you work with somebody who cannot physically sew a rakusu (lay robe) because of being disabled?
16:18 How would you feel about me throwing in my sewing skills
16:50 What role does friendliness play in Zen practice?
18:28 What is your take on "false pride"?
19:52 Do you find you can learn more about people in a silent retreat than you can by having a conversation with them?

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations:

- Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)
- AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)
- On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

https://www.zaltho.org/books/

 If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:
1:16 Could you speak on the relationship between enabling and compassion?

2:57 What is violence?   5:05 What remarkable features characterize violence especially in its subtle manifestations?   7:23 What would squandering one's life look like to you?   9:28 What if the consequences of somebody's action cause me harm or my family, or the environment that I live in? 

12:52 How did your neighbor react to your comment and did they continue to drive over the box?

  13:32 Can there ever be peace after war?   14:38 What does healing mean for you?   15:23 When you replace a motor on a washing machine, and it works, does that bring you peace?   16:46 When you do things like repair something, do you listen to any music?   17:11 What is an example of peace in war?   18:24 Do you experience a sense of adventure or a sense of coming home during your travels?

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations:
- Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)
- AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)
- On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)
https://www.zaltho.org/books/

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:
1:30 How come it is sometimes difficult to just go ahead and do something?

2:05 What are the current requirements to study with you?

3:42 Do you have a secret to keeping the one breath in mind and not losing it?

4:54 What do you think of this movement of manifesting your life and of connecting it with quantum physics, does this work?

5:37 What is the role of courage?

7:00 Would you share something that was important at the beginning of your practice?

8:26 What can I do about feeling more safe about going into the unknown?

9:35 What would you say is the difference between the need for approval and insecurity? 

11:23 What has become clear to you recently?

12:37 Which experiences did you make with feeling excluded and the desire to belong?

14:51 How would you define healthy relationships? 

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

-       On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

https://www.zaltho.org/books/

 If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

 

Questions and Time Stamps:
1:27 How do you deal with defiance today?
2:06 When experiencing physical or emotional pain, should I relate to that as an opportunity?
3:29 Is it your impression that aggression and violence in this society (and war) is increasing?
4:25 Do you have any suggestions on how to maintain mindfulness without constantly drifting away?
4:57 When you have physical pain what is the moment for you to see a doctor?
6:07 In what way does a board-of-director-retreat differ from a regular retreat?
7:09 Do you see a difference between inner and outer hindrances on the spiritual path?
7:53 If there is no spiritual path, could you have stayed then with alcoholism and drug addiction?
8:53 Do you feel that a lay practitioner can enhance their practice by attention retreats regularly?
10:44 Can avoidance or denial sometimes be helpful?
11:51 Do you believe that denial or avoidance can sometimes protect people from emotions that they are unable to handle at that time?
13:10 How do you understand courage today?
14:02 What is the difference between being clear and being dominant?
16:35 How do you go about establishing priorities when you have multiple responsibilities or tasks?
17:58 If the list of priorities stresses me, how can I do it better?18:19 Do you think that people with a propensity for addiction should also maintain a twelve step participation?

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations:

- Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-  AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

- On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:

1:19 Would you share your view on assisted suicide?   2:28 Are blame and praise obstacles?   3:34 Is assisted suicide a form of violence?   5:15 How come you prefer to not use the work 'transition'?   5:43 What is failure and how can I accept it?   6:50 What is your perspective on meditation that involves visualization?   8:13 What have you recently learned from the cats that live with you?   9:04 What is your understanding of self-compassion?   9:14 Do you still sometimes isolate yourself?   9:45 Are contemplation and self-reflection the same?   10:26 Did you stop taking drugs immediately or in a process?   11:29 Do you read fiction?   12:13 Is it possible to keep one's energy completely stable?   13:18 Does practice help to find a place of rest within activity?   13:42 Can selfishness and self-compassion be confused?   14:02 Would you speak about attachment?   15:00 What has been a recent book of fiction that you have read?

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

Book recommendations:
-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

-       On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:
1:11
Is seeking pleasure a selfish desire?

1:24  Do you think that it is important to experience times when nothing seems to give stability or security?   2:22 Can certain actions be characterized as showing both selfish and unselfish desire?   3:06 I am interested to know with sitting meditation if it is at all important what we wear?   4:02 How do you prepare for a public talk?   5:19 What drew you to the Buddhist tradition you are practicing in in contrast to another Buddhist tradition?   6:53 If there is no soul, no separate self, what do you believe which part that is being reborn?   8:29 What if I like to divert from the recommended 5-minute-sitting morning and evening to sit sometimes longer or also sit at different times of the day?   9:38 Sitting meditation helps me to get me out of hamster-wheel-thinking. Is it okay to practice it like that?   10:14 How has the desire for extinction manifested in your life?   10:58 In the two monasteries where you trained, were the instructions on how to breathe during meditation practice identical or different?    11:27 What was the reason at the first time you were asked to getting ordained to say no and the second time to say yes?

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - speaks on the topic "Bringing Meditation to Life" during a public talk in October 2023 in Germany.

He addresses his own inherited karma and how Buddhist practice helped him to transform that karma. Today his life is based in being-of-service. "When healing occurs to self, all past generations experience healing", states Claude AnShin Thomas. 

The questions at the end of the talk include such as: 
- How important is it to have a teacher? 
- How has your view of death and dying changed from the perspective of your Buddhist practice?
- How does the world become better through Buddhist practice?

You can find ZalthoLIVE on all major podcast channels: Apple, Google, Spotify, AmazonMusic, and Audible and also here: 
https://zaltho.org/en/media/podcasts-zaltholive.html

For more information: https://zaltho.org/
If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org.
For more information: https://zaltho.org/
If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Book recommendations: 
-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)
-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)
-       On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from veterans based on his decades of Zen practice and his life experiences to include war. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a period of questions & responses during a 5-day veterans retreat in March of 2020 to address the consequences of military post-traumatic stress.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations:

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003, also as audiobook)

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021, also as audiobook)

-       On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

https://www.zaltho.org/books/

To support, donate.

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:

1:07 When I choose not to speak about certain things, is that avoidance or acceptance?

1:28 Is avoidance always something I should avoid?

16:57 Should I stay or leave the retreat?

18:10 Could you share more about what it means to surrender?

22:46 Is it possible to truly redeem oneself?

29:10 How can one find balance in life?

34:00 How do you relate to suffering?

52:06 Do you ever miss being a soldier?

You can find ZalthoLIVE on all major podcast channels: Apple, Google, Spotify, AmazonMusic, and Audible and also here:

https://zaltho.org/en/media/podcasts-zaltholive.html

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
This episode was recorded during a weekly zoom session of questions&responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Book recommendations: 
-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)
-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)
https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html 

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.
 
Questions and Time Stamps:
01:15
You said that Keith received the Dharma name "DaiShin". What does this name mean?

1:44
DaiShin, how was the ordination process for you? 

2:08
Was there any issue with the administrators of the ordination location (concentration camp Dachau, Germany)?

3:16
Would you speak a bit about 'commitment' and how the quality of commitment has changed in your life as a monk?

5:11
To review our personal past: is this just a sign of attachment or can it be healthy?

7:00
If I feel hurt by something someone has said, is it important to let them know?

9:44
How do you "surf the urge" when you have a craving? 

12:14
Where is this refrigerator (re:previous response) standing now? Is it still existing?

13:17
Do you think at some level you and the refrigerator are connected?

13:32
Could you share with us what has maybe been the happiest day of your life?

13:56
Do you think inanimate objects such as cushions and refrigerators have consciousness?

14:21
What about the consciousness of plants?

15:26
Do you know the feeling of shame about your supposed weakness in connection to your traumatization? 

17:40
Is it about falling right into the shame and to feeling it?

You can find ZalthoLIVE on all major podcast channels: Apple, Google, Spotify, AmazonMusic, and Audible.

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a weekly zoom session of questions&responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

 If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.
Questions and Time Stamps:

1:15 What is the significance of breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth?

2:07 What kind of internal dialogue or questions did you have when you began with sitting meditation?

3:01 Do you want to control processes sometimes?

4:22 Was there a difference for you between following instructions in the military and following instructions when you started in that first monastery?

5:42 What is the difference between control and discipline?

6:45 What do you do if a situation or a person is emotionally challenging you?

7:39 How long did it take for you to learn to sit in meditation (facing the wall) without worrying what might be coming from behind you?

8:29 What does time mean for you in your daily life and also in a Buddhist context?

11:43 When you went from practicing in the first monastery to the second monastery, under a different teacher and somewhat different school, how did you deal with any differences in the instructions you were given?

12:54 What was necessary to leave the life on the street?

13:51 Can you explain the statement that you said earlier that control is being forced into something that one is not comfortable with?

15:02 Do you find that the practice of paying attention is generally adequate to lead to the most appropriate response, for instance in a difficult situation?

16:20 Has anger also a good side?

16:53 Is there a difference between controlling someone when you are a like teacher or a parent with a child or student instead an adults when they are on the same level?

On Vietnam Veterans Day, 29 March, Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, Vietnam combat Veteran, and author - gave a talk to the employees of a cancer-biotech company. Their interest was that Claude AnShin Thomas' own journey of healing and transformation of the wounds of war mirror the turbulences and peace finding efforts in high stakes crisis and hardship of many people, to include cancer patients. 

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

Contact Email: info@zaltho.org

Book recommendations:
-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)
-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)
https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.

This episode was recordedon online zoom retreat session of questions&responses.
For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Book recommendations: 
-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)
-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)
https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.
 
Questions and Time Stamps:
1:09
Would you share what a byproduct as a result of practice is for you?
2:58
A question about the bells at the altar.
3:30 
Did you have moments when you thought you cannot continue on with this practice? 
3:52
What do you do for fun and relaxation?
5:45 
About regret: can it be to be present to our past actions, to our errors, and in a way to not repeat them?
7:04
Would you share a little bit with us about how you relate nowadays to your hand that is missing a piece of a finger?
8:23
Sometimes I feel like I am surrounded by people who suck energy. Is that just my fantasy?
12:02
Do you think it is important or valuable to travel to new countries and cultures? 
13:30 
As you mature, is there anything now that seems urgent that wasn't in the past?
14:45
How do you work with the news? Especially when it is disturbing, when you hear or read about things that are just full of violence or craziness?
19:18
Do you yourself also have the possibility to ask questions like in the setting we can do it right now?
19:38
In order to become more aware of the reality of life, do you find it valuable to also study science, for instance physics, astrophysics, biology, or chemistry?
20:37
Do you sometimes still have strong emotions, like a rush or wave of emotions?
20:48 
With every week that passes by, when I do meditation it seems like I meet fewer people. Am I getting funny?
22:51
Is sports in the dynamic of winner and loser another way of war?
24:28
Would you say that distractions got more with smart phones?
24:58
Going back to the athletics: when you watch football, what's  that experience like for you?
27:21
How would you respond to someone who is reaching the end of their life and their mind is filled with thoughts of disappointment?
29:41
Men are mainly responsible for war. Is war is an expression of the way men think?
32:21
Would you have some examples of how you have dealt skillfully or not skillfully with people who try to force their agenda on you?
34:19
Do you have any sense about where we are now in our evolution as a species?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a weekly zoom session of questions&responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Book recommendations:  -       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021) -       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003) https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html
If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.
Questions and Time Stamps: 1:14 With the death of animals occurring all the time everywhere around you, how do you determine which animal you formally mourn when they die? **** 2:08 How are you dealing with restless energy when you have a situation where you can rest and want to rest but there is this restless energy? **** 2:36 What are your thoughts at the moment, on the situation that there is a common narrative that one is either for one side or for the other side but you cannot be both. Do you think one needs to take sides? **** 4:03 What do you think are the roots of antisemitism over the centuries? **** 6:05 What would you say to someone who tells me that they are sad that Muslims are often portrayed as terrorists or backward in conservative news cycles and a certain segments of public opinion in the US? **** 8:51 Today, Veterans Day in the U.S., is there anything special or specific that you do? **** 9:54 In newspapers and on television the focus seems to be primarily on the civilians that die during war. I don't read or hear too much about the soldiers that die. How do you respond to this focus? **** 11:16 My question is similar: with going to war, women are being raped as part of it and also this is not being talked about. Do you think that this is out of similar reasons? Because it is a topic that is filled with shame? **** 12:27 AnShin, are you aware of the trend to speak about moral injury and moral distress in the world of health care and health care workers? What do you think about the application of these terms 'moral injury' and 'moral distress'? **** 14:03 In the military, a soldier is obligated to follow orders unless those orders are against human rights. Isn't that a little bit much responsibility to ask of them? **** 15:30 Do you think that the people who give orders to the soldiers suffer moral injury? **** 17:03 When I am speaking with my Israeli friend whose relatives are fighting in Gaza, whose family members are being bombed in Tel Aviv, is my perspective meaningless and irrelevant or should I share it?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a weekly zoom session of questions&responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Book recommendations: 

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

 

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:
1:10
How do you manage it to be light on your feet during challenging times?
1:48
Is there a way to deal spiritually healthily with fame and gain?
2:54
How do you practice forgiveness?
4:46
Last week something happened in my life where it happened that this person created harm for me. I did speak with this person, but the person doesn't see it this way. Now I catch myself wishing a similar situation to happen to her. How can I deal with this?
7:35
Could you speak about why in practice one should not settle?
8:48
What is your process around "letting go" for, say, something you are chewing on?
9:49
Do you have any idea or thought how we could be of service to a quarreling city government?
10:21
How could you meditate when you feel really sick, can hardly breath, cough and everything?
11:35
Are there people that you have problems working with because maybe they evoke old behavior patterns in you. Like they remind you of your mom or dad?
12:42
In your life how do you practice the slogan, "how important is it?"14:42
Do you sometimes remember for yourself what you can be thankful for or are you naturally thankful for all kinds of things?
16:36
Do you have actually an alive teacher?
16:50
What do you think about the scientific pursuit to possibly extend human life indefinitely that at this time is attracting significant investment?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a weekly zoom session of questions&responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Book recommendations: 

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:
1:12
What would you say to somebody who says:"I like to smoke pot every day. It makes me happy, productive, and I relate better to other people.. What's wrong with that?"
****
2:35
You are recommending that people sit twice a day. What would you say if someone was asking you what for?
****
3:38 
How do you know and then how do you respond if someone is trying to manipulate?
****
5:38 
How come there are not more people of African origins in Zen groups?
****
6:27
Do you sometimes have bad temper without a reason and if so, do you then do efforts to understand how come?
****
8:54
From the point of view of our practice are there good moods and bad moods?
****
9:45
Would you find it useful and meaningful and also appropriate to include a meditation practice into a psychotherapeutic setting?
****
11:24
How can I deal with a grieving that suddenly overcomes me in connection with animals that I was part of them dying and at the time when it happened I did not process any of that?
****
12:49
In which ways can meditation be dangerous?
****
13:48
Does a personal response to outside stimuli ever surprise you meaning your own thoughts?
****
14:22
What does it do to you when people are initially inflamed by practice after visiting a talk or retreat and don't continue on? Or people abandon practice and don't come back?
****
15:27
How do I deal with a conversation in which I am sharing about my experience with meditation practice and I am being treated offensively or hurtfully?
****
17:36
When someone is angry with you, how do you deal with that?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk, Combat Veteran, and Author - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a weekly zoom session of questions&responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations: 

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:
01:11 
What do you look forward when you go back to the US? What do you hope for?
****
2:04
I met a young man who was asking for money to buy himself something to drink. I told him I don't want to give him money but that I would buy him something to drink. He did agree. In this case, is this unconditional giving?
****
3:19
As Buddhist practice originated in Asia, how much do we need to look there regarding authentic practice?
****
4:31
Can you speak about relative and absolute a bit? Do relative and absolute ever cross or come together at all?
****
6:22
I had a near death experience two days ago. What surprised me is that I wasn't too afraid of death, but I was terrified of leaving alone my little son and my wife. How do I deal with this without controlling another's life?
****
8:21 
Is there any sense in feeling upset and disrespected when a religious text is being burned?
****
9:48
I was traveling yesterday and people were driving very erratically. A group of cars got into a pileup, and I drove by and thought that was 'poetic justice'. Is my thinking just crazy? 
****
10:58 
What do you say to someone who asserts: the "true" Buddhism exists among people in Asia or people of Asian descent and not among Western converts like you or me?
****
12:04
Is there meaning to define ourselves as Buddhist?
****
12:49
What would be your reaction when someone says a comment like: "All the BASF places are closing now in Ludwigshafen and so all the Turkish people will go away, and then it's finally German again."
How would you react to such sentences?
****
13:58
Do you never have the wish or a desire to convince someone else about a right or wrong position?
****
14:46
Someone said that on the 4th of July they were thanking their father and grandfather for fighting. I was tempted to say something about what the 4th of July stands for. All this is a waste of time, did I understand this correctly?
****
17:03
What is with finding a compromise when there are two different opinions and a discussion is necessary to find a compromise?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk, Combat Veteran, and Author - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a weekly zoom session of questions&responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations: 

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

 

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

 

Questions and Time Stamps:
1:24
How do you respond when someone who has asked you forsupport consistently doesn't change?
****
2:20
Is it possible to have your mind on the essential point (of breath) and on something else at the same time while supposedly sitting in meditation?
****
3:36
AnShin, do you ever feel like you are going crazy when you had that experience or those experiences (referencing previous response)?
****
3:50
Is it your impression that nowadays in society dehumanization is increasing, for example with artificial intelligence?
****
4:58
You often respond to questions pointing in the direction of acceptance and surrender. Would you speak about that?
****
6:14
Why is it important to you to make your bed in the morning?
****
6:53
I heard you say and write that it is important to keep telling our story. How do you make sure that you are not cementing one particular narrative?
****
7:29
 Is the essential point part of relative and absolute at the same time?
****
8:29
Last weekend I was with my son, and we went on a walk with our dog in the countryside. The dog killed three chicken. My son and I witnessed that killing. He is 1-year-old, and he clearly was affected by this. How do I explain this to him?
****
9:25
Do you think a machine could ever become sentient?
****
10:34
I read emotions are empty. The problem is I tend to attach to them and then they become very powerful and have this feeling I am right. So, my emotion is right and it gets even bigger. How could I do better?
****
14:20
Where would you draw a line when your being generous crosses over into being exploited?
****
15:08
Can you expand on what you just said, about how inappropriate giving is fodder for more extreme reactions?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a weekly zoom session of questions&responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations: 

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions, so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:
1:30
Can the perceived need for "trigger warnings" (cautionary words when disturbing audio or visual material is being shown) go to far
2:38
I'm curious if you could speak to how writing (if it is a spiritual practice) has served you?
4:28  
With the wars in Europe and the escalating violence in the Middle East, do you ever feel anxious about the possibility of a third world war?
6:24
I read an article where a very detailed horror of war and terror was described. Is there anything you could say on redemptive violence and what it is that drives torture?
9:36
Do you not make a separation between war and peace for the current time and world war?
10:52
This realization that humanity is in a constant state of war, isn't that for you helpless and frustrating, and if yes how do you deal with that?
11:27
For KenShin: How do you feel now that you are by yourself at the (Magnolia Zen) Center?
11:50
Earlier you talked about being a real meaningful support to people affected by war. What is the essence, what is the most supportive to such people?
12:26
I do have a craving for recognition. How can I not act out of this
13:10
As a combat veteran, what do you understand about the mind of these young men in the Middle East who killed a lot of defenseless women, children?

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, peace activist, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses in spring 2022.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Zen monk Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Zen Book recommendations:
-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021, also as audiobook)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003, also as audiobook)

-       On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

https://www.zaltho.org/zen-books-by-zen-monk-claude-anshin-thomas/

To support, donate.

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:
(1:47)
How is the Zaltho Zen community responding to the ongoing war in Ukraine?

(12:30)
As someone living in Hungary, there's a real possibility that the war could reach us. What should we do if that happens?

(18:18)
What emotions arise for you when you see images from the war in Ukraine?

(25:16)
What advice would you offer to President Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian government, and the Ukrainian people?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a weekly zoom session of questions&responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

 Zen teacher Claude AnShin Thomas responds inspiringly from Zen practice and his life experiences

 

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a weekly zoom session of questions&responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of  questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:
1:12 What do you do when you notice that you got stuck in an a certain pattern that feels uncomfortable, (if you have such and experience)?
******
2:34 There is a study where dying people were asked what they regret. The number one that was mentioned most often is the regret of not having lived one's own life. How do you relate to that? Or how do you see that spiritually: living one's own life?
******
3:04 I have gotten a couple emails recently from other groups that are celebrating "Vesak" again? I am curious, is there multiple "Vesak" days?
******
4:16 Has any of the protests affected your movement or anything you are doing?
******
5: 15 At the moment when you travel quickly from one place to the next, how long does it take you to arrive there with your whole being or is it that after awhile you haven't really arrived at all the places?
******
6: 17 How do you work with the "ant street" passing through your kitchen in relationship to the precept of not killing?
******
7:35 What are you able to share with us about the topic of "failure?"
******
8:22 If you listen to a number of stories of suffering that people share with you on the same day, what do you do to not carry the sad stories with you around?
******
9:38 Referring back to KG's question, if everything is an idea, what is there tangible or is there anything?
******
11:46 In order to understand those two realms (relative and absolute) can science and intellect also be helpful with that or, in general, are they an obstacle?
******
13:32 Is this something you are currently engaged in, in such a study (in reference to previous response)?
******
14: 09 How do you explain expanded consciousness or the concept of with LSD?
******
15:27: A question to KenShin on how your return to the United States has been?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a weekly zoom session of questions&responses.

For more information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on these topics? Book recommendations: 

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

Questions and their time stamps:
1:10 If daily life and meditation are not two separate things, should we aim at keeping breath awareness as long as we are awake?
****
1:25 In my relationship, especially with cats, I realize that loving them comes with some attachment. How is it in practice that non-attachment doesn't mean not to love?
****
3: 34 Would you say that as humans most of our problems are created by ourselves, for example through our attitude or our behavior? ****
3:53 Do you have any recommendations for work when one is working with people with different cultural backgrounds? **** 6:55 Would you expand on a quote I read?  "When the mind appears reality disappears and when the mind disappears reality appears." **** 7:14 Is suicide ever a solution? **** 7:55 You mentioned that my conditioning is being reflected back to me by my world. Do you have an example of this? **** 8:36 Earlier in this session you said that expecting love to be reciprocated is to ignore the interconnectedness of the world? Could you explain that? **** 10:42 Do you see a difference between taking one's own life and or engaging in assisted dying? **** 11:07 How would you evaluate Buddhism in context of a perspective through the Abraham religions? **** 11:55 There are those poems from Rumi. Do they speak to you? **** 12:43 How can you see that the grass loves you? **** 13:27 Yesterday you mentioned to not to seek external comfort. If you support someone in their suffering, what are you doing it for if not to comfort them? **** 14:54 How would you respond to someone who sincerely believes that they perceive dead people and can speak for them? **** 16:16 I have problems with hearing something and understanding it in that moment, then remembering and repeating it. Mostly it's too much for me. **** 17:18 How would you respond to a teenager who says that she hates her mother, that her mother doesn't deserve any love or recognition, even though the mother does a lot for them?

This recording is from a public talk that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - gave in spring in Switzerland for the German language release of his book Bringing Meditation to Life. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations: 

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&responses session with a German-speaking audience.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

Questions and Time Stamps:
1:20: I wanted to ask this question to AnShin and KenShin but I can also now ask it of GenRai. If you wouldn't have become a monk or a nun which other job would have interested you?
****
3: 08: Your introduction to Questions and Responses and for meditation sounds to me always as fresh as you would do it for the first time. How do you do it?
****
4:50: Do you want to share something about the program of the promotion of the book that you have in Germany?
****
9:29: I was reading recently about the 5 Remembrances and they seem pretty straight forward. I was wondering if you had anything to add or experiences with the 5 Remembrances?
****
15:03: How is KenShin doing?
****
16:10: What is your relation with "supernatural?"
****
17:45: Do you think that a change of opinion is connected with age or aging?
****
19:05: Would you be willing to share about humor and what you think about it?
****
20:38: What are some tangible ways that you incorporate your practice into daily life?
****
27:34: How do you work with resentments when they come up?
****
30:09: Sometimes I hear something that is meant "Buddhist psychology". What do you know about this?
****
31:43: Could you imagine situations where emotionality is important to have?
****
33:56: I am interested to get more information about your disappointment about when a friend just does not connect anymore with you? 
****
36:12: I am just wondering about the name "AnGyo" and the red scarves.. What do those mean?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&responses session with a German-speaking audience.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

Questions and Time Stamps:
1:30 In which way are your father and your mother present in your life now, if they are present?
****
3:58 During sitting meditation, is it important to consciously slow down my breathing or do I just stay with whatever breathing pattern is natural at that time?
****
5:58 Would you share something about your experience of discipline?
****
8:16 This morning when you gave instructions for sitting meditation you said that it was best to not wear shoes and if it was cold to not wear socks. How come? 
****
10:16 When does discipline lead to feeling overwhelmed and tightness?
****
10:50 What your saying is, if I am not enjoying, for instance getting up very early in the morning and getting on with my day and I'd rather be in bed because I don't' like doing that, that's not discipline?
****
14:40 When does discipline lead to more serenity and freedom?
****
18:50 In my meditation practice I do experience on certain days I am busy with quite intense feelings which I usually reject internally and am fighting with it, and then I am not succeeding in meditating. What would you say about that?
****
21:08 Do you sometimes experience situations when you keep yourself small?
****
24:03 What are your thoughts on the idea of the value of looking or reflecting on the path?
****
27:24 When bringing little children into the zendo, when does it get to the point where the disturbance gets to big and I need to interact?
****
31:50 There is this saying that every response already exists in us. Do you have any idea how it comes that we are so deluded as humans that we don't have access to it?
****
34:21 I noticed lately that when I travel I become rigid and uptight. Is the response to that tension just to accept it or should I make an effort to change that and relax?
****
40: 08 (In reference to what was shared in previous question) Why didn't you just put the eyedrop in your eye?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&responses session with a German-speaking audience.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/our-books.html

Questions and Time Stamps:

1:18 What is the significance and meaning as well as the difference between sitting to the front and sitting to the back?
****
3:18 From where I am sitting, I am noticing a design stitched into the back of your rakusu and everybody seems to have it who has a rakusu. What is it?
****
4:11 What is most important for civilians to know about military veterans?
****
6: 32 How do you know the point is where the breath comes in without thinking about it?
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7:40 Does Buddhism and/or you recognize the concept of evil? And, if so, what does it mean in that context for you and Buddhism?
****
10:55 But one has to name things because otherwise the world wouldn't function either, right?
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13:25 Does this retreat with veterans feel more familiar than other retreats?
****
16:51 What is this ongoing joke about Bielefeld (city in Germany) existing or not existing?
****
19:06 Talking about the relative and the absolute realm, where, if anywhere, does the ego play in the relative realm?
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21:44 If there was a death to the sense of self, would I then experience the absolute realm?
****
28:27 My question is if you are either interacting or doing a retreat with police officers, in the relative realm, how would either work with them or encourage them to be non-violent?
****
40:32 How can I use the tools that you give us to throw off this very oppressive and heavy weight of karmic doom?
****
42:42 Do you have an idea how it comes  that for example my grandmother with age she now tells things about the war which she hasn't done before?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&responses session with a German-speaking audience.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

Questions and Time Stamps:
*1:40 I am noticing that I am have difficulties with recognition. I feel as if I need constant positive feedback for everything I do. How do I deal with it?

*7:34 You had mentioned another time that a friend of yours had cut off contact with you and you mentioned that you were probably "inconvenient for him." How far is it the case that you also  consider that this might be completely about him?   *11:59 Do you feel lonely sometimes and if so, how do you deal with this feeling?   *14:44 I was wondering if you found any relationship between the relief of pain and sitting?   *18:15 How or where do you perceive the absolute realm compared to the relative realm?   *21:07 Do you feel like your monk's robe and appearance as a Japanese Zen Buddhist Monk distances you from ordinary people with whom you meet daily,  generating separation and distance between you and others?   *24:28 What do you think if I should do if I feel constant and permanent pain in my soul?   *29:21 If the emphasis is to wake up from our own suffering, then why don't I just become a recluse and not deal with people and society?   *31: 29 When you say there is no soul, then all the other religions that believe in one wrong? And could one from a buddhist perspective say there is one-soul or one-mind?   *35:20 How important do you believe is it in interactions to also admire each other?   *36:30 Can you explain a little more of your thoughts on "bardo?'   *40:28 Can you describe when you have glimpsed the absolute realm and also when you have recognized it in other people and how you recognized it in other people?   *45:28 When in your life was the first time that you felt this burning desire for waking up?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&responses session with a German-speaking audience.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations: 

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

Time Codes:

• 02:18 If you wouldn't be an addict, do you think you would think differently?
• 03:18 How do you relate to the word, "hope?"
• 05:28 Could you share on how you perceive "not-broken"? What does it mean to you?
• 07:56 What should I do when someone personally attacks me to hurt me verbally?
• 10:47 When a person has a hard moment is that an awakening or something else?
• 12:22 Within the language of broken and not-broken, how do you talk about psychiatric illnesses?
• 17:24 Do I think it is possible to let go to attachment to life before dying?
• 22:07 How do you suggest dealing with anger?
• 24:12 Do you find yourself sometimes in survival mode?
• 27:04 How can one achieve not wanting to achieve something?
• 29:08 Is escape always negative or wrong?
• 30:48 When you are attacked verbally, how do you go about making a connection?
• 32:43 Do you have advice how to work with people who work differently than oneself?
• 34:50 How do you experience the difference between online and in-person practice?
• 37:44 How to remain kind with one's own negativity?
• 41:32 …., is this nature of love always the same, or the nature of life?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&responses session.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations: 

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

Time Codes:

• 1:20 Have you ever had a burst of laughter when it was not fitting, how you dealt with it?
• 2:20 I was wondering what you are learning about yourself at the present time in your life?
• 6:48 Do you experience any limitations that you encounter as you move through time?
• 8:17 Could you describe one or several spiritual awakenings you might have experienced through Zen practice?
• 11:28 Beyond the physical difference between men and women, what differences do you perceive?
• 13:42 I'm confused about when you say "sit just to sit" … Do you have any suggestion what to do with my confusion?
• 18:20 My mother experienced a lot of trauma in her childhood and still suffers a lot. And through this suffering she can be hurtful to other people. How can I be connected to her and have her in my life but not always get hurt by her?
• 23:13 I have a question about something you said on a podcast about a comment on social media about you do not following "real" Zen. Can you help me understand this?
• 27:52 I have heard the statement that it is up to me how much I let something or someone hurt me or anger me. What is your experience how much determination is really involved in that?
• 33:15 I know you make commitments in the morning, generally toward life. Is there any time you also ask for help let say, to the greater reality of the universe or interconnectedness, that I could use some help?
• 35:02 How do you digest all the suffering you are exposed to, the personal and also the wider suffering?
• 39:20 How are we not broken?
• 40:44 Are you worried for the future of your grandchildren in relation with climate change?
• 43:02 During the meditation practice I notice my way of being with thoughts when they come up, is different. I am wondering if that is natural and part of the process or if I am imposing things on my thoughts which at times can seem harsh?
• 49:07 My conditioning around death is rather dark and heavy. In the spirit of having more balance would you think it would be good to look a little more at it in a celebratory way?
• 52:04 There are behaviors we need to stop, and we stop those behaviors because we know that is for the better, right? …. Isn't that the same thing with the thoughts?

What is it like to live as a Zen Buddhist Monk? This and other questions from college students Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. 

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&responses session with a German-speaking audience.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

Questions from the students and the professor:

6:26 I've read that there are monks who are vegetarian and those who eat meat and I wonder which is true?

8:57 How do you, in Buddhist practice relate to difficult feelings and situations?

12:04 We did a group meditation in class which some remarked was difficult. Do you have any advice for them?

17:49 Are you saying meditation goes beyond the cushion?

21:02 What do you gain from meditation the most?

23:39 If meditation practice is something to continue to do, is there a benefit to practice?

25:39 I am asking about the role of compassion in your teachings and curious about how it influences you?

28:42 Is there any one school of Buddhism that focuses on compassion?

29:48 How has your military experience influenced your understanding of Buddhist practice?

36:08 Buddhist practice has helped you to rejoin the living?

39:27 How do you see a relationship between self-forgiveness and forgiveness of others?

42:30 My parents are Buddhists and eat fish on a specific day. How are you with this?

44:37 You said you feel you have an obligation to work with others when dealing with their (war) experiences. Is that a responsibility due to your Buddhist practice or is that a responsibility due to your experience of war?

49:40 You mentioned Buddhism is about being present and narcotics detaches one from reality. I was wondering about listening to music and if it is something you indulge or avoid?

54:20 Being silent has been difficult, yes?

56:00 I see Catholicism as male oriented and patriarchal, do you see any oppressive treatment of women in Buddhist practice?   61:02 I have a friend who is a Buddhist nun who complained about her treatment in the US as a woman.

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.

This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021, also as audiobook)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003, also as audiobook)

-       On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

https://www.zaltho.org/zen-books-by-zen-monk-claude-anshin-thomas/

 To support, donate.

 If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:

1:11 Are you initiating a new lineage?

2:14 During your pilgrimage from Auschwitz to Vietnam, did you encounter any teachers who were especially meaningful to you?

3:33 How do you sustain your curiosity about everything?

5:32 From your perspective, what makes a community truly meaningful or healthy?

7:04 How do you define self-esteem?

7:38 Do you believe that with heightened awareness, one can sense the movement of the planet?

8:36 Are there aspects of your conditioning that actually support your practice?

19:15 How do you care for yourself while also meeting the demands of others?

21:30 When I face an obstacle, should I focus on solving it directly, or shift to doing something different?

25:31 How do you recognize when your practice has weakened?

27:46 What is the current situation with COVID-19 in the U.S.?

32:46 Do you allow your practice to guide how you navigate your feelings?

36:55 While walking in Bosnia, were you aware you might be crossing a minefield?

46:18 Did your experience of living on the street help prepare you for being on pilgrimage?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

Questions/Time Stamps:

1:16 How has your relationship to being on time been, for example before the practice and then coming into the practice
***
6:04 Do you remember the first retreat that you facilitated and if so, how did it go?
***
8:30 If I have developed certain reactions to similar situations over my lifetime, do you think that this is a trap like conditioning patterns? And that I should behave freshly in every moment?
***
11:42 Do I let go of fear or does fear let go of me?
***
13:27 Can you say more about "moral Injury" such as examples or how a person knows that they have one?
***
16:22 Would you be willing to share a personal experience about recognizing fear and how your relationship to fear served you
***
19:37 Is there something that you especially like to do to recovery yourself or get back your strength after changing time (jet lag)?
***
24:51 Do you beat yourself up when you make a mistake or how has your process been?
***
27:15 After you finish an event or a lot of traveling do you take a specific amount of time to reflect or let it sink in?
***
32:57 How would you finish the sentence, "At the end of my life…?"
***
39:28 Do you think of what you might leave behind for your son after death?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand more deeply the trappings of a deluded mind.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations: 

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

 

Questions in this episode:   (1:00) Would your share your current feelings of vulnerability with us? *** (6:08) Is it egoistic to want to have children? *** (10:20) From your experience is it easier to reflect on one's suffering and conditioning by living alone or in relationships or with a family? *** (13:10) At the car wash, where the car is pulled through I have terrible feelings of anxiousness. Do you think it is useful to go through the car wash more often to address this feeling? *** (15:45) You stated that deep listening and mindful speech practice is not a therapy group. What is a therapy group then? *** (17:35) Going back to the car wash, when imagining the real risk, I still have great doubt about the possibility that I will be ok.  *** (20:00) When you spoke with the former Israeli soldiers and the police wellness group, was this not dharma talks?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand the trappings of a deluded mind more deeply.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&response session with a German-speaking audience.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/   If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org   Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations: •Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021) •AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003) https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html   Questions in this episode: 1:28 There is a saying, "People will not remember what you said but how they felt when you said it." Do you consider this to be true?   2:28 If you experience a new and challenging situation that you feel insecure about, how do you deal with it?   4:06 I often feel as if I am swimming against the current or that I am different than a big percentage of society. And ask myself if I am doing something wrong? Is it also possible to pay too much attention to one's self?   8:35 If you have had any experience sabotaging yourself, would you talk about that?   16:18 Death is a big cause of my suffering. It seems my relation to it is not changing. Is there anything I can do about it?   18:22 You often emphasize the importance of paying attention to details. Is it possible to pay too much attention to detail? And if so, how do I know when I am doing that?   20:18: Where does the practice for the dead (the ritual and recitation done for 49 days after death) come from?   22:15 How do you deal with feelings of senselessness?    26:42 I have more questions regarding life than responses or solutions. How is that for you?   30:50 Why is there the tendency to make things more complicated?   34:37 Is there a new photograph on the altar? And would you be willing to share what it is?

These are topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand the trappings of a deluded mind more deeply.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&response session.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations: 

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

Questions and Time Stamps: 1:07 What has become clear to you since beginning your current retreat, or pilgrimage (commitments in Europe), rather? -- 2:12 I am wondering if we can ever free ourselves from the fear of dying? And what does it require? -- 6:43 Can you speak to how we are not different than the shooter in Uvalde (Texas school shooter)? -- 9:13 Do you fear anything? -- 10:13 How can I realize the difference between being organized and being controlling? -- 11:30 Is there something besides breath awareness, people, animals, places, things that anchor you in your life?   -- 14:07 Is there a connection between attachment and addiction?  -- 14:52 Do you feel it is worthwhile to travel to Asia to see sacred Buddhist sites? -- 21:40 Is there a "healthy" way to detach or attach? -- 24:45 Can you talk about intimacy with another sentient being, like a pet (companion animal)? -- 26:50 You mention the truth that exists beyond the intellect. In your view can one only get there by having a container of an ancient spiritual tradition? -- 28:42 If any breath could be the last one, is there anything I can do about it? -- 29:50 How has your practice changed over the years, in your opinion?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand the trappings of a deluded mind more deeply.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&response session with a German-speaking audience.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

TIME STAMPS   0:52: What to do when all the people around me tell me I speak too softly but a Zen teacher tells me that I need to speak softer and more gently?   02:15 You mention you trust science. How do you deal with science that is killing living beings to reach conclusions?   07:48 How can I deal with the feeling of loneliness that drives me to cling or hang on to the ones I love. How can I surrender to the reality of my loneliness without suffering?     11:48 How can practice inform me about anything other than practice if all I do is focus on the essential point?   16:37 Amnesty International has criticized the Ukraine for strategically using human beings in its warfare. Is it ok to criticize the Ukraine?   19:07 How do I deal emotionally with the fact that in war there are not good people (right side, wrong side)?   21:40 Do you sometimes feel lazy, and if so, how do you deal with the sensation of laziness?   23:10 When you speak of awakening and the essential point, you create a sense of security for me. Is this sense of security something you always had or was there a certain point when it started?   27:30 What is the transfer from teacher to student? What is transferred and how does it work?   30:30 At the retreat you just completed, there was a meditation teacher. What did they offer?   32:38 How has the vow "creations are numberless, I vow to free them," unfolded for you?   36:55 Do you sometimes have a hard time to focus, and if you do, what do you do with that?   41:55 Claude AnShin adds a more appropriate response to the question regarding science and doing harm.

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand the trappings of a deluded mind more deeply.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&response session with a German-speaking audience.

Time stamps: Q: 01:30   What is the meaning of incense offering and what are you reciting while doing it?   Q: 06:00   As you follow instructions, do you also follow your intuition?   Q: 11:00  During the morning practice, what is the significance of sitting 180 degrees opposite of the first sitting period?   Q: 17:45  Could you speak on the topic of faith in the zen tradition?   Q: 23:00  Do you have any guidance when facing a complicated and overwhelming project?   Q: 30:00  To KenShin, do you have opportunities to participate in the practice of mindful speech and deep listening?   Q: 33:30  Do we always have a choice or a choice at all?   Q: 35:00  How to not mess things up when I'm really tired?   Q: 38:20  Do you think if I focus on my fears, they come true?    Q: 40:50  Are ethical and moral principles individual or shared?    For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

- Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing, 2021)

- AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand the trappings of a deluded mind more deeply.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&response session with a German-speaking audience.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

• Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice
• AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

(1:05) Q: Other teachers do "Dharma talks". What is your understanding of this and how do you work differently with the topic, such as in the Questions and Responses?

2:03 Q: Do you perceive pressure and how do you deal with it?   8:15 Q: Is my wish to want to feel connected also a conditioned expectation of what the world should be and another disguise for my suffering?   10:44 Q: How do you relate to what is your intuition today in contrast to before your Buddhist practice?   13:09 Q: Is vulnerability needed to be human in its full range?   16:31 Q: How was your trip to Miami and the people you met there?   21:46 Q: What do you think of the current situation in Europe, specifically how Russia may take the war to other countries?   24:05 Q: Is there something in yourself where you feel connected to your younger self, emotionally or with feelings from then?   27:53 Q: Do you put a lot of stock in first impressions?   29:00 Q: How come you and KenShin are separated by your screens?   31:50 Q How can you tell the difference between watching things unfold versus the stories we tell ourselves that confirm our bias?

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand the trappings of a deluded mind more deeply.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&response session with a German-speaking audience.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

• Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice
• AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

Q: I heard someone talk recently about having contact to a younger version of themselves with in themselves. Do you have anything like this? (Min 1)

Q: Do you put a lot of stock in first impressions? (Min 5)

Q:  How can you tell the difference between first impressions and some form of narrative based on our conditioning? (Min 10)

Q: If there is something I regret from the past, is it ok to let it go or should I turn back and apologize?

Q: What is your current vulnerability?  (Min 15)

Q: Is it egotistic to want to have children? (Min 20)

Q: In your experience is it easier to confront one's own suffering in solitude or in relationship? (Min 25)

Q: Do you think it is useful to expose myself to that which I am afraid of? (29mins) 

Q: You say that Q &R sessions are not a therapy group. What is the difference? (31 mins)

The following questions are what Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on in this episode. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand the trappings of a deluded mind more deeply.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&response session with a German-speaking audience.

Q1: (1 min 15 sec) Why don't you give Dharma talks?

Q2:(2min 15 sec) Do you perceive pressure and if so how do you deal with it?

Q3: (9 min) Is my wish to be connected part of my conditioning? And if so is that also part of my suffering?

Q4: (min 11) How do you relate to your intuition today?

Q5: (min 13) Is vulnerability needed to be human in its full range?

Q6: (min 17) How was your trip to Miami? 

Q7: (min 22) What is your current view on the situation in Europe (war in the Ukraine)? Do you think Russia will take the war to other countries?

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

• Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice
• AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

This is a topic that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on with a group of university students. 

This episode was recorded during a zoom class.

Claude AnShin Thomas: What you all do, what  living a Buddhist life is like, why you have chosen such a life?

Question #1: How do I live in the present moment when I know that I will die, and I don't know when? (Min 21)

Question #2: what are your thoughts on using meditation practice 2 reduce anxiety? (Min 23)

Question #3: How does being a Buddhist impact your daily life and decision making? (Min 27)

Question #4: How do you find acceptance around somebody dying before their time or dying young? (Min 33)

Question #5: What are your thoughts on the current situation of the world right now and the war that is going on?

Question #6: What is the ultimate peace? (Min 41)

Question #7: Why is meditation so difficult sometimes, even when you want to meditate? (Min 43)

Question #8: If you could expand your community into different places in the world where would you like to see it expand? (Min 46)

Question #9: What can an atheist or someone with no belief in a God learn from Buddhist practices? (Min 48)

Question #10: How important is vegetarianism and veganism to Buddhist practice? (Min 51)

Question #11: When you started on this path did you have a goal, and did you achieve that goal? (Min 55)

Question #12: Did you see a difference before and after the pandemic for why people sought out your help and guidance for retreats and teachings? (Min 56)

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

• Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice
• AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org.

Book recommendations:

-       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021, also as audiobook)

-       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003, also as audiobook)

-       On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

https://www.zaltho.org/zen-books-by-zen-monk-claude-anshin-thomas/

To support, donate.

If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.

Questions and Time Stamps:

01:14 – How has your spiritual practice affected how you relate to your body?

06:25 – Would you share a time when you intentionally practiced self-denial?

09:13 – How did you deal with the violence you experienced as a child?

11:34 – What's your experience with what people call "wisdom"?

11:53 – How do you define delusion?

12:12 – Is action the absolute realm, and ideas the relative realm?

16:50 – What's the purpose of the precept of chastity?

18:37 – What do the scrolls behind you say?

19:15 – Have you ever had an experience where the world told you the opposite of what you believed or saw?

21:13 – If action and observation are so different, what's the value in just observing?

24:03 – Why do the icons on the altar have different hairstyles and robes?

25:19 – When you act spontaneously, are you ever afraid of making a mistake?

28:01 – Would you talk about building the zendo?

33:19 – Do you know when the drum was added to the Kan Ro Man?

34:29 – Has the way you do the Buddhist services changed over the years?

Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - speaks at the First Unitarian Church of Dallas on the topic of war never being a solution and how to live the peace we want to see in the word.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&response session with a German-speaking audience.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

• Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice
• AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

This talk was held in January 2022 online for a group of veterans who are working on the aspect of moral injury. Claude AnShin Thomas shares his experience for the first 30 minutes as it relates to his military service and his conditioning leading up to the Vietnam War. He also talks about how he found his way to Buddhist practice among several other topics.

Question and response starts at 30 minutes:

Question 1: How did you come to the practice of Buddhism? (min 33)
Question 2: Do you do any yoga? (min 43)

Question 3: How do you train individuals in breathing meditation who can get potentially triggered by it such as snipers? (min 48)

Question 4: I retired in 2018, and it feels like since then my post-traumatic stress has gotten worse. Have you heard experiences like this? Is this common? (min 53)

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

• Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice
• AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

Q: If all my perceptions are influenced my cultural circumstances, how can I be sure to find absolute truth? How to know, if what I find is not yet just another cultural conditioning?

Q: How did your ordination go? (3 min 45 sec)

Q: Why did you get ordained in Auschwitz? (14 mins)

Q: When is the right time to ask a question? (18 min 55 sec)

Q: What is that new pin you are wearing on your robe? (28 mins)

These are questions and topics that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. He reminds the listener of how to stay awake to life and how to understand the trappings of a deluded mind more deeply.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&response session with a German-speaking audience.

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

• Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice
• AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html

These are questions about the current war in the Ukraine that Claude AnShin Thomas - fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition - reflects on. Having been a soldier in war, Claude AnShin Thomas speaks with an authentic and legitimate voice.

This episode was recorded during a zoom questions&response session with a German-speaking audience.

Questions:

(1:47)

How does the Zaltho Zen community work with the current situation of war in the Ukraine?

(12:30)
Living in Hungaria there is a chance that war arrives here. What should we do when it happens?

(18:18)
What feelings come up for you when you see the images from the war in the Ukraine?

(25:16)
What advise would you give president Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian government and people?

For more interesting information: https://zaltho.org/

If you want to ask a question: info@zaltho.org

Want to read up on this topic? Book recommendations:

• Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice 
• AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

https://zaltho.org/en/media/books.html