December Sesshin – Rohatsu

Rohatsu: The sesshin that marks the calendar

Rohatsu—the week commemorating Buddha's awakening—is the traditional anchor for intensive practice in Zen centers. At Great Vow, this December sesshin is the year's capstone: a full week of residential sitting that brings together the accumulated momentum of a year's practice. If you've been sitting regularly at the monastery, this is the sesshin that consolidates what you've learned.

The schedule

This is rigorous. Early morning zazen (sitting meditation), work practice that keeps the monastery running, teisho (formal teaching talks), and oryoki (formal eating practice where you eat in silence in the meditation hall). Participants sit late into the night and rise early—a compressed, intense rhythm designed to deepen concentration and presence. There's no casual time; the entire week holds the container of silence and focused practice.

What to expect

• Residential stay: you live at the monastery for the week
• Noble silence: no talking unless required by the schedule
• Full participation in center life: meals, work, sittings, and ceremonies
• Connection to a specific liturgical calendar—this sesshin is timed, not arbitrary

The low fee ($75 for a week of room, meals, and teaching) reflects the center's dana-based approach; many sesshin participants also contribute additional support.