Embodied Awakening of Silent Illumination

This retreat takes its theme directly from Hongzhi Zhengjue, an 11th-century Chan master whose writing on silent illumination (mozhao) remains influential in contemporary Zen and Chan practice. Silent illumination points to a way of sitting in which awareness itself becomes the meditation—not achieving a particular state, but resting in the luminous quality of mind that's already present.

The retreat weaves together formal sitting and walking meditation with embodied practice: moving meditation grounds the teaching in the body, while caretaking work and silent meals extend awareness into daily activity. Liturgy and chanting anchor the schedule in the center's tradition.

Zen Mountain Monastery has not yet published the full daily schedule, the lead teacher for this retreat, or details about lodging and meals. Contact the center directly for specifics on what a day looks like, who will be teaching, and what's included in the $400 fee.