Shakyo – Tracing the Sutras 写経
Shakyo meditative and spiritual practice
The practice of Shakyo 写経 is a meditative and heartful practice offered in many temples in Japan. It often starts with tea, chanting and a bow before beginning to slowly trace the original text of a chosen Buddhist Sutra. Blair (Zen name Shogen) has practiced over the years at several zen and other temples in Japan, and enjoys sharing the soothing and magical practice through groups and one to one, both online on Zoom and physical.
Why copy the Sutras?
We trace the calligraphy of several Sutras such as the inspiring Heart Sutra 般若心経, Hannya Shingyo, or the Boundless Life Ten Line Kannon Sutra, 延命十句観音経 Enmei Jukku Kannon Gyo, which is short but poetic, full of energy and beautifully written. This sutra has many interpretations, a popular one is that it helps wellbeing in times of sickness or difficulty, and it helps us open our awareness.
We copy the translation of the Heart Sutra by the famous monk Genjo / Xuanzang c 602 – 664, which was popularised in the Saiyuuki / Monkey Magic series, itself based on the fictionalised Chinese novel Journey to the West. We work in the shakyo style of calligraphy developed in China.
People trace this with care to mindfully copy each character, and often people find the experience is peaceful, and nourishes wellbeing. It doesn’t matter whether your writing is good, and you don’t need to have faith in Buddhism or knowledge of Japanese at all. Sutras can be copied in Japanese or English. For many people Shakyo can also be a dedication to their ancestors. And for monks it is a regular part of their temple activity.
This is a quiet practice using body and mind, flourished around the 7th century Tang Dynasty and before, where you grind your own ink and use a small calligraphy brush (or brushpen) and Japanese paper. Blair was instructed in Soto zen and other temples in Japan taught by monks and calligraphy masters, connecting with wider zen practice.
No previous experience is needed at all. You don’t need to have calligraphy materials, and we email you about what you can use in advance of a group or session.
If you would like to find out more about previous Shakyo events please go to the Drawing and Painting Studio Shakyo pages.
Testimonial
“Nice meditative, focused concentration, I’d very much recommend this course, it’s great. The materials are lovely & sensory”
Gemma
Shakyo Sasakawa event, Glasgow
Join our online or physical Shakyo groups
We hold regular Shakyo events, such as our online group, for tickets and more info please have a look at our Events and Art groups page.
About Blair
Blair Thomson is a skilled and versatile artist who has exhibited widely (from U.K. to U.S. to Japan) and tutored many individuals and groups since graduation in 2002. At Glasgow School of Art he was traditionally trained in drawing and painting, before going on to study various approaches with other teachers. He has curated exhibitions and been part of public exhibition selection, so he has a wealth of experience to tap into.
Moreover Blair is a kind listener and always enjoys helping others with their artwork. You will feel safe to confide in him about your interests and any worries or uncertainty you have. Any questions you have or guidance you need, Blair will help you.
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