Understanding Sempai and Kohai and why its a special relationship

The training of  practitioners is what would be expected for a social institution modeled, like almost all others in Japan from the family to the nation, on the patri lineal kin group and descended from feudal Japan. A social hierarchy extends from the Grand Master Rikyu, other ancestors, the current Grand Master and his wife, his son who is the heir next in line and his family, other biological family members, the highest ranking teachers (gyotei), mizuya sensei (those in day-and-night service and training to become gyotei), other teachers in rank by seniority, and students likewise ranked. Sempai/kohai or senior/junior relationships are an integral part of the structure. After just one day, one becomes sempai to others, and one remains kohai to others for life. Sempai are responsible to their sempai in turn for their kohai. Obedience without argument or questioning and correction, accepted without excuses, are expected. The most proper response seems to be ‘hai!’ ("yes"). Ideally relationships are characterized by respect for the teacher or sempai and benevolence and guidance for the student or kohai. Many aisatsu (formal greetings, bows, waiting on one’s knees and knuckles) imply the proper respect.

Training tends to be in the tradition of rigorous Zen discipline, with no complaints about strenuous hours on ones knees nor about preparations (toban) like sawing charcoal, wiping tatami mats on hands and knees, and cleaning the garden or toilets. These are privileges of service and opportunities for spiritual development, especially death to and transcendence of the self.

Meditation traditions the courtesy and Koan's used in Zen Meditation are listed her for Meditation , they are provided by Master Hughes Roshi of the National Meditation center for World Peace , Danoshen Ryu Buddhist temple. It does not matter if you are wanting to study meditation for health reasons or as a "Way of Life" you will find that knowing traditional courtesy and methods will greatly add to your experiences.

Courtesy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.Do not touch teachers monks or priests.

 

 Be polite always ask in question form even if you disagree or don't understand, the concept of Buddhism is don't offend.

If someone bows to you return the bow it is the equivalent of a handshake actually more respectful.

2. Many classes are held in street clothes but wearing revealing clothes is  not appropriate.

3. If you attend ceremonial meetings, meditation clothes are the type that should be worn, the type and style should be identified by your instructor.

4. Hats should not be worn in side the building only in some middle east meditations are hats worn.

5. Smoking and Alcohol are not allowed.

6. Never step on a ritual mat with shoes.

7. Take off your shoes before entering the temple or dojo except were indicated by the teacher.

8. Do Not speak during meditation This is a personal time .

9. Always use two hands when giving something to your teacher. But never expect him to open the gift in front of you.

10. Perform rituals in a dignified manner.

11. Do not throw any thing down on the grounds.

12. Always remember teachings that you receive are gifts any thing you give should be given in the same light.

13. last but not least follow Zen tradition don't use a teachers first name. use Master and last name or if a teacher use last name and Sensei ( Hanson sensei)

 

Understanding enlightenment is too complex to address her but you should understand the terms satarie and Kensho this refer between  differences in enlightenment between a teacher and a student.