Shunryu Suzuki

Date of Birth: May 18, 1904

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: December 4, 1971

Biography

Shunryu Suzuki was a highly respected Japanese Zen monk and teacher who played a crucial role in the introduction and popularization of Zen Buddhism in the United States. Born in Japan, Suzuki was ordained as a Zen priest at a young age and trained under several esteemed masters. In 1959, he moved to San Francisco, where he founded the San Francisco Zen Center. Suzuki’s teachings emphasized the practice of “beginner’s mind,” an attitude of openness and eagerness, and he was known for his ability to communicate complex Zen concepts in a simple, accessible manner. His seminal work, “Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind,” remains a cornerstone in the study of Zen Buddhism. Suzuki’s efforts have had a lasting impact on Western understanding and practice of Zen.

5 Interesting Facts about Shunryu Suzuki

1. Shunryu Suzuki was instrumental in establishing the first Zen monastery outside of Asia, the Tassajara Zen Mountain Center in California.

2. Suzuki’s book “Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind” is considered one of the most influential books on Zen Buddhism in the West.

3. He was known for his gentle, approachable teaching style and his ability to make Zen principles accessible to Western students.

4. Suzuki was a contemporary and friend of other influential Zen teachers such as D.T. Suzuki and Taizan Maezumi.

5. He was the founder of the San Francisco Zen Center, which has grown into one of the largest and most influential Zen organizations in the United States.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Shunryu Suzuki

1. “In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s mind there are few.”

2. “The most important point is to accept yourself and stand on your two feet.”

3. “Each of you is perfect the way you are … and you can use a little improvement.”

4. “When you do something, you should burn yourself up completely, like a good bonfire, leaving no trace of yourself.”

5. “The true purpose of Zen is to see things as they are, to observe things as they are, and to let everything go as it goes.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Shunryu Suzuki, as a Zen monk, did not accumulate personal wealth. His focus was on spiritual teachings and community rather than financial gain. Therefore, he did not achieve a high net worth in monetary terms.

Children

Shunryu Suzuki had four children: two sons, Hoitsu Suzuki and Keido Suzuki, and two daughters, Yasuko and Harumi. His son, Hoitsu Suzuki, succeeded him as the abbot of Rinso-in Temple in Japan.