Taisen Deshimaru

Date of Birth: November 29, 1914

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: April 30, 1982

Biography

Taisen Deshimaru (1914–1982) was a prominent Japanese Sōtō Zen Buddhist teacher who played an instrumental role in spreading Zen Buddhism to the West, particularly in Europe. Born in the Saga Prefecture of Japan, Deshimaru initially pursued a career in business before committing himself fully to Zen practice. He became a disciple of Kodo Sawaki, a renowned Zen master, and received Dharma transmission from him. In 1967, Deshimaru moved to France, where he founded the Association Zen Internationale and numerous dojos, or Zen practice centers, across Europe. His teachings emphasized the practice of zazen (seated meditation) as the foundation of Zen practice and daily life. Deshimaru authored several influential books on Zen Buddhism, including “The Zen Way to the Martial Arts” and “Questions to a Zen Master.” Deshimaru’s efforts significantly contributed to the understanding and practice of Zen in the Western world, and his legacy continues through the teachings of his many students and the institutions he established.

5 Interesting Facts about Taisen Deshimaru

1. Taisen Deshimaru was ordained as a monk at the age of 30.

2. He established the first Zen dojo in Paris in 1967.

3. Deshimaru received Dharma transmission from his master, Kodo Sawaki, in 1965.

4. He founded the Association Zen Internationale (AZI) to promote Zen practice in Europe.

5. Deshimaru’s book “The Zen Way to the Martial Arts” explores the connection between Zen and martial arts practices.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Taisen Deshimaru

1. “Zen is not some kind of excitement, but concentration on our usual everyday routine.”

2. “To practice Zen is to eliminate the gap between the practice and everyday life.”

3. “The practice of Zen means just to be seated, not to think, not to reflect, not to cultivate any intention.”

4. “True Zen means to touch the universe and become one with it. It means to return to our true nature.”

5. “In Zen, actions speak louder than words.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Taisen Deshimaru did not achieve significant personal wealth; his contributions were primarily spiritual and educational rather than financial.

Children

There is no public information available about Taisen Deshimaru having any biological children. His legacy is carried on through his numerous disciples and the institutions he founded.