10 Facts About Philip Kapleau

Philip Kapleau was an American Zen Buddhist teacher.

Philip Kapleau established Rochester Zen Center, which grew to become one of the most influential Zen communities in the West.

Philip Kapleau briefly studied law and later became an accomplished court reporter.

Philip Kapleau trained initially with Soen Nakagawa, then rigorously with Daiun Harada at the temple Hosshin-ji.

Philip Kapleau introduced many modifications to the Japanese Zen tradition, such as chanting the Heart Sutra in the local language.

Philip Kapleau often emphasized that Zen Buddhism adapted so readily to new cultures because it was not dependent upon a dogmatic external form.

Philip Kapleau told me I could do that until he returned to the United States the following year, at which time he would have a public ceremony for me if everything went all right in the meantime.

Philip Kapleau argued that Buddhism enjoins vegetarianism on the principle of nonharmfulness.

Philip Kapleau appointed several successors, some of whom have subsequently appointed successors or authorized teachers:.

Two students ended their formal affiliation with Philip Kapleau, establishing independent teaching-careers:.