Awakening Streams: The One River Zen Podcast

The Gateway of Mu | Mumonkan 1

Episode Summary

In this episode, Sensei Michael Brunner of One River Zen explores the foundational teaching of Joshu’s “Mu,” the first case of the Mumonkan (Gateless Gate). Through this profound koan, Sensei Michael dives into what it means to move beyond concepts, fears, and judgments, inviting us to experience life with boundless clarity and freedom. You’ll hear about how we fence ourselves in with labels and caution signs, how Mu clears those barriers, and how this practice helps us embody wisdom and compassion in each moment. Whether you’re new to Zen or a seasoned practitioner, this talk offers insight into how Zen practice transforms our experience of life and invites us to meet it fully. This teisho was recorded live at One River Zen, where we cultivate mindfulness, clarity, and connection in community.

Episode Notes

In this episode, Sensei Michael Brunner of One River Zen takes us into the heart of Zen practice with the first case of the Mumonkan (Gateless Gate), Joshu’s “Mu.” This foundational koan isn’t just a barrier to be overcome—it’s an invitation to go beyond concepts, labels, and fears to discover the boundless clarity and freedom that lies at the core of our lives.

Sensei Michael shares how we fence ourselves in with judgments, create barriers with our thoughts, and how “Mu” clears the way for us to reconnect with the wonder and curiosity we were born with. Through vivid examples, he illustrates how working with this koan can help us embody wisdom and compassion, allowing us to meet life’s challenges with courage and presence.

Whether you’re new to Zen or deep in your practice, this teisho offers an inspiring perspective on how to live fully and freely through the practice of Mu.

Key Themes Addressed:

• The significance of Joshu’s “Mu” and its place in Zen training.
• How we create and reinforce barriers with thoughts, fears, and labels.
• Moving beyond concepts to experience true clarity and freedom.
• The balance between surrender and active engagement in Zen practice.
• How the practice of Mu transforms our relationship with suffering and invites us to respond with wisdom and compassion.

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Resources Mentioned:

• Mumonkan (Gateless Gate)
• Joshu’s “Mu” (Case 1)

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