About Melissa Myozen Blacker

Melissa Myozen Blacker, Roshi is the Abbot of Boundless Way Zen and has a private practice in contemplative counseling. She is co-editor of The Book of Mu: Essential Writings on Zen’s Most Important Koan. She will be teaching at the annual Lion's Roar retreat, "Facing Life's Challenges" from October 19-21, 2018.

Who Am I?

by Melissa Myozen Blacker| February 18, 2021

Melissa Myozen Blacker teaches Koan practice of asking again and again, “Who am I?” Every time an answer arises set it aside. Eventually, answers stops coming, replaced by a feeling of profound wonder.

The Wonder & Mystery of Zen Koan Practice

by Melissa Myozen Blacker| November 16, 2020

Each Friday, we share three topical longreads in our Weekend Reader newsletter. This week, Melissa Myozen Blacker, Roshi explores Zen koan practice.

Everything Is Buddhanature

by Melissa Myozen Blacker| November 28, 2018

Original sin vs. original goodness: Mahayana Buddhism offers a more hopeful view of human nature. Zen teacher Melissa Myozen Blacker reveals how nondual practice frees us from our temporary obscurations and reveals our true, awakened nature.

A Woman of Zen

by Melissa Myozen Blacker| September 24, 2018

Melissa Myozen Blacker recounts how she, as a practitioner and a teacher, has navigated a male-dominated tradition.

Meeting Ourselves as We Are

by Melissa Myozen Blacker| September 19, 2018

Melissa Myozen Blacker, Roshi on how to find space and relief when painful emotions are present.

Koans: One with the Question

by Melissa Myozen Blacker| September 7, 2018

The enlightenment stories of the ancient masters are confounding to conventional mind. Their truth, says Melissa Myozen Blacker, is revealed only when our whole being becomes the koan.