Summary: Episode Description: In this talk, Sensei Sokaku Kathie Fischer discusses The Platform Sutra, a foundational teaching in Zen by Hui-Neng. The Sutra provides an account of the early life of Hui-Neng, as well as his teachings after becoming the 6th Patriarch. Kathie also explores some of the sociopolitical influences which would have influenced the life of Hui-Neng. These include the probable political exile of his father and his illiterate upbringing. The Sutra is thought to represent the first teaching on “sudden awakening,” or the southern school. Sensei Kathie suggests that “sudden” indicates that awakening has immediacy, we simply need to fully inhabit ourselves and be present for each moment.<br> <br>
