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Jiho Kongo has an extensive and diverse
background in Rinzai Buddhism. Born the eldest son of
a Rinzai Zen family, Jiho inherited the responsibility
of a monastic life. His first period of monastic practice
after the completion of university was at Japan's strictest
and most difficult monastery, Shogenji, in Gifu Prefecture.
Since then he has practiced at Kyoto's Myoshinji and
Empukuki, Bairinji, in Fukuoka Prefecture, and Manjuji
in Oita. Traveling to different monasteries has allowed
Jiho to meet many Zen masters. In doing so he has broadened
his knowledge of and perspective on Buddhism.
Jiho has also traveled abroad with the hope of learning
about other ways of life and cultures, in turn passing
on his experience as a Buddhist. He taught Zen in Victoria,
Canada where he lived for two years. He has also visited
Australia, England, China, Taiwan, India and Tibet.
Jiho's unique experience in both Japan and abroad,
has allowed him to develop a deep humility from which
he passes on his teachings. His dedication to spiritual
evolution is communicated by his commitment to not only
teach, but also to learn from his students. |
