Taisen Deshimaru was a Japanese Zen master who played a pivotal role in bringing Zen to Europe. His legacy in the Zen community is one of great significance and impact.

First and foremost, Deshimaru's contribution to spreading Zen in Europe cannot be overstated. He arrived in France in 1967, at a time when Zen was virtually unknown in the Western world. Through his teachings and practice, he introduced thousands of people to Zen and its principles. He established numerous Zen centers and temples across Europe, including in France, Germany, and Spain. His efforts were instrumental in popularizing Zen and making it accessible to a wider audience.

Deshimaru's teachings were rooted in traditional Zen principles, but he also adapted them to suit the Western mind. He emphasized the importance of zazen (meditation) and the practice of mindfulness in daily life. He also stressed the importance of living in the present moment and cultivating a deeper understanding of the self. His teachings resonated with many Westerners, who were seeking a way to find inner peace and meaning in their fast-paced lives.

One of Deshimaru's most significant contributions to the Zen community was his emphasis on the importance of social engagement. He believed that Zen practice should not be limited to the meditation cushion but should also extend to one's actions in the world. He encouraged his students to be socially responsible and to use their practice to benefit society. This emphasis on social engagement has had a lasting impact on the Zen community, with many centers and practitioners now actively involved in various social and environmental causes.

Deshimaru's legacy also includes the establishment of the Association Zen Internationale (AZI), an organization that continues to promote and preserve traditional Zen teachings in Europe. The AZI also serves as a network for Zen centers and practitioners, providing support and guidance for those interested in Zen practice. This organization has played a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and authenticity of Zen teachings in Europe.

In addition to his teachings and organizational efforts, Deshimaru's legacy is also evident in the numerous books and writings he left behind. His works, including "The Zen Way to the Martial Arts" and "Questions to a Zen Master," have been translated into multiple languages and continue to inspire and guide Zen practitioners around the world.

In conclusion, Taisen Deshimaru's legacy in the Zen community is one of great significance and influence. His efforts in bringing Zen to Europe, his teachings, and his emphasis on social engagement have had a lasting impact on the Zen community and continue to inspire and guide practitioners today. He will always be remembered as a pioneer and a great master who helped bridge the gap between East and West through the practice of Zen.