Shodo Harada Roshi, born in 1940 in Japan, is a renowned Zen teacher who has dedicated his life to the practice and teaching of Zen Buddhism. He is the abbot of Sogenji Temple in Okayama, Japan and the founder of One Drop Zendo in the United States. So, how did Shodo Harada Roshi become a Zen teacher?

Shodo Harada Roshi's journey towards becoming a Zen teacher began at a young age. He was raised in a family with a strong spiritual background, with his father being a devout Buddhist and his mother a devout Christian. This upbringing instilled in him a deep curiosity and interest in spiritual practices.

At the age of 14, Shodo Harada Roshi entered a Zen temple as an apprentice monk. He was deeply drawn to the rigorous and disciplined lifestyle of Zen monasticism and devoted himself to the practice of meditation and other Zen teachings. He spent the next ten years training and studying under the guidance of his teacher, Yamada Mumon Roshi.

In 1967, at the age of 27, Shodo Harada Roshi received Dharma transmission from his teacher, making him a fully ordained Zen teacher. He then spent the next few years traveling and teaching in various Zen centers in Japan and the United States.

In 1971, Shodo Harada Roshi was sent to the United States by his teacher to establish a Zen center in Hawaii. This marked the beginning of his international teaching career. He later returned to Japan and became the abbot of Sogenji Temple in Okayama.

Over the years, Shodo Harada Roshi's teachings and presence have attracted many students from different parts of the world. He is known for his compassionate and direct teaching style, and his ability to guide students towards a deeper understanding of Zen practice.

In addition to teaching, Shodo Harada Roshi is also a prolific writer and has authored several books on Zen Buddhism. He continues to travel and teach at various Zen centers around the world, spreading the teachings of Zen and helping others on their spiritual journey.

In conclusion, Shodo Harada Roshi's journey towards becoming a Zen teacher was a result of his deep dedication and commitment to the practice of Zen Buddhism. His years of training and study, coupled with his natural talent for teaching, have made him one of the most respected and influential Zen teachers of our time.