Shodo Harada Roshi is a renowned Zen teacher who has dedicated his life to the practice and teachings of Zen Buddhism. His philosophy and approach to Zen can be summarized in three key principles: zazen (sitting meditation), koans (paradoxical questions or statements), and daily life practice.

Zazen, or sitting meditation, is the foundation of Zen practice. According to Roshi, the purpose of zazen is to quiet the mind and cultivate a state of non-dual awareness. This is achieved by focusing on the breath and observing thoughts without judgment or attachment. Through regular zazen practice, one can develop a deep sense of inner peace and clarity.

In addition to zazen, Roshi emphasizes the importance of koans in Zen practice. Koans are paradoxical questions or statements that are meant to challenge the rational mind and lead to a direct experience of truth. Roshi believes that koans are a powerful tool for breaking through the barriers of conceptual thinking and accessing deeper levels of awareness.

The third aspect of Roshi's philosophy and practice of Zen is daily life practice. This means bringing the principles of zazen and koans into every aspect of one's daily life. Roshi encourages his students to approach even the most mundane tasks with mindfulness and awareness. By doing so, one can cultivate a state of constant presence and deepen their understanding of the interconnectedness of all things.

Roshi also emphasizes the importance of working with a teacher in Zen practice. He believes that having a teacher-student relationship is essential for deepening one's understanding and progress on the path of Zen. Roshi himself has studied under several Zen masters and has been teaching for over 40 years, guiding countless students on their own spiritual journeys.

In addition to these key principles, Roshi also emphasizes the importance of compassion and service in Zen practice. He believes that true awakening is not just about personal enlightenment, but also about using that awareness to benefit others and contribute to the greater good.

Overall, Shodo Harada Roshi's philosophy and practice of Zen is centered around the cultivation of inner peace, non-dual awareness, and compassionate action. Through zazen, koans, and daily life practice, he guides his students towards a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.