The Diamond Sutra, (Vajracchedika – diamond cutter) Prajna Paramita Sutra, is one of the oldest documents of the Perfection of Wisdom teachings. The central theme is sunyata, the doctrine of emptiness, and is said to, “cut like a blade through worldly illusion.” Originally written in Sanskrit in the first or second century CE, it was translated to Chinese in 401CE, and became foundational for all Zen Buddhist schools in China, Korea and Japan.

Sokaku Kathie Fischer is a long time Zen practitioner and teacher. She began her practice in Berkeley California and spent many years at Tassajara Zen Mountain Center and Green Gulch Farm. A science enthusiast, Kathie taught middle school science for more than 20 years, is an avid diver, and loves to watch the shifting sky. She has become a regular guest teacher at Upaya Zen Center. Kathie’s passion for stories as a teaching vehicle make Zen practice accessible, warm and engaging. She enjoys seeing students gain a sense of belonging to a very old conversation, continuous lineage and lively practice for the modern world.