Our Teacher

Rev. Ōshin Jennings
応心 歌渡

Ōshin began No Barriers Zen (NBZ) the way many sanghas begin — by setting out a few cushions. In 2015 he arranged seats for friends so people who had been left out of practice could sit zazen together. Those simple gatherings grew into NBZ, an accessible Soto Zen sangha that meets in Baltimore, around the U.S., and online.

Ōshin has walked this path for several decades. He ordained as a monk in 2009 and received Dharma transmission from Shōhō Michael Newhall in 2022. He is thought to be the first Deaf Buddhist monk, and he has since worked steadily to correct the exclusions that kept Deaf and disabled people from practice. As a Deaf and disabled practitioner, he brings his lived experience into his work, making Buddhist teachings and meditation accessible to every body.

Ōshin is also an artist and a psychotherapist. Together with his community he is translating core sutras into American Sign Language. He offers ceremonies, spiritual direction, and workshops, and is currently accepting new students. For teaching dates, resources, and contact, visit NoBarriersZen.org.