Mahayana · Chan / Zen · Chinese tradition

Who we are

The Zen Buddhist Order of Bulgaria is a small Sofia-based community of the Mahayana Chan/Zen tradition, affiliated with the World Zen Fellowship. We are open to anyone seeking stillness, clarity, and practice in the spirit of Buddhism.

Get in touch

What unites us

A place of stillness in the heart of Sofia

Buddhism is perhaps the most tolerant of the world's traditions. Wherever it is practiced, it adapts to local conditions as a philosophical school and a way of life, without losing its core principles. For us, Buddhism is not strictly a religion but a path that helps us meet the challenges of contemporary life.

We come from different roads — some of us have practiced for years, others are taking their first steps. What unites us is the same intention: to sit down, quiet the noise in our minds, and look at things as they are.

Community gathered together in practice

"The mind that sees limits has set them itself."

What we believe

The Ten Buddhist Virtues

Each of us, whoever and whatever we are, follows these ten virtues in daily practice.

Generosity · Morality · Renunciation · Wisdom · Energy
Patience · Truthfulness · Determination · Loving-kindness · Equanimity

The path

Three doors to practice

Study

Reading and discussing core Mahayana Buddhist texts — accessible, with no prior knowledge required.

Meditation

Shared sitting practice for beginners and experienced practitioners alike, with a short introduction before each session.

Community

Regular gatherings, tea, and conversation — practice off the cushion matters just as much.

Statue of the Buddha

Teachings of the Buddha

What we study

At the heart of our practice are the teaching of the Four Noble Truths, the Bodhisattva's path of compassion, and faith in Amitabha Buddha of the Pure Land school.

Read more →

Join us

Zen Group Sofia

Our regular meditation meetings take place every Monday, 19:15 – 21:00. We begin with a short introduction to posture and breathing, followed by joint sitting practice (zazen) and a brief conversation. No prior experience is needed.

See the address
Temple setting

Building a home

We are currently working to establish our own center

If you share our beliefs and would like to become part of the community, simply write to us. Any contribution toward our future center is welcome.

Write to us

Nam Mô A Di Đà Phật
Nam Mô Quán Thế Âm Bồ Tát
Nam Mô Đại Thế Chí Bồ Tát