Lew Richmond

The Vimala Sangha, originally founded by now-retired teacher Lew Richmond, is based in Mill Valley, CA (Vimala Sangha Mill Valley) and is currently led by teacher Ed Sattizahn assisted by Al Tribe and lay teacher Gib Robinson. The practice style of Vimala Sangha especially supports dedicated lay Buddhist practitioners, and draws inspiration (as well as its name) from Vimalakirti, the “householder Buddha” of Buddhist scripture whose wisdom was said to surpass that of all the Buddha’s other great disciples.

NOTICE: THE TIBURON VIMALA SANGHA IS NO LONGER MEETING MONDAY NIGHTS. IT MAY MEET FROM TIME TO TIME ON SATURDAYS; NOTICE OF SATURDAY SITTINGS WILL BE SENT TO THE TIBURON MAILING LIST.

Ed Sattizahn

The Vimala Sangha is in the lineage and teaching style of Zen Master Shunryu Suzuki Roshi.  Both Ed and Lew studied with Suzuki Roshi during his lifetime, and view The Vimala Sangha as an expression of Suzuki’s vision of a universal meditation Buddhism free from sectarian limitations and influences. Vimala Sangha’s forms of practice and methods of inquiry are inspired by Suzuki Roshi’s founding vision, are illuminated by the ground of American society and culture, and are respectful of all teachings and schools of Buddhism.

We also honor the value of kindness as primary to all Buddhism, and at the end of every meditation period, we recite this loving kindness verse:

May all beings be filled with Loving Kindness,

May all beings be free from suffering,

May all beings be happy and at peace.