Our Teachers
Abbot & Guiding Teacher: Hoden Sunim
Contact: [email protected]
(Venerable) Hoden Sunim was ordained as a monk in 2010 and as a Bhikkhu in 2016. He has been studying and practicing Zen, Buddhism and Martial Arts for over 40 years. He currently acts as Abbot and Guiding Teacher for Dharma Gate Zen, as well as the Head Instructor of Homonji Iaido (Japanese sword arts).
Hoden Sunim graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Marygrove College in Detroit, and an Associates Degree in Buddhist Studies from Dong-Bang Seminary, South Korea. He is the author of “Walk: A contemporary guide to the eightfold path” and “Awake: A contemporary guide to you”
Dharma Teacher / Assistant Abbot:
Reverend Koshin
Contact: [email protected]
Rev. Koshin is one of the original members of Dharma Gate Zen. Initially exposed to Zen Buddhism as a college student, he now works as a professor at Oakland University where he teaches, among other things, the sociology of religion. He moved to Michigan 10 years ago and currently resides in Royal Oak with his wife and three cats.
Dharma Teacher:
Reverend Kogen
Contact: [email protected]
Rev. Kogen is an Executive Chef. He was born in Garden City, Michigan but grew up in Clarkston. He attended The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park NY. Graduated with a Bachelors in Culinary Arts and restaurant management. His path includes overcoming addiction through the implementation of Buddhist path as the core of a program to lead a fulfilling and sober life. He also is involved and is one of our leaders for the Refuge Recovery program at DGZ, Cross Fit and martial arts, including Aikido, Ryukyu Kempo and Homonji Iaido.
Dharma Teacher:
Reverend Kozai
Contact: [email protected]
Rev. Kozai was born in Royal Oak, Michigan but grew up all over the Midwest. He works as a Creative Director in the advertising industry. He began practicing Zen in 2017. Rev. Kozai runs weekly meditation sessions, gives Dharma talks and helps to support our outreach programs.
Dharma Teacher:
Reverend Kohei
Contact: [email protected]
Rev. Kohei was born in Flint Michigan and lives with his family in New Baltimore, Michigan. He is a graduate of the Center For Creative Studies and works in digital media as a profession. Rev. Kohei supports many outreach and education programs at DGZ as well as giving Dharma Talks, classes and running evening meditations.
Dharma Student:
Shudo
Shudo was born and raised in Michigan. He became a member of Dharma Gate in 2022, and was welcomed into the Dharma Student Program in 2024. While he enjoys a good film and a new recipe, he values the mental focus and physicality that Homonji Iaido requires. He is happiest spending time with his amazing wife and daughters.