Founder

Hakuun Sokai Geoffrey Barratt, Osho began his Zen practice in 1975 with Kyozan Joshu Roshi. Sokai was ordained as a monk by Roshi in 1987 and was ordained as a Zen priest in 1999. Sokai came to Tempe in 1994, purchased the property on Cedar Street and began creating a nurturing and supportive environment for people to learn about Rinzai Zen Buddhism and to practice zazen. Drawing on his background in Siddha Yoga, various styles of bodywork and breath-based therapy, Sokai stressed an inclusive, balanced approach to Zen practice. He touched thousands of people’s lives with his kindness, profound and unassuming wisdom and his deep devotion to practice. In 2014 Sokai ordained Sogen Charles Billingsley as his successor to lead Haku-un-ji. Sokai’s commitment to Haku-un-ji, the Sangha and to Zen practice remained extremely strong until his untimely death in 2014 at age 62.