Ruben Habito

Ruben Habito is a Filipino-born Zen teacher in the Sanbo Kyodan lineage who studied with Yamada Koun and received dharma transmission. He is distinctive for his integration of Zen practice with Catholic theology, having originally trained as a Jesuit priest before devoting himself fully to Zen teaching. He founded the Maria Kannon Zen Center in Dallas, Texas.

Habito's work represents one of the most creative dimensions of the Sanbo Kyodan's legacy—the dialogue between Zen and Christian contemplative traditions. Building on Yamada Koun's openness to practitioners of all religious backgrounds, Habito has developed a practice and theology that honors both traditions, demonstrating that the experience of awakening pointed to by Zen is compatible with and enriching of the contemplative depths of Christianity.