Commentary on the Queen Śrīmālā Lion’s Roar Sutra

In this powerful and accessible commentary on the Queen Śrīmālā Lion’s Roar Sutra, Zen Master Daizan Skinner brings to life its radical and reassuring message: that you can meet the Buddha, realise the truth, and give voice to the lion’s roar – right within your life as it is now.

The sutra centres on Queen Śrīmālā, a laywoman immersed in worldly responsibilities and far from the Buddha’s physical presence. Yet through the clarity of her intention and faith, she meets him, receives his teaching, and roars the truth of the Dharma. The implication is: if she can do it, so can you.

Drawn from a series of live Dharma talks given by Daizan Roshi in 2022, this commentary invites you to confront suffering, align with your deepest intention, and realise your own capacity for awakening. The Buddha is not a distant figure of history, but a living presence, available here and now, through your own body, breath, and being.

Rooted in Zen yet open to all, this book is a gateway to the lion’s roar within: a voice of clarity, courage, and compassion grounded in the truth of how things really are.

With thanks to:

Transcription: Nigel Feetham and his team of sangha volunteers

Managing Editor: Mark Kuren Westmoquette

Editor: Michael Shoshin Cullingworth

Proofing: Ellen King

Cover: Lloyd Shoren Clater