Gert Zen’etsu Klopman was born in the province of Groningen. He studied coastal engineering in Delft (MSc) and applied mathematics in Twente (PhD). As a specialist on ocean waves—and their impacts on coasts, harbors, and structures—he worked with various institutes and organizations.
Concurrently, he received Zen training from Niko Tydeman Roshi, Jiun Hogen Roshi, and Harada Tangen Roshi. Around 2003, he began practicing at Zen River. His engineering expertise significantly contributed to preparing the temple for the future, making it more sustainable, energy-efficient, and earthquake-resistant.
Zen’etsu received Dharma transmission in 2024.