Zen
Zen is a school of Mahayana Buddhism that originated in China during the Tang dynasty and later spread to Japan and other East Asian countries. The term “Zen” is derived from the Sanskrit word “dhyana,” meaning meditation, reflecting its emphasis on meditation practice as a means to attain enlightenment. Zen teachings often emphasize direct insight into the nature of reality beyond conceptual thinking, with an emphasis on mindfulness, awareness, and simplicity. Zen practitioners typically engage in seated meditation (zazen), guided by a teacher (roshi) within a monastic or lay community. The goal of Zen practice is to awaken to one’s true nature, or Buddha nature, and to live in accordance with that realization, fostering compassion, wisdom, and inner peace. Beyond meditation, Zen has also influenced various aspects of art, culture, and daily life, with practices such as tea ceremony, calligraphy, and martial arts reflecting its principles of mindfulness, presence, and spontaneity. With its emphasis on direct experience and intuitive understanding, Zen continues to be a profound and influential spiritual tradition that resonates with people seeking inner transformation and awakening in the modern world.
