Zen

Zen is the Japanese name of a well known branch of Mahāyāna Buddhist schools, practiced originally in China as Chan(?), and subsequently in Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. Zen emphasizes the role of sitting meditation (zazen) in pursuing enlightenment. Zen can be considered a religion, a philosophy, or simply a practice depending on one's perspective. It has also been described as a way of life, work, and an art form.

Zen in Japan

The following Zen schools still exist in Japan: Rinzai, Soto, and Obaku. Originally formulated by the eponymous Chinese master Linji (Rinzai in Japanese), the Rinzai school was introduced to Japan in 1191 by Eisai. Dogen, who studied under Eisai, would later carry the Caodong, or "Soto" Zen school to Japan from China. Obaku was introduced in the 17th century by Ingen, a Chinese monk.

Related Topics:
Rinzai - Soto - Obaku - Eponym - Linji - Japan - 1191 - Eisai - Dogen - Caodong - China - 17th century - Ingen

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Some contemporary Japanese Zen teachers, such as Daiun Harada and Shunryu Suzuki have criticized Japanese Zen as being a formalized system of empty rituals with very few Zen practitioners ever actually attaining realization. They assert that almost all Japanese temples have become family businesses handed down from father to son, and the Zen priest's function has largely been reduced to officiating at funerals.

Related Topics:
Daiun Harada - Shunryu Suzuki - Funeral

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Some Japanese Zen sects and teachers have also been criticized for their involvement in Japanese militarism and nationalism especially during World War II. In particular an American Soto Zen priest Brian Victoria has exposed a number of instances where Buddhist teachings were used to justify acts of killing. http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0834804050/103-9814091-3292632?v=glance

Related Topics:
Sect - Militarism - Nationalism - World War II - Soto

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Zen is also associated with Japanese tea ceremony.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~