What is Zen?

The idea of Zen is widespread in Japan. The term is an abbreviation for “Zenna,” a transliteration of the Sanskrit word. Zenna means to unify the spirit and pursue the truth, and it refers to the Zen sect of zazen training. Zen looks for the truth of our own existence. Zen monks practice for that purpose, but Zen can be practiced in everyday life. Controlling ourselves, thanking all things, eliminating waste and reconsidering our way of life lead to Zen.

The history of Zen

Zen grew from the experience of Shakyamuni Buddha, who realized awakening in the zazen (Zen meditation) in India in the 5th century BCE. His experience has been transmitted from various masters to disciples, creating the Zen lineage while preserving Buddha’s wisdom.

The monk Bodhidharma supposedly took the teaching to China in the 5th century CE. Zen, Chán in Chinese, spread widely throughout the country, and it affirmed the originality, simplicity and purity of the practice during this period.

In the 13th century, the Japanese monk Dogen brought Soto Zen to Japan after staying in China. Zen would profoundly influence the whole Japanese culture, providing the context of belief for various rituals and ceremonies. More than 20,000 temples remaining today reflect a remarkable diffusion.

How to practice Zen

Engaging in meditative activities that require focus and attention to detail helps calm our mind and body. Traditional Japanese culture, including the tea ceremony, is influenced by Zen principles, and Japanese people have practiced that way for hundreds of years. Many in the modern time exercise Zen by meditating and practicing mindfulness. However, some people find it easier to practice Zen by walking, cooking or doing artistic activities, such as drawing and coloring.

Notable persons who spread Japanese Zen

Zen was spread through Japanese Zen masters to western culture. The great Rinzai master Soyen Shaku (1859-1919) introduced Zen Buddhism to America in 1893 at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago. Shaku’s student and author, D.T. Suzuki (Daisetsu Suzuki, 1870-1966), promoted Japanese Zen to a global audience as he wrote some critical pieces in English.

Another Zen Master, Thich Nhat Hanh (1926-2022), is a global spiritual leader, poet, and peace activist. His renowned teachings on mindfulness and peace have become bestselling books. Zen also inspires practitioners, including celebrities worldwide, such as Oprah Winfrey and Jeff Weiner, CEO of LinkedIn.

Places that offer Zen experiences

Various places across Japan offer the experience to those looking for Zen-related opportunities. They include temples and Zen retreat centers. Some monasteries welcome visitors to experience zazen meditations and other types of training. Additionally, exploring Japanese cultures, such as traditional art or gardens, can offer a Zen experience since it can be found in many forms still to this day.

The future of Zen

A lifestyle of living with less, also known as “Zen Minimalism,” inspires many in the modern world. It originated from the Zen teaching of simplicity. The minimalist perspective can shift people’s consumerism to focus on living with the bare essentials. If practiced correctly, it can contribute to conserving resources and can lead us to live more sustainably. Zen can also promote one’s well-being. Meditations, including zazen, have been scientifically proven to improve physical and mental health. Zen practices have been applied in medical fields to help many patients.