The Zen Buddhist Tradition:
Zen Buddhism is a Buddhist tradition with a long, rich history. From a humble introduction in approximately 520 CE, it has grown to be a very popular branch of Buddhism, and one many Westerners are quick to think of when Buddhism is mentioned. According to popular tradition, Zen originated with Buddha's famed "Flower Sermon". In this sermon, instead of speaking, the Buddha simply walked to the edge of the stage, picked up a decorative flower, and held it aloft before returning to his seat. While many did not understand what the Buddha was trying to impart, a group of separate monks saw and understood. This understanding was passed down until a man named Bodhidharma was born around 482 CE. Bodhidharma is a legendary figure, and historians disagree over whether he existed at all. Whether he did or not is largely irrelevant to modern Zen Buddhists - he still has a tremendous impact on their religion. According to legend, Bodhidharma trekked across Himalayan mountains, braving both incredible weather conditions and bandits, without incident to bring the teachings of Buddhism into China. He meditated for nine years at a stretch, and originated the martial art known as Kung Fu as a method of teaching the Shaolin monks the value of p
However, despite Zen's emphasis on meditation, it is not a wholly meditative religion. The goal of the boddhisatva is to bring all people onto the Buddha's path of Awakening. They act as guides to other people, helping them alleviate their suffering as much as is possible and acting as compassionate guides on the right path. Continuing this idea, Zen also denies goals. As a reflection of this idea, categorizations are roundly dismissed. A perfect state of unity would entail the mind attaching to nothing, without seeking profit or reward. The Zen Master Deshimaru once said of Zen, "If you want to give Zen another name, call it Life. Zen practitioners do not seek to become Buddhas themselves. This is an idea that is alien to many people: to do something without seeking gain or reward, to perform an action for its own sake. The Zen tradition is incredibly diverse, representing people from all walks of life across the entire world. At its simplest, a koan is simply an impossible riddle. Bodhidharma's dedication to Buddhism was incredible. The practitioner sits on a thick cushion. The answer is simple: Through meditation. While in the state of zazen, what is contemplated depends on the school of Zen one follows.
Common topics in this essay:
Paradoxically Zen,
Rinzai Zen,
Zen Zen,
Zen Continuing,
Zen Buddhism,
Koans Zen,
Flower Sermon,
Soto Zen,
Kung Fu,
Zen Buddhists,
entire world,
zen buddhism,
rinzai zen,
alleviate suffering,
rests left,
physical exercise,
depends school,
martial arts,
zen tradition,
soto zen,
|
Acceptance Essays
