Zen Buddhism is a tradition of Mahayana Buddhism that originated in China and has had a significant influence on the spiritual and cultural life of East Asia. Zen is characterized by its emphasis on meditation and personal experience as a means of achieving enlightenment and spiritual understanding.
Zen Buddhism is based on the teachings of the Buddha, and like other forms of Buddhism, it seeks to understand the true nature of reality and the nature of the mind. In Zen, meditation is seen as the primary means of cultivating mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom, and practitioners are encouraged to cultivate these qualities through regular meditation practice.
Zen Buddhism is often associated with a number of distinct cultural practices, such as the use of koans (riddles or paradoxes that are used as meditation aids) and the participation in Zen retreats or sesshins (intensive meditation retreats).
Zen Buddhism has had a significant influence on the spiritual and cultural life of East Asia and has also gained popularity in the West in recent years. It is practiced by millions of people around the world.
