Inviting the Esoteric into the Exoteric: Contemporary Challenges in American Zen Buddhism
Religions August 11, 2025 Malik J. M. Walker
As Zen Buddhism continues into its second century in the United States, the practices and philosophies transmitted have gone through major, though necessary transformations. At present, the vast majority of Zen temples and centers are “convert” communities that have over time adjusted language, ritual, and tradition to suit pastoral and theological needs. This article lays out a blueprint for a...