Zen Meditation as a Practice of Clearing the Heart-Mind

Liberating wisdom in Zen Buddhism can only be obtained through experiential, holistic practice, not merely by memorizing or intellectually reflecting on teachings. Zen meditation is a non-discursive practice of clearing the heart-mind through subtraction—letting go of words, images, thoughts, and egocentric agendas. The ultimate aim is to become an egoless vehicle for the Bodhisattva vow to liberate all sentient beings from suffering. The chapter also critiques secularized mindfulness techniques and describes proximate benefits of Zen meditation, including reduced stress and increased concentration and self-confidence.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract This chapter explains the importance of meditation for Zen in terms of what the Buddhist tradition calls the three levels of wisdom: received, intellectual, and experiential wisdom. As important as memorizing teachings and intellectually reflecting on them are, liberating wisdom can only be obtained experientially through holistic practice. Zen meditation is a non-discursive practice of clearing of the heart-mind. Rather than adding words, images, or thoughts to the mind, it proceeds by way of “subtraction.” It is only by letting go of all egocentric agendas that one can fulfill the ultimate aim of Zen, which is to become an egoless and effective vehicle for the great Bodhisattva vow to liberate all sentient beings from suffering. After explaining how Zen teachers have criticized misuses of secularized “mindfulness” techniques, the chapter ends with an account of the proximate benefits of practicing Zen meditation, such as reducing stress and increasing concentration and self-confidence.