The Zen Discipline and Experience
Zen and the Way of the Sword September 9, 1993 DOI: 10.1093/oso/9780195068108.003.0002 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Buddhism |
| Key points | The text holds that meditation (dhyäna) is integral to Buddhist doctrine and practice but varies in degree and form across traditions; in Theravada-dominated countries it has been presumed to be the somewhat exclusive property of monks who have renounced worldly life, and without it final salvation (Nirvana) is not possible, while laypersons pursue merit through moral precepts and support of monks for a better rebirth. |
Abstract
Abstract Meditation has always been an integral Part of Buddhist doctrine and practice, though followed in varying degrees and in differing forms in the several Buddhist traditions. In those countries dominated by the Buddhist Theravada tradition, it is termed dhyäna and has been presumed to be the somewhat exclusive property of the monks who have foresworn worldly life. Indeed, final salvation (the attainment of Nirvana) is not possible without it. Laypersons have moral precepts to follow and monks to support and honor in order to gain merit for a better rebirth, perhaps with a monk’s nirvanic-oriented career in store.