Simply sitting: origins
July 17, 2018 DOI: 10.4324/9780429458606-3 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that the typical etymological definition of zazen as simply derivative of the Indian dhyana is limited, and that despite zazen's central position across Zen sects, descriptions of its form, function, goals, and practices vary. Contends that a historical shift moved Zen religious orientation from abstract philosophy and doctrine toward lived experience and action. |
Abstract
This chapter explicates differences in style and intention of zazen – Zen sitting meditation – beginning with a discussion of the limits of the typical etymological definition of zazen as simply derivative of the Indian dhyana (meditation). Despite the fact that zazen holds a central position across various Zen sects, there are diverse descriptions regarding its form, function, goals, and practices. In the Zen tradition, the term zazen refers to meditation. The use of the term "sitting" in this discussion is intended to distinguish this specific form of Zen practice from the more general and abstract idea of "meditation." With zazen at the core of religious practice, a shift occurred historically in Zen religious orientation away from abstract philosophy and doctrine to lived experience and action. For this reason, Zen (and zazen) is tough to understand with the depth and nuance that it demands.