The Language of Zen: Heart Speaking to Heart

“God,” “Zazen,” “Void,” “Koan”: We may think we understand these words. But what exactly do they mean in the world of Zen Buddhism? Westerners can have difficulty grasping the language in the way the original Zen writers intended. This lyrical inquiry examines the complexity of these terms, expanding your mind and opening it to the possibilities of Zen.

The first section provides brief explanations; the second part goes into greater depth, with some words repeated and others new. Why can we recognize the words “dharma” and “karma” and not Mahayana, the Greater Vehicle? In what way is the Buddha like a jumping frog?

Unlike entries in a dictionary, this lively conversation will animate your thoughts and stir your sleeping consciousness.