Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #533367 in Books
• Published on: 1991-01-28
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 176 pages

Synopsis
Zen from its foundation in China in the 6th century has always been more than a religion. It is a system of principles and practices designed to give each individual the experience of eternity in a split second, the knowledge of divinity in every living thing. This text uses a mix of informative writing and illustrations to document the story of Zen from its impact on Chinese and Japanese culture to its influence on American writers such as Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg and Gary Snyder. The paradoxical teaching stories and styles of the Zen master are shown as keys to understanding Oriental art, literature, architecture and attitudes towards life and death.

Customer Reviews

Excellent overview of Zen
This is an excellent, easy to read survey of Zen. Most other Zen books are too airey fairy and leave the beginner baffled as to what Zen is all about. Zen is defined and meditation techniques are briefly outlined. Zen riddles are placed into context so that the reader can better understand their applications within Zen. It also includes a brief historical overview of the movement as well as descriptions of the various (primarily Chinese and Japanese) Zen schools.