Zen practitioners don’t study scriptures, as Zen emphasizes direct experience over intellectual learning. It is a direct transmission outside the scriptures, not relying on words or letters, pointing directly to the mind, and seeing into one’s true nature to attain Buddhahood.
You’re not wrong—there are indeed many schools of Zen with different lineages, and some are more Buddhist in nature. That’s absolutely true. However, it’s worth noting that the early patriarchs of Zen (or Chan, as it’s called in Chinese) often discouraged reliance on scriptures, emphasizing direct experience and personal insight over textual study. By the way, I really admire your article, and I appreciate the perspective you’ve shared.
I’m very familiar with the Chan/Zen tradition, at least from a literary perspective. I understand the primacy of the “direct insight” teaching. Heck, it’s in my comic book so it must be true! 😇
I appreciate your input and kudos. Much obliged. More coming this Sunday!
Zen practitioners don’t study scriptures, as Zen emphasizes direct experience over intellectual learning. It is a direct transmission outside the scriptures, not relying on words or letters, pointing directly to the mind, and seeing into one’s true nature to attain Buddhahood.
I know. Didn't I write something to that effect? If not, I should've had.
And they do read Buddhist scriptures. The emphasis depends on which school and tradition a teacher's lineage comes from.
You’re not wrong—there are indeed many schools of Zen with different lineages, and some are more Buddhist in nature. That’s absolutely true. However, it’s worth noting that the early patriarchs of Zen (or Chan, as it’s called in Chinese) often discouraged reliance on scriptures, emphasizing direct experience and personal insight over textual study. By the way, I really admire your article, and I appreciate the perspective you’ve shared.
I’m very familiar with the Chan/Zen tradition, at least from a literary perspective. I understand the primacy of the “direct insight” teaching. Heck, it’s in my comic book so it must be true! 😇
I appreciate your input and kudos. Much obliged. More coming this Sunday!