y The Zen Sect z
The Zen sect is one of the denominations
of Buddhism. Zen is defined as the
enlightened religious and mental state attained
by achieving serenity on mind. What
we call Zazen is a kind of practice. We do
Zazen meditation in order to obtain
this serenity of mind. It is said that our
brain waves reach an alpha state, and we
can feel very peaceful.
Japanese priests studied the Zen sect
in ChinaCand introduced it to Japan in the
12th and 13th centuries.
According to the Zen sect, truth is beyond
our description; truth is something we
can never understand. In order to find truth,
we must get direct proof through the
experience of Zazen.
Zen philosophy and aesthetics have become
the backbone of the samurai spirit.
It also manifests itself in the tea ceremony
and Japanese flower arrangement. It has
exerted great influence on
Japanese thought, culture and literally,
all aspects of Japanese life. As a method
of spiritual training, some people pay periodical
visits to Zen temples.
The Japanese are blessed with the beauty
of nature and a moderate four-season
climate, despite the threat of natural disasters
or the invasion of enemies.
The Japanese have remained tolerant of all
sects of Buddhism right through to the 20th
century.
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