Zen Koans

The Zen koan is, essentially, a problem that cannot be solved by the intellect. In trying to understand the koan, the student learns the limitations of thought — and can experience “satori,” a direct, non-verbal awareness of reality. Used by Zen Masters from ancient times to the present, koans are famous guideposts in the quest for enlightenment — Nirvana. To render the koans more intelligible to contemporary readers, the Venerable Kubose, an American-born Buddhist priest, has provided his original commentary. Thus the Western reader can relate the koans to modern life and gain some understanding of Zen teachings. Zen Koans Contents Author's Note Introduction I Transcending Duality II Awareness III Non-attachment IV Naturalness V What Is Zen? VI No Imitations VII Beyond Reason VIII A Matter of Life and Death Zen Transmission Lineage Glossary of Buddhist Names and Terms Index of Koans