Zen

/zɛn/

/zɛn/

Other forms: Zens

Zen is a type of Buddhism that began in China and flourished in Japan. Practicing Zen Buddhism includes meditating while observing the flow of your breath in and out.

Zen is the Japanese pronunciation of a Chinese word, ch'an, which comes from a Sanskrit root meaning "thought," "absorption," or "meditation." And meditation is at the heart of Zen, along with an emphasis on self-control and insight. Most Zen Buddhists have a teacher they look to for wisdom and guidance as they practice.

Definitions of Zen

1. noun

   school of Mahayana Buddhism asserting that enlightenment can come through meditation and intuition rather than faith; China and Japan
   synonyms: Zen Buddhism

   type of:

   Buddhism

   a religion represented by the many groups (especially in Asia) that profess various forms of the Buddhist doctrine and that venerate Buddha
2. noun

   a Buddhist doctrine that enlightenment can be attained through direct intuitive insight
   synonyms: Zen Buddhism

   type of:

   Buddhism

   the teaching of Buddha that life is permeated with suffering caused by desire, that suffering ceases when desire ceases, and that enlightenment obtained through right conduct and wisdom and meditation releases one from desire and suffering and rebirth
3. noun

   street name for lysergic acid diethylamide