Meditation is a central practice in Zen from "summary" of The Way of Zen by Alan Watts
The practice of meditation holds a central place in Zen. It is through meditation that the Zen student comes to directly experience the truth of existence. This direct experience is essential in Zen, as mere intellectual understanding is not sufficient. Meditation allows the student to transcend the limitations of language and thought, and to connect with the ultimate reality that lies beyond concepts. In Zen, meditation is not seen as a means to an end, but as an end in itself. The focus is not on achieving some future goal, but on being fully present in the moment. Through meditation, the student learns to let go of attachments and desires, and to simply be with what is. This state of pure awareness is known as "satori" or enlightenment. The practice of meditation in Zen is characterized by a sense of effortlessness. The student is not striving to achieve anything, but is simply allowing things to unfold naturally. This sense of effortlessness is crucial, as it allows the student to let go of the ego and surrender to the flow of existence. In Zen meditation, the emphasis is on non-doing. The student is not trying to control or manipulate their experience, but is simply observing it with a sense of openness and curiosity. This attitude of non-doing is essential in Zen, as it allows the student to see things as they truly are, without the distortions of the ego. Through the practice of meditation, the Zen student comes to realize the interconnectedness of all things. They see that the boundaries between self and other are illusory, and that ultimately there is no separation between themselves and the rest of the universe. This realization is transformative, leading to a deep sense of peace and harmony. In Zen, meditation is not seen as a separate activity, but as an integral part of daily life. The insights gained through meditation are meant to be carried into every aspect of life, informing how the student relates to themselves, to others, and to the world around them. This integration of meditation into daily life is what allows the Zen student to embody the wisdom and compassion of the Zen tradition.
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