Whenever we talk about Zen attitude, one thing comes to mind at the same time, Buddhism. Some consider them similar practices, but practitioners know how to distinguish Zen from Buddhism.
What does Zen really mean for Buddhists and what place does it occupy in this practice?
General information on the zen attitude
Above all, we need to go back several decades BCE to learn about Zen. From a theoretical point of view, it is defined as a philosophy that focuses on meditation in order to achieve inner enlightenment. It is about detaching oneself from emotions and the external environment to perceive the good meaning of life, to live in well-being and joy. Indeed, it is a way to relieve stress and make way for the positive aspects of life. Thus, the Zen attitude translates into the search for serenity and harmony, inner peace and emotional, relational, physical and especially mental balance.
But from a practical point of view, it is the zazen posture chosen by Siddharta Guatama, said Buddha, during his deep meditation. Indeed, this famous sitting position of the Buddha has become the universal reference in Zen and in the practice of Buddhism.
What does Satori mean?
The English translation of the Japanese term "Satori" is "understanding" or "to see in one's own nature". This is true human nature, that is to say the very essence of humanity. It has three aspects, including the human aspect, the physical aspect is the geometric aspect that we call spectacle. This essence does not need to be shaped because it is natural and it determines the nature of the human being through its characters, good or bad. In addition, the latter are at the origin of mental agitation, that is to say the actions taken and the reflexes emitted by this person. Hence, Satori is a state of mindand an experience.
In other words, it is like a kind of symbol that thought sends and then dictates gestures. J. Krishnamurti says about this: “Symbols exist, of course, as a means of communicating with others; through language, painting, poetry, we communicate something we feel or think. » Added to this is the instinct of self-preservation, which is defined by the desire to preserve everything, including origin, personality, taste, esteem and many others. For Buddhist masters, Satori takes the form of Nirvana, that is to say the ultimate truth.
Reiki in the Zen attitude
The Japanese meditation master MikaoUsui founded Reiki at the beginning of the 20th century. It is a method that contributes to personal development, that is to say relaxation through meditation. The French translation of the term is “the strength of the spirit,” which aims to satisfy every person. Moreover, the principle of Reiki is based on this principle, as Christian Mortier, traditional Reiki teacher at the Reiki Institute, says: “the well-being of the human being depends on himself. » According to him, the definition of this practice is as follows: “Reiki aims to support anyone from their discomfort towards their lasting well-being. »
Today there is even an institute that teaches the basics, basic principles and techniques of Reiki. Before each session, the teacher speaks with the consultant to find out his motivations and expectations. Then, regarding the practice, unlike meditation, the session takes place in absolute silence to strengthen the connection with oneself.
Zenitude in Buddhism
According to the Buddhist concept, Zen is above all something that we experience before being a practice. Zen Buddhism is an integral part of Mahayana which is the original form of Buddhism. Also called "great vehicle", this doctrine concerns emptiness and has as its main objective the attainment of complete Buddhahood. It refers to the enlightened state of the Buddha, that is, it dates back to the spiritual awakening known as Satori in Japanese and Nirvana in Sanskrit, as noted above.
The practice of Zen in Buddhism is a way of learning to know yourself through lived experiences. It also allows us to better understand our environment and others in order to live in harmony with them.
The similarity between Buddhism and Zen
In terms of similarity, Zen is considered the very essence of Buddhism because it corresponds to meditation. However, Siddhartha Guatama or Buddha achieved enlightenment by meditating for 49 days. Indeed, this enlightenment is the starting point of Buddhism because this doctrine was born from the experience of the Buddha. This is why it is said that meditation is the original form of zazen and that the most authentic practice is that of dhyana. The latter is linked to emptiness because it consists of emptying the mind and eliminating bonnos through psychological techniques. The most common definition of bonno is illusion.
In Zen Buddhism, illusion reflects reality and emphasizes humanity's attachment to aspects of life, including the physical, material and mental. Zazen influences these three aspects and is a source of revolution and change in life. Hence the similarity between the two.
The nuance between Buddhism and Zen
Buddhism concerns the teachings of the Buddha at the end of his enlightenment. This religion is based on a well-defined doctrine, its own practices and writings, traditions and cultures which influence the Buddhist way of life. In Buddhism, the achievement of spiritual awakening and the importance of salvation and wisdom are emphasized. Buddha’s words support this thesis: “The truth and the path to salvation are offered to all men, whether they live in a cave, a monastery, or a house. (...) It is not reserved for those who renounce the world. »
In Zen, it focuses on Taoism and gives importance to experiences rather than theoretical concepts and teachings. But again, unlike Buddhism, Zen is not based on belief in God or others.
