Q. Zen Buddhism, introduced in the twelfth century A.D., found its adherents mainly among the war riors and influenced Japanese culture considerabley. The key to enlightenment, according to Zen Buddhism, is:
(a) Recollection
(b) Virtuous life
(c) Meditation
(d) Piety
Ans: (c) Meditation
Explanation:
The key to enlightenment, according to Zen Buddhism, is (c) meditation.
Zen Buddhism, also known as Chan Buddhism in China, emphasizes direct experience and meditation as the primary means to attain enlightenment. It originated in China and was later introduced to Japan in the 12th century.
In Zen Buddhism, the practice of meditation, known as zazen, is central to the path of awakening. Through seated meditation, practitioners aim to cultivate a state of focused awareness, mindfulness, and deep concentration. This practice is intended to lead to direct experiential insight into the nature of reality and one’s own true nature.
Zen teachings often involve the use of paradoxical statements (koans) and non-conceptual approaches to guide practitioners beyond intellectual understanding and into direct experiential realization. The emphasis on meditation and direct experience distinguishes Zen Buddhism from some other Buddhist traditions that may place more emphasis on scriptural study, rituals, or devotional practices.
While recollection, virtuous life, and piety are important aspects in various forms of Buddhism, Zen Buddhism places particular emphasis on meditation as the key to attaining enlightenment and deepening one’s understanding of the nature of existence.
