What is Zen Buddhism?

Zen Buddhism, as discussed in this course, is a branch of Mahayana Buddhism that originated in China in the 6th century and later developed in Japan. It focuses on the practice of meditation, known as zazen, which aims to bring practitioners to a state of mindfulness and self-awareness.

Unlike other schools of Buddhism, Zen places special emphasis on direct experience and intuition rather than relying solely on sacred texts or doctrines.

Zen was the first Buddhist school to gain popularity in Europe in the 20th century, thanks to D.T. Suzuki, who introduced this Buddhist philosophy to the West. The teachings of Zen Buddhist masters were well-received by Western artists and intellectuals.

In the Zen Buddhism course, you will learn about the fundamental principles of this tradition, such as impermanence, the interconnectedness of all beings, and the importance of the present moment. Through meditation and reflection, participants can discover greater inner peace and mental clarity.

Additionally, Zen Buddhism promotes simplicity and humility in everyday life. Practitioners are encouraged to observe their thoughts and emotions without judgment, allowing them to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

If you are interested in exploring Zen Buddhism, this course will provide the necessary tools to begin your spiritual journey. Through regular practice and the guidance of an experienced instructor, you can deepen your understanding and experience the benefits of this ancient tradition.

Zen Buddhism Course – The Way of Zen

Throughout the course, we will explore the fundamental teachings of Zen, the Buddhist practice of mindfulness, compassion, and impermanence. These teachings are not just theoretical concepts but are integrated into our daily lives, helping us face challenges with a new perspective.

Additionally, we will engage in practices such as seated meditation (zazen) and walking meditation (kinhin), which are essential for cultivating attention and inner calm. Through these practices, we will learn to observe our thoughts and emotions without judgment, allowing us to develop greater mental and emotional clarity.

The course will also include dialogue and reflection sessions, where we can share our experiences and insights. This exchange will enrich us and help deepen our understanding of Zen.

By the end of the training, we hope that each participant will have acquired valuable tools to apply in their daily lives, promoting a state of well-being and inner peace. The Way of Zen is not only a path of self-discovery but also an invitation to live more consciously and fully.

The Paramitas in Zen Buddhism

This process of transformation is not easy but is deeply rewarding. The consistent practice of meditation invites us to look inward, confronting our emotions and thoughts without judgment. As we progress, we begin to notice subtle changes in how we view the world. Patience and compassion become our allies, and we learn to be kinder to ourselves and others.

The Zen Bodhisattva Path teaches us to cultivate a generous heart and to wish for the well-being of all beings. It reminds us that our practice is not just about our own growth but also about how we can contribute to collective well-being. Every time we sit to meditate, we create a space of peace that radiates outward into the world.

On the other hand, the Zen monastic path offers structure and discipline, which can be very useful. Through rituals, study, and community life, we learn to integrate meditation into every aspect of our lives. Daily routines become opportunities to practice mindfulness, and every action, no matter how small, becomes an act of meditation.

By combining these paths, we can find a balance that allows us to advance on our spiritual journey. The key lies in perseverance and remembering that every step, no matter how small, matters. Zen practice is not a destination but a continuous journey of self-discovery and connection with the world around us. Over time, meditation becomes a refuge, a place we can return to whenever we need clarity and peace.

The Three Paths

The Path of the meditator is for those who want to practice meditation and mindfulness but do not currently consider embarking on a spiritual journey within Zen Buddhism. In Zen communities, everyone freely chooses their own path.

The Path of the Bodhisattva is for those who wish to focus on a practice that transcends the ego through compassion, generosity, and cultivating bodhicitta—the aspiration for awakening—guided by a transmission master.

Ultimately, for those who wish to go further, the Path of the Monk or Nun in Zen Buddhism invites us to renounce samsara and, from that point, transform delusions into energy for the practice of Awakening, which we share through dedication and a spirit of service toward others.

This path requires deep commitment and constant discipline. Zen Buddhist monks and nuns immerse themselves in meditation, the study of the teachings, and the practice of mindfulness, always seeking connection with their inner self and the world around them. Through communal life, they learn to live in harmony, supporting each other in their spiritual journey.

Of course, each path includes the one before it: the path of the monk or nun includes the path of the bodhisattva, and the path of the bodhisattva includes the path of the meditator. Each step follows the previous one.

Practicing in a Zen Center or Temple

The 13th-century Zen master Dogen said, “The way of Zen is to know oneself; to know oneself is to forget oneself.”

Zen practice is not limited to seated meditation but also extends to everyday activities. Every action, from preparing food to cleaning the temple, becomes an opportunity to cultivate presence and awareness. This holistic approach allows practitioners to find enlightenment in the ordinary, transforming every moment into an opportunity for awakening.

Furthermore, Zen communities foster an environment of respect and support, where each member is valued for their uniqueness and contribution to the group. The diversity of experiences and perspectives enriches collective practice, reminding everyone that the path to awakening is unique to each individual but can be traveled in the company of others.

Thus, both the bodhisattva and the monk or nun, despite their differing levels of commitment, share a common goal: the liberation from suffering, both their own and others’. In this journey, compassion becomes the unifying thread that connects all beings, reminding us that, in the end, we are all interconnected in this pursuit of peace and understanding.

Zen Buddhism Course– The way of Zen

The Zen Way classes begin with a brief zazen meditation. Afterward, the teacher presents the topics, and questions and contributions can be made, naturally from the experience of living the Zen Way in today’s world.

Zen Master: Lluís Nansen Salas.
In Person at Zen Kannon Barcelona & Online by zoom.
Course start: January 11, 2025
Schedule: Saturdays or sundays from 5:00 to 7:00 PM

Calendar 2025

History of Zen Buddhism

• Saturday, January 11
• Saturday, January 25
• Saturday, February 1

Foundations of Dharma

• Saturday, March 1
• Saturday, March 29
• Saturday, April 12

The Way of Zen

• Sunday, July 6
• Sunday, July 13
• Sunday, July 20

Price for each 3-class module: 75 euros (Active members: 20 euros).
Complete Zen Buddhism course (3 modules): 210 euros (Active members: 60 euros).

For more information and registration, please send the form right away