12.2 Zen Buddhism in Japan and Korea

Zen Buddhism, a meditation-focused branch of Mahayana Buddhism, spread from China to Japan and Korea during the Tang Dynasty. Monks traveled between countries, bringing Chan teachings and texts that formed the basis for Zen and Seon schools in their respective lands.

In Japan, Zen developed into Rinzai and Sōtō schools, emphasizing different meditation practices. Korea saw the rise of Seon Buddhism with various mountain schools. Both countries integrated Zen principles into art, literature, and daily life, profoundly shaping their cultures.

Transmission and Development of Zen Buddhism in Japan and Korea

Transmission of Chan Buddhism

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• Chan Buddhism spread from China to Japan and Korea during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) through monks who traveled between the countries
  • Japanese monks like Saichō (767-822) and Kūkai (774-835) brought Chan teachings back from China
  • Korean monks such as Beomnang (fl. 632-646) and Sinhaeng (704-779) studied in China and introduced Chan to Korea
• Important Chan texts (Platform Sutra, Lankavatara Sutra) and teachings were transmitted to Japan and Korea, forming the basis for Zen and Seon schools

Zen development in Japan vs Korea

• Japan:
  • Rinzai school founded by Myōan Eisai (1141-1215), influenced by Chinese Linji school
    • Emphasis on koan practice (paradoxical questions) and sudden enlightenment
  • Sōtō school founded by Dōgen Zenji (1200-1253), influenced by Chinese Caodong school
    • Focus on shikantaza meditation (just sitting) and gradual enlightenment
• Korea:
  • Seon Buddhism developed as the Korean counterpart to Japanese Zen
    • Nine Mountain Schools represented different lineages and teaching styles
      • Sumi-san school founded by Ieom (869-936) emphasized sudden enlightenment
      • Seongju-san school founded by Chinul (1158-1210) synthesized sudden and gradual approaches
  • Ganhwa Seon, "observing the hwadu" meditation, similar to Japanese koan practice
    • Developed by Chinul, later popularized by Taego Bou (1301-1382)

Features of Japanese Zen

• Strong emphasis on zazen (seated meditation) as the primary means to achieve enlightenment
  • Dōgen's "Fukan zazengi" (Universal Recommendation for Zazen) stressed importance of proper posture and mindfulness
• Integration of Zen principles into various art forms as expressions of Zen insight
  • Calligraphy, painting, poetry, gardening
  • Concept of wabi-sabi: beauty in simplicity, imperfection, transience
• Close master-disciple relationship for direct transmission of teachings
  • Emphasis on lineage and dharma transmission

Zen's influence on Japanese culture

• Art:
  • Ink wash painting (sumi-e) reflects Zen aesthetics through minimalist style
  • Zen gardens (karesansui) feature rock and gravel arrangements to promote meditation and contemplation
• Literature:
  • Haiku poetry captures moments of insight and natural beauty
  • Zen kōans are paradoxical stories or questions used to challenge logical thinking and provoke enlightenment
• Tea ceremony (chadō or sadō) embodies Zen principles of mindfulness, simplicity, respect
  • Ritualized preparation and serving of tea
  • Influenced by Sen no Rikyū (1522-1591) who integrated Zen aesthetics into the ceremony

Role of Korean Seon Buddhism

• Seon Buddhism became dominant in Korea during Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392)
  • Supported by royal court and aristocracy
• Chinul's synthesis of sudden awakening followed by gradual cultivation influenced later Korean Seon thought and practice
• Ganhwa Seon practice gained prominence in late Goryeo and early Joseon periods
  • Encouraged introspection and self-realization
• Seon monasteries served as centers of learning and culture
  • Contributed to preservation and transmission of Buddhist texts and teachings
• Influenced Korean art and literature
  • Seon themes and aesthetics reflected in painting, calligraphy, poetry