kierugeiko

Kierugeiko is a traditional Japanese form of seated meditation practiced within the Zen Buddhist tradition, particularly associated with the Rinzai school. The term "kierugeiko" combines "ki" (spirit or mind), "eru" (to learn or acquire), and "geiko" (meditation or sitting practice), reflecting its focus on cultivating mental clarity and spiritual discipline.

This meditation practice typically involves sitting in a formal posture, such as seiza (kneeling) or lotus position, with a straight back and relaxed yet alert demeanor. Participants focus on breath awareness, often counting breaths or observing the flow of inhalation and exhalation to cultivate concentration and mindfulness. Unlike vigorous physical practices, kierugeiko emphasizes mental stillness, silence, and the training of the mind to achieve insight and Enlightenment.

Kierugeiko is integral to Zen training, serving as a foundational element for developing concentration, patience, and mental discipline. It is often conducted in zendo (meditation halls) under the guidance of a Zen teacher or master. The practice can be adapted for lay practitioners and varies in duration, from short daily sessions to extended periods during retreats.

Within the broader context of Zen, kierugeiko complements koan study and other meditation forms, aiming to deepen awareness and foster a direct experience of reality. Its disciplined approach to seated meditation reflects the core Zen principle of direct realization through dedicated practice and mindfulness.

Overall, kierugeiko remains a vital aspect of Zen spiritual practice, emphasizing mental training and the pursuit of inner stillness as pathways to awakening.